Banquet With The King

Thursday, March 15, 2018

Reward for Trusting the Unseen

All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. It is by his great mercy that we have been born again, because God raised Jesus Christ from the dead. Now we live with great expectation, and we have a priceless inheritance—an inheritance that is kept in heaven for you, pure and undefiled, beyond the reach of change and decay. And through your faith, God is protecting you by his power until you receive this salvation, which is ready to be revealed on the last day for all to see. So be truly glad. There is wonderful joy ahead, even though you have to endure many trials for a little while. These trials will show that your faith is genuine. It is being tested as fire tests and purifies gold—though your faith is far more precious than mere gold. So when your faith remains strong through many trials, it will bring you much praise and glory and honor on the day when Jesus Christ is revealed to the whole world. You love him even though you have never seen him. Though you do not see him now, you trust him; and you rejoice with a glorious, inexpressible joy. The reward for trusting him will be the salvation of your souls. 1 Peter 1:3-9

We are mid-way through this season of Lent. Do you feel that you are drawing closer to the Lord? Are you growing in your love and devotion for Jesus…and eternally more grateful for His ultimate sacrifice for you? Lent is a time for introspection and thus repentance and recommitment to the Lord.

A Pure Rose
Is it priceless?

This passage of scripture above is so encouraging. Though we are being tested…we have a pure, undefiled, priceless inheritance. Yes. Priceless. We couldn’t buy it if we tried. Christ paid the ultimate price with the sacrifice of His life on the cross. Nothing we can do or “pay” would ever be enough to get us into God’s Kingdom of heaven—that is our priceless inheritance.

For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 6:23

Allow your faith to become strong. Don’t give into temptation or fall away from God when trials seem tough. Hang in there and depend on the Lord. That will bring glory to Him…and according to Peter…praise, honor and glory to you when Jesus Christ is revealed to the world. Love God…Love Jesus with all your heart, soul, mind and strength. Even though you don’t see Him—He is real. Trust Him—even though you can’t see Him right now. Just rejoice and be glad—joyful because He is worth it. The reward of heaven will be worth the trials and struggles now. Don’t give up or give in. Stay strong in the Lord—even though you can’t see Him.

Prayer ~ Lord God, You made everything beautiful for its own time. You planted eternity in the human heart, but even so, people cannot see the whole scope of Your work from beginning to end. Ecclesiastes 3:11. May we feel Your love and protection in our lives—and be filled with joy in the anticipation of eternity with You.

Daily Bible Reading: March 15 – Deuteronomy 11-13

Happy Birthday, Kim

May you continue to be blessed

by our gracious Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ,

as you seek and serve Him!

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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Wednesday, March 14, 2018

Road Well Traveled

And a great road will go through that once deserted land. It will be named the Highway of Holiness. Evil-minded people will never travel on it. It will be only for those who walk in God's ways; fools will never walk there. Isaiah 35:8

My Ryrie Study Bible indicated that this chapter of Isaiah is describing the millennial kingdom—the Kingdom of the Lord when Jesus will reign on earth for 1000 years. Can we claim the promise of walking on the Highway of Holiness in God’s ways now? Whether this for the future or for now, it is never too early to walk in God’s ways. Consider the following verses:

Y

Gate at the Mt. of Beatitudes - Israel

ou can enter God's Kingdom only through the narrow gate. The highway to hell is broad, and its gate is wide for the many who choose that way. But the gateway to life is very narrow and the road is difficult, and only a few ever find it. Matthew 7:13-14

So think clearly and exercise self-control. Look forward to the gracious salvation that will come to you when Jesus Christ is revealed to the world. So you must live as God's obedient children. Don't slip back into your old ways of living to satisfy your own desires. You didn't know any better then. But now you must be holy in everything you do, just as God who chose you is holy. For the Scriptures say, "You must be holy because I am holy (see Lev. 11:44-45)." 1 Peter 1:13-16

Be holy. This action is for God’s own people…so where do you stand with the Lord? Do you believe in Jesus as your Savior?

Can we be holy on our own? No—only with God’s help—so pray. Pray that God would open your eyes and heart that you would live in a way that is pleasing…holy…to Him. Begin with confession, adoration, thanksgiving and humbly asking for His help in living and continuing to live a life of holiness. Blessing on you as you seek the Lord with all your heart, soul, mind and strength.

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus, I confess to you that I have not been seeking You whole heartedly—and now I want to live a life of holiness unto You. I want to be holy in everything I do…just as You are…just as our Heavenly Father is. I want to please You and walk in Your ways. I gratefully praise You for all You have done for me.

Daily Bible Reading: March 14 – Deuteronomy 8-10

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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Tuesday, March 13, 2018

Will I Be Raptured if I have a Critical Spirit?

You may think you can condemn such people, but you are just as bad, and you have no excuse! When you say they are wicked and should be punished, you are condemning yourself, for you who judge others do these very same things. Romans 2:1

Are you judgmental and prickly like a cactus?

Judgmental. That is what it means to have a critical spirit. Judging others—thinking my way is right. Someone has a short post on Facebook recently that said…Expect excellence, not perfection. Yes. I guess that I have been expecting perfection—but only Jesus is perfect. Even in myself I can’t attain perfection, so no wonder I sometimes feel defeated—judging myself, too.

I’m like that older brother in the story of the Prodigal. A little holier than thou attitude. Well, maybe a lot holier—like a Pharisee. Will that attitude separate me from God?

Do not judge others, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn others, or it will all come back against you. Forgive others, and you will be forgiven. Luke 6:37

Since you judge others for doing these things, why do you think you can avoid God's judgment when you do the same things? Romans 2:3

There it is… why do you think you can avoid God's judgment when you do the same things? It is not possible to avoid God’s judgment.

Therefore having overlooked the times of ignorance, God is now declaring to men that all people everywhere should repent, because He has fixed a day in which He will judge the world in righteousness through a Man whom He has appointed, having furnished proof to all men by raising Him from the dead. Acts 17:30-31 NASB

God has a fixed day…that no one except He knows when that day is. Does knowing the fact that everyone will be judged, change my attitude?

As David wrote…Have mercy on me, O God, because of your unfailing love. Because of your great compassion, blot out the stain of my sins. Wash me clean from my guilt. Purify me from my sin. For I recognize my rebellion; it haunts me day and night. Against you, and you alone, have I sinned; I have done what is evil in your sight. You will be proved right in what you say, and your judgment against me is just. Psalm 51:1-4

God’s judgment is against me. We need to live each day as if it were our last. I’d better choose right—get my attitude in order and not be judgmental. I don’t want to be left behind. How about you?

Prayer ~ Thank You, Father God for giving up Your Son, Jesus, as a sacrifice for my sin. I humbly stand before You…unworthy, but asking for Your forgiveness for my judgmental attitude, thoughts, words and actions. I am grateful for Your forgiveness. I praise You Jesus for Your obedience and love. Thank You—Thank You—Thank You.

Daily Bible Reading: March 13 – Deuteronomy 5-7

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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Monday, March 12, 2018

Walking in Darkness or Light?

This is the message we heard from Jesus and now declare to you: God is light, and there is no darkness in him at all. So we are lying if we say we have fellowship with God but go on living in spiritual darkness; we are not practicing the truth. But if we are living in the light, as God is in the light, then we have fellowship with each other, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, cleanses us from all sin. 1 John 1:5-7

Dogwood blossoms--representing Christ on the Cross.
Shining in the darkness.

Something about the Lenten journey—this time before Resurrection Sunday—seems to be a “walk.” Jesus was on a journey to the cross. We are on our own reflective, repentant and reconciliatory spiritual walk that takes us closer to or further away from our Savior and our Heavenly Father. The choice, as always, is ours. As John wrote here…God is light and in Him there is no darkness. Is the pathway on your trek flooded with light or are you wandering around in the dark? That should give you a good clue as to your relationship with God and with other people. In Him there is no darkness. The blood of Jesus cleanses us—takes away that darkness. Get ready for a brilliant experience as you once again…repent and reconcile your life with the Lord.

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus—cleanse my heart again and make it white as snow. Renew and refresh me once more with the Holy Spirit. I gratefully rejoice in Your love and all that You have done for me. Now I bask in Your light, Your love and grace, as I walk humbly along on the pathway back to the Father.

Daily Bible Reading: March 12 – Deuteronomy 3-4

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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Sunday, March 11, 2018

Walk in Obedience

And this is love: that we walk in obedience to his commands. As you have heard from the beginning, his command is that you walk in love. 2 John 1:6 NIV

One of my favorite trails near Goose Prairie, Washington.

Walk in obedience as you travel along your Lenten road or path. Where are you walking? It does matter where we go and it is imperative that we go in obedience to the Lord. God wants us to walk in love…and to be headed towards Him, not away from Him. Not every path will lead us to live, prosper and prolong our days here in God’s land…where we are until He returns or we die, but the choice is our—where we walk, with whom we walk and why we walk at all.

Walk in obedience to all that the LORD your God has commanded you, so that you may live and prosper and prolong your days in the land that you will possess. Deuteronomy 5:33 NIV

Blessed are all who fear the LORD, who walk in obedience to him. Psalm 128:1 NIV

The key word seems to be obedience. Obey is listed 338 times in the Bible (NLT). That is a word that Jesus was not only personally familiar with in His relationship to our Father, uses it to encourage those who follow Him. Obey…

Those who accept my commandments and obey them are the ones who love me. And because they love me, my Father will love them. And I will love them and reveal myself to each of them." John 14:21

How are you walking…where are you going…with whom do you walk? Do you walk in obedience?

Prayer ~ Lord, guide not only my footsteps, but also my thoughts, words and actions as I seek to walk in obedience to You, the Heavenly Father and the Holy Spirit.

Daily Bible Reading: March 11 – Deuteronomy 1-2

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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Saturday, March 10, 2018

Where Are You in Your Lenten Walk?

From then on Jesus began to tell his disciples plainly that it was necessary for him to go to Jerusalem, and that he would suffer many terrible things at the hands of the elders, the leading priests, and the teachers of religious law. He would be killed, but on the third day he would be raised from the dead. Matthew 16:21

Jesus knew where He was headed…to Jerusalem…to the cross. He knew the suffering He would have to endure to death. But He did it anyway. He did it for you and for me. He paid the ultimate sacrifice.

There is no greater love than to lay down one's life for one's friends. John 15:13

Yet, we are more than just friends with Jesus.

For all who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God. So you have not received a spirit that makes you fearful slaves. Instead, you received God's Spirit when he adopted you as his own children. Now we call him, "Abba, Father." For his Spirit joins with our spirit to affirm that we are God's children. And since we are his children, we are his heirs. In fact, together with Christ we are heirs of God's glory. But if we are to share his glory, we must also share his suffering. Romans 8:14-17

Family at the beach - more than friends with Jesus.

Adopted. We are sisters and brothers of Christ Jesus Himself. Family. Are you part of God’s family? Believe…and become one of God’s own children—and walk the path to the cross with Jesus and His followers this Lenten season.

Prayer ~ Jesus—I rejoice and praise You—for just as You told the woman at the well..."I am the resurrection and the life. Anyone who believes in me will live, even after dying." John 11:25. I believe. Open the eyes and hearts of those who hear of You and are hesitant or just don’t believe. Although we are told we share in Your suffering…we claim the promise that we may share in Your glory, too. Glory be to God the Father…and His plan for mankind.

Daily Bible Reading: March 10 – Numbers 35-36

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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Friday, March 9, 2018

Insight for Living

The instructions of the LORD are perfect, reviving the soul. The decrees of the LORD are trustworthy, making wise the simple. The commandments of the LORD are right, bringing joy to the heart. The commands of the LORD are clear, giving insight for living. Reverence for the LORD is pure, lasting forever. The laws of the LORD are true; each one is fair. They are more desirable than gold, even the finest gold. They are sweeter than honey, even honey dripping from the comb. They are a warning to your servant, a great reward for those who obey them. How can I know all the sins lurking in my heart? Cleanse me from these hidden faults. Keep your servant from deliberate sins! Don't let them control me. Then I will be free of guilt and innocent of great sin. May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing to you, O LORD, my rock and my redeemer. Psalm 19:7-14

Be Grateful.
Jesus fed 5,000 - but He gave His Life for All.
Mosaic near the Sea of Galilee.

The commandments of the Lord—The Ten Commandments and the guidelines for living as written in Leviticus and throughout the Bible—give instruction and insight for daily living…and the expectations of the Lord. Are they “fair?” That is a good question. They certainly let us know what is expected of us…as far as our relationships with God and with men are concerned. It all can be summed up as "'You must love the LORD your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your strength, and all your mind.' And, 'Love your neighbor as yourself.'" Luke 10:27. Those are the words of Jesus. Love God and love those around you. I’d say that is not only “fair” but also wise advice. If you want to get along with others in this world…it is best to start with God…not just being “good” but in being in a right relationship with Him. Love, respect, honor, praise, gratefulness. God the Father gave up His Son…that I might have salvation. During this Lenten time of reflection, repentance and reconciliation those key words direct my heart towards to my relationship—that deep rooted bond—with my God. I not only want to live right…and please Him…but serve and love Him with all my heart, soul, mind and strength.

Prayer ~ Lord, show me any hidden faults or bad attitudes in my heart and life that I may please and honor You. Then cleanse my heart, soul and mind with the blood of Jesus—that I may be as white as snow through and through—guilt free and innocent of sin. May His sacrifice not be in vain, nor taken lightly.

Daily Bible Reading: March 9 – Numbers 33-34

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table

I am doing a Clean Gut diet—so my feasting for the next three weeks is lean meat or fish (20%) and raw, steamed, stir fried or roasted fresh vegetables (80%). No sugars, no starches, no dairy. It doesn’t really cramp my style of eating much. I like fresh veggies and lean meat or fish. But rather than dwell on simple food preparation today I wanted to share with you a “recipe” that I recently came across again in an old Centennial Cookbook from the church I attended growing up. Is this a recipe for you…or for your children? Share it with your friends and family.

Recipe for Friendship

3 phone calls per week

2 cups kindness

1 letter a month […and special cards on birthdays]

4 Saturdays of shopping [or other mutually enjoyed activities, like visiting art galleries, kayaking or hiking]

Mix ingredients carefully; take turns stirring. Heat with hugs and lace with laughter. Sweeten to taste and sprinkle with smiles. Bake until memories turn golden brown.

(Originally contributed to the Cookbook by Evelyn Knecht Hardy […additions mine])

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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Thursday, March 8, 2018

Home for the Sun

The heavens proclaim the glory of God. The skies display his craftsmanship. Day after day they continue to speak; night after night they make him known. They speak without a sound or word; their voice is never heard. Yet their message has gone throughout the earth, and their words to all the world. God has made a home in the heavens for the sun. It bursts forth like a radiant bridegroom after his wedding. It rejoices like a great athlete eager to run the race. The sun rises at one end of the heavens and follows its course to the other end. Nothing can hide from its heat. Psalm 19:1-6

Shrub Steppe environment - Eastern Washington
From Badger Mountain looking to Rattlesnake Mt.

How can anyone not believe in God? Look at the sky. At night a zillion stars shine…then morning sunrise to evening moon rise. Awesome blue skies sometimes graced with puffy white clouds or those in a myriad of shades of gray. Without the sun we would be a frozen lump of…what? Ice. Crud. You name it…we’d be frozen. The sun is essential to life…and look at the variety of flora and fauna that are around us…no matter where we live. Even most of the desert or semi-desert regions have some sort of growth. We have an amazing group of plants and animals here in the area where I live, even with less than 10 inches of rain per year. God provides and an ecosystem thrives here. I know God is here…He is real…He is not dead.

Are you living a pure and holy life before the Lord? Remember your thoughts are the same as your actions to Him. Hold up the love and teaching of the Lord to all around you—let His light shine in and through you. No darkness in your life.

Are you holding onto a dark spot in your heart—a bitterness or disappointment?

No one lights a lamp and then hides it or puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where its light can be seen by all who enter the house. Luke 11:33

Jesus is my Savior—continuing to light up my world. Are you allowing Him to light up your world?

Prayer ~ Lord God, Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path. Psalm 119:105. You are my strength. You made my feet like hinds' feet, and you make me walk on my high places—safely. Habakkuk 3:19 NASB. I praise You, Oh Lord, the light of my heart and my life.

Daily Bible Reading: March 8 – Numbers 31-32

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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Wednesday, March 7, 2018

Don’t Be Deceived

For I have kept the ways of the LORD; I have not turned from my God to follow evil. I have followed all His regulations; I have never abandoned His decrees. I am blameless before God; I have kept myself from sin. The LORD rewarded me for doing right. He has seen my innocence. 2 Samuel 22:22-25

Evil is from the devil. He’s an enemy of Jesus and an enemy of ours—but Jesus will defeat him. He actually already has defeated him. After His baptism, Jesus went into the desert for forty days. There the devil tempted Him—but didn’t deceive Him. Be careful…don’t be misled or misinformed—deceived. Whether it is serving an idol…or being taught something that is not Biblical—don’t be taken in by false doctrine.

But be careful. Don't let your heart be deceived so that you turn away from the LORD and serve and worship other gods. Deuteronomy 11:16.

Jesus spoke to His disciples about conditions in the end times warning them…and us… not to be deceived.

Later, Jesus sat on the Mount of Olives. His disciples came to him privately and said, "Tell us, when will all this happen? What sign will signal your return and the end of the world?" Jesus told them, "Don't let anyone mislead you, for many will come in my name, claiming, 'I am the Messiah.' They will deceive many. And you will hear of wars and threats of wars, but don't panic. Yes, these things must take place, but the end won't follow immediately. Nation will go to war against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be famines and earthquakes in many parts of the world. But all this is only the first of the birth pains, with more to come. Matthew 24:3-8

When someone is talking about End Times, Rapture and the Day of the Lord—be sure to read your Bible carefully and don’t be deceived. Jesus journey to the Cross took Him to the Cross for your sin and for mine. We are blameless only because of Jesus. His return for His church will be a glorious day for believers.

Now, dear brothers and sisters, let us clarify some things about the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and how we will be gathered to meet him. Don't be so easily shaken or alarmed by those who say that the day of the Lord has already begun. Don't believe them, even if they claim to have had a spiritual vision, a revelation, or a letter supposedly from us. Don't be fooled by what they say. For that day will not come until there is a great rebellion against God and the man of lawlessness is revealed—the one who brings destruction. He will exalt himself and defy everything that people call god and every object of worship. He will even sit in the temple of God, claiming that he himself is God. 2 Thessalonians 2:1-4.

David had his sins…but he repented and followed God’s ways. He was a good example to us as he sought the Lord God and stood blameless before Him. Each day…and especially during this Lenten season can we live lives holy before the Lord? Only in His grace.

Prayer ~ Lord God, may we be like David—seeking Your heart, Your ways and living to please You. Open our eyes that we would not be deceived.

(Revised from March 7, 2017 Banquet With The King blog)

Daily Bible Reading: March 7 – Numbers 28-30

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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Tuesday, March 6, 2018

Walk With The Lord

But be very careful to obey all the commands and the instructions that Moses gave to you. Love the LORD your God, walk in all his ways, obey his commands, hold firmly to him, and serve him with all your heart and all your soul. Joshua 22:5

Walk in God’s ways and obey His commands. Is there a difference between walking like someone walks…their ways…and walking with them? I think there is a difference. If you just walk the way someone…like God…wants you to walk and live—then you are going through the motions of pleasing them—though not necessarily in their presence. But if you walk with them…with God…then you are “in step” and in His presence, thus doing more than following. You are in sync…becoming part of Him. Walking in His presence (as in Psalm 56) is what Enoch did…and what Adam and Eve probably experienced before their rebellion.

So obey the commands of the LORD your God by walking in his ways and fearing him. Deuteronomy 8:6

I praise God for what he has promised; yes, I praise the LORD for what he has promised. I trust in God, so why should I be afraid? What can mere mortals do to me? I will fulfill my vows to you, O God, and will offer a sacrifice of thanks for your help. For you have rescued me from death; you have kept my feet from slipping. So now I can walk in your presence, O God, in your life-giving light. Psalm 56:10-13

Enoch lived 365 years, walking in close fellowship with God. Then one day he disappeared, because God took him. Genesis 5:23-24

He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you But to do justice, to love kindness, And to walk humbly with your God? Micah 6:8 NASB

Enoch walked in fellowship with God. How would you describe your “walk” with God? During this time of Lent is your walk away from or towards your Heavenly Father? I am running to His arms.

Prayer ~ Lord God, I choose to walk humbly with You…beside You. With Your help I will be strong and courageous! I will not be afraid or panic before any adversaries. For You my LORD God will personally go ahead of me. You have promised that will You will neither fail nor abandon me. Deuteronomy 31:6

Daily Bible Reading: March 6 – Numbers 26-27

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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Monday, March 5, 2018

Are You Doing What God Wants You to Do?

New Testament:

Jesus replied, "'You must love the LORD your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind.'" Matthew 22:37

Old Testament:

And you must love the LORD your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your strength. Deuteronomy 6:5

Are you like the butterfly...flitting from plant to plant?
Or are you seeking God and what He wants you to do?

Are you doing what God wants you to do? You might just ask…what is it that God wants me to do? How do I show “Loving the Lord”?

Serve only the LORD your God and fear him alone. Obey his commands, listen to his voice, and cling to him. Deuteronomy 13:4

He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you But to do justice, to love kindness, And to walk humbly with your God? Micah 6:8 NASB

[From the story of the Good Samaritan] And he (the lawyer) said, "He (the Good Samaritan) who showed mercy on him." Then Jesus said to him, "Go and do likewise." Luke 10:37 NKJV

But do not let this one fact escape your notice, beloved, that with the Lord one day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years like one day. The Lord is not slow about His promise, as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing for any to perish but for all to come to repentance. 2 Peter 3:8-9 NASB

Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Matthew 28:19

God blesses the one who reads the words of this prophecy to the church, and he blesses all who listen to its message and obey what it says, for the time is near. Revelation 1:3

It is time…for the time is near. There is no better time than right now…to listen and obey. Repent. Repentance and returning to the Lord is what Lent is about. Focus on Jesus and what He has done for you—that will bring you to turn to Him. Which part are you having trouble doing…listening… obeying…or repenting? I think the key is found in Micah 6:8…walk humbly. If we walk with God…putting Him first and doing things His way then all these other things will fall into place…listen, obey, repent…and we’ll make disciples—bring others to the Lord—that none would perish. I’m sure that is your heart’s desire…that no one would perish. That is what I want…for heaven to be full…and no more people be headed for hell—that lake of fire created for the Devil.

Prayer ~ Lord God, thank you for your patience that no one would perish. I couldn’t bear to think that someone I know would actually burn in hell because I didn’t tell them about You. Time is near. Help me to listen, obey and share You with others…to do what You want me to do.

Daily Bible Reading: March 5 – Numbers 23-25

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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Sunday, March 4, 2018

Focus and Think

And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. Philippians 4:8

Are you floating off into the sunrise...?
Or are you focusing on God and thinking praises?
Can you do both?

Think. Thinking is a good thing, usually. Our minds keep on working all the time we’re awake and actually while we sleep, too. It is up to us to control what we think about. To be positive and productive we need to think about good stuff and not to dwell on the bad things in life. Jesus challenged people to “think.” Here are some examples:

- Do not think that I came to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I did not come to abolish but to fulfill. Matthew 5:17

- Do not think that I came to bring peace on the earth; I did not come to bring peace, but a sword. Matthew 10:34

- What do you think? If any man has a hundred sheep, and one of them has gone astray, does he not leave the ninety-nine on the mountains and go and search for the one that is straying? Matthew 18:12

- But what do you think? A man had two sons, and he came to the first and said, 'Son, go work today in the vineyard.' Matthew 21:28 (Read the passage for the rest of the story.)

- What do you think about the Christ, whose son is He?" They said to Him, "The son of David." Matthew 22: 42 (What do you think about their answer?)

- For this reason you also must be ready; for the Son of Man is coming at an hour when you do not think He will. Matthew 24:44

From the Old Testament comes a scripture that echoes Jesus’ words to the Pharisees.

Think again, you fools! When will you finally catch on? Psalm 94:8

Jesus wants us to think about Him. He wants us to reason and consider…not just be entertained by stuff around us and to wander aimlessly about. Paul directed the people of Corinth to give up childish ways.

When I was a child, I used to speak like a child, think like a child, reason like a child; when I became a man, I did away with childish things 1 Corinthians 13:11.

That is where we’re at…put away kid stuff and concentrate, think, on the important things of life, like pleasing God and training your children in the right way to live. James writes a challenge in James 4:5…Or do you think that the Scripture speaks to no purpose: "He jealously desires the Spirit which He has made to dwell in us"? James 4:5

Listen up and think.

Prayer ~ Lord God, help us to focus on You and to think. To think good thoughts, things that are…true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable.

(Revised from December 16, 2013 Banquet With The King blog)

Daily Bible Reading: March 4 – Numbers 21-22

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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Saturday, March 3, 2018

Don’t Be Shaken

A spiritual vision? Is that from the Holy Spirit? Test it before you believe it.

Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world. By this you know the Spirit of God: every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God; and every spirit that does not confess Jesus is not from God; this is the spirit of the antichrist, of which you have heard that it is coming, and now it is already in the world. 1 John 4:1-3.

There is so much hype—almost to the point of hysteria--on YouTube and in Christian circles now about the Lord’s eminent return. Be careful. Does the person prophesying believe in Jesus as their Savior? That alone does not give them the truth about Jesus. Read your Bible—really study it for yourself. Consider Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 24, including the following verse concerning His return. But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but the Father alone. Matthew 24:36. The Father alone knows. We just have to trust Him. No one knows or can tell us…the rapture will be with the next blood moon…or at the next Feast of Tabernacles. We are told by Jesus to be ready. For this reason you also must be ready; for the Son of Man is coming at an hour when you do not think He will. Matthew 24:44.

What will you be doing when Jesus returns? That thought has got me to thinking that I need to be sure that whatever I’m doing, it is honorable—to do only things that are worthy of the Lord—continually.

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, guide my heart, thoughts, mind and words that whatever I think, say and do is honorable in Your sight—continually pleasing to You, my God, my Lord, my Savior.

(From June 16, 2015 Banquet With The King blog)

Daily Bible Reading: March 3 – Numbers 18-20

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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Friday, March 2, 2018

What Really Matters

I pray that your love will overflow more and more, and that you will keep on growing in knowledge and understanding. For I want you to understand what really matters, so that you may live pure and blameless lives until the day of Christ's return. May you always be filled with the fruit of your salvation--the righteous character produced in your life by Jesus Christ--for this will bring much glory and praise to God. Philippians 1:9-11

Sheep in Israel

Are you looking for lost sheep...or are you one?

Each day it is important to be doing what really matters. Doing the things that matter to God should make a difference in our lives…if we care about pleasing God. I do. I want to live to please Him. Over a lifetime what does it really matter how many movies I’ve watched, sporting events I’ve attended, or how many designer clothes I've accumulated. Does it matter? Not really. Those aren’t things I’ll be taking to heaven…or even sharing with others here. Jesus told us to…Seek first His righteousness…. Initially when He sent out His disciples He gave them the commission…

Jesus sent out the twelve apostles with these instructions: "Don't go to the Gentiles or the Samaritans, but only to the people of Israel--God's lost sheep. Go and announce to them that the Kingdom of Heaven is near. Heal the sick, raise the dead, cure those with leprosy, and cast out demons. Give as freely as you have received! Matthew 10:5-8

So we too are to “go to the lost sheep” and encourage them with the hope of Jesus. That is what really matters. The Kingdom of Heaven is near.

The Old Testament gives a prophetic scripture in Ezekiel.

For thus says the Lord GOD, "Behold, I Myself will search for My sheep and seek them out. "As a shepherd cares for his herd in the day when he is among his scattered sheep, so I will care for My sheep and will deliver them from all the places to which they were scattered on a cloudy and gloomy day. "I will bring them out from the peoples and gather them from the countries and bring them to their own land; and I will feed them on the mountains of Israel, by the streams, and in all the inhabited places of the land. "I will feed them in a good pasture, and their grazing ground will be on the mountain heights of Israel. There they will lie down on good grazing ground and feed in rich pasture on the mountains of Israel. "I will feed My flock and I will lead them to rest," declares the Lord GOD. "I will seek the lost, bring back the scattered, bind up the broken and strengthen the sick; but the fat and the strong I will destroy. I will feed them with judgment.” Ezekiel 34:11-16 NASB

What really matters to you?

Prayer ~ Lord, may I always seek first Your Kingdom and Your righteousness. That is what really matters to me.

Daily Bible Reading: March 2 – Numbers 16-17

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table

As usual every Friday is Feast Day—Feasting at the King’s Table. We can’t live on just spiritual food …nor can we live on bread alone. If we are sick…like I am right now with a cold…it is good to feed that cold…and starve a fever.

Here’s a sore throat remedy that my daughter sent to me. It does help miraculously…and with a reduced cough and throat irritation, I actually feel like eating.

All Natural Throat Soothing Syrup

To one teaspoon of honey add one drop each of Orange, Lemon, Frankincense and Peppermint Essential Oils. I stirred it up with a toothpick and initially divided it between my husband and me. Take as needed.

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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Thursday, March 1, 2018

Waiting…Hopefully

And we believers also groan, even though we have the Holy Spirit within us as a foretaste of future glory, for we long for our bodies to be released from sin and suffering. We, too, wait with eager hope for the day when God will give us our full rights as his adopted children, including the new bodies he has promised us. Romans 8:23

Hope. We long for the day when Christ returns…calls us home. Hopefully that will be in the Rapture…soon. But the key in waiting is to continue to have HOPE…and patience. God’s timing is not our timing. I remember reading The Late Great Planet Earth in the early 1970’s and I was so sure that Christ would return in my lifetime. Funny thing is…lots of people have had that same hope for centuries. But with the nation of Israel back in the land of Palestine…the Promised Land…things are prophetically coming together for Christ’s return. I hopefully wait and watch the sky…listening for that call of the shofar horn. The salvation is for the Jews…but God has blessed the Gentiles, too. I give glory to God for that…for His love and the hope that He provides. Be encouraged and encourage others is the message that we read in the New Testament.

Such things were written in the Scriptures long ago to teach us. And the Scriptures give us hope and encouragement as we wait patiently for God's promises to be fulfilled. ... Therefore, accept each other just as Christ has accepted you so that God will be given glory. Remember that Christ came as a servant to the Jews to show that God is true to the promises he made to their ancestors. He also came so that the Gentiles might give glory to God for his mercies to them. That is what the psalmist meant when he wrote: "For this, I will praise you among the Gentiles; I will sing praises to your name." Romans 15:4, 7-9

Hope is part of the Old Testament as well.

Let all that I am wait quietly before God, for my hope is in him. Psalm 62:5

And so we wait…patiently and quietly for our Savior to call us home. Are you feeling hopeful? Is Jesus your Messiah? Trust in Him.

Prayer ~ I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13.

Daily Bible Reading: March 1 – Numbers 14-15; Psalm 90

Purium - What does this Jewish Holiday mean to you?

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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