Sleeping or Dead?

A man named Lazarus was sick. He lived in Bethany with his sisters, Mary and Martha. This is the Mary who later poured the expensive perfume on the Lord's feet and wiped them with her hair. Her brother, Lazarus, was sick. So the two sisters sent a message to Jesus telling him, "Lord, your dear friend is very sick." But when Jesus heard about it he said, "Lazarus's sickness will not end in death. No, it happened for the glory of God so that the Son of God will receive glory from this." ... Then he said, "Our friend Lazarus has fallen asleep, but now I will go and wake him up." The disciples said, "Lord, if he is sleeping, he will soon get better!" They thought Jesus meant Lazarus was simply sleeping, but Jesus meant Lazarus had died. So he told them plainly, "Lazarus is dead. And for your sakes, I'm glad I wasn't there, for now you will really believe. Come, let's go see him." ... Jesus told her, "I am the resurrection and the life. Anyone who believes in me will live, even after dying. Everyone who lives in me and believes in me will never ever die. Do you believe this, Martha?" "Yes, Lord," she told him. "I have always believed you are the Messiah, the Son of God, the one who has come into the world from God." John 11:1-4, 11-15, 25-27

Our friend is asleep—no, actually he is dead. People don’t often refer to dead as asleep, but Jesus did. Consider the healing of the daughter of Jairus, a synagogue leader as recorded in Matthew 9, Mark 5, and Luke 8.

The house was filled with people weeping and wailing, but he (Jesus) said, "Stop the weeping! She isn't dead; she's only asleep." But the crowd laughed at him because they all knew she had died. Then Jesus took her by the hand and said in a loud voice, "My child, get up!" And at that moment her life returned, and she immediately stood up! Then Jesus told them to give her something to eat. Luke 8:52-55

New Life...like a butterfly.
Butterfly Wonderland in Scottsdale, AZ

Lazarus and his sisters were dear friends of Jesus. He dined, relaxed and taught in their home. Jesus was told that Lazarus was sick…and then died, but He already knew. He knew that God would use this for His glory. Jesus wept over His friend…and then called him out of the grave. Just think about the people that believed in Jesus as the Messiah after they witnesses the miracle of Lazarus’ resurrection. It took that for some people to believe—even His disciples. He said… And for your sakes, I'm glad I wasn't there, for now you will really believe. His friends believed—really believed—and so did the many mourners who were gathered there to wail and cry along with Martha and Mary. What will it take for you and your friends to believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God? Will you need to see someone raised from the dead? If you wait until you are the one who is to be resurrected, it will be too late. Trust in the Lord…and believe. Today.

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus—I believe you are the Messiah, the Son of God, the one who has come into the world from God. You are the resurrection and the life. Anyone who believes in You will live, even after dying. Everyone who lives in You and believes in You will never ever die.

Daily Bible Reading: Luke 23; John 18-19

Only 42 days until Christmas

© 2018 Text and Photos by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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Don’t Be Afraid of...Death

Dear friends, don't be afraid of those who want to kill your body; they cannot do any more to you after that. But I'll tell you whom to fear. Fear God, who has the power to kill you and then throw you into hell. Yes, he's the one to fear. Luke 12:4-5

Jesus called His disciples "friends" and encouraged them to have no fear of their enemies--but to fear God--respect Him because He has the ultimate power on where each person will spend eternity...heaven or hell. 

Fear. Of whom or what are you afraid? Do you have enemies--maybe someone you know wants to harm you? Have you experienced the fear of the Lord? Luke tells us to...fear God.  What does that mean. I've had this very discussion with friends and we agreed that to Fear God is to respect Him--give Him reverence and honor. There is an element of fear--as in being afraid...but it depends on the passage in which it is used.
     So you shall not wrong one another, but you shall fear your God; for I am the LORD your God. - Leviticus 25:17 NASB.

Friends. How do you talk with your friends about fear? Are you afraid of those who could kill you...or are you afraid of death itself? Some people are just terrified of death. Many who are elderly sit in nursing or assisted living homes and tremble at the thought of death and leaving their loved ones behind. Not me...I am ready--spiritually at least--for Christ to take me to heaven. There are lots of stuff I need to get rid of and downsize until that time of home going arrives. For now...I respect God--the creator of all things--and have learned to focus on Him, respectfully. How about you? 

On this day remembering what American soldiers have given to our nation--pause and reflect on the  how God has lead our nation and provided protection though our Armed Forces. Put on your spiritual armor.

Today is the celebration of Veterans’Day. 

Put on the Helmet of Salvation

 Prayer ~ Jesus, We know that You love us. God loved us so much that He sent You, His one and only Son, that whoever believes in You will have eternal life. God sent You into the world not to judge the world, but to save the world through You. (From John 3:16-17.) Thank You, Jesus, for Your love and for Your obedience to the Father.

Daily Bible Reading: Matthew 27; Mark 15

© 2018 Text and Photos by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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Life is Not Measured by How Much You Own

Then someone called from the crowd, "Teacher, please tell my brother to divide our father's estate with me." Jesus replied, "Friend, who made me a judge over you to decide such things as that?" Then he said, "Beware! Guard against every kind of greed. Life is not measured by how much you own." Luke 12:13-15

Can you imagine Jesus standing near the Temple and the crowd becoming larger and larger? Everyone wanting to see Jesus…and to hear what He had to say.

Meanwhile, the crowds grew until thousands were milling about and stepping on each other. Jesus turned first to his disciples and warned them, "Beware of the yeast of the Pharisees--their hypocrisy. Luke 12:1

He turned to His disciples--first. He wasn't speaking to the whole crowd--but they were listening. Do not to be hypocrites. Live truth throughout your life--don't hide anything. Be honest. He continues calling His disciples "friends" and encouraging them to have no fear of their enemies--but to fear God --respect Him because He has the ultimate power on where each person will spend eternity...heaven or hell. 

     Dear friends, don't be afraid of those who want to kill your body; they cannot do any more to you after that. But I'll tell you whom to fear. Fear God, who has the power to kill you and then throw you into hell. Yes, he's the one to fear. Luke 12:4-5.

Don't Judge the Rooster
Rooster outside Israel Thrift Shop.
Even Israel has Thrift Shops!

The crowd of thousands of people were yelling at Jesus--recognizing His power over sickness and even family problems. He singled out one young man's request...and called him "friend." Beware against greed. Any form of greed. What do you collect or accumulate? Will those things just go to a Thrift Store one day?

Are "things" more important to you than relationships with other people...or with God? Beware!

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus—I chose You. I will serve You will all of my heart, mind, soul and strength. I pray that all that I think, say and do will bring You honor and glory. 

Daily Bible Reading: John 14-17

© 2018 Text and Photos by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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Who is at the Door?

Look! I stand at the door and knock. If you hear my voice and open the door, I will come in, and we will share a meal together as friends. Revelation 3:20

No Doorknob...Really?!

My paternal grandparents had a picture of this scripture hanging on the wall in their living room. It wasn't the words of the scripture but a copy of a painting that was  done by Warner Sallman. You are probably familiar with the painting that shows Jesus standing at a large arched wooden door, knocking. There was also the same painting hanging on the wall of the entry at our church—so I frequently viewed this image growing up. I was always amazed that there was no doorknob. How was Jesus to open the door? The title of the painting is "Jesus Knocking at Heart's Door" so that isn't the door to someone's home, but the door to their very heart--their soul. 

What an honor to have Jesus knock at the door to your heart--and for you to ask Him to come in. He's promised that He will come in...if asked...and dine with you. Share a meal together as friends. You usually only share a meal with someone you like...or are somehow obligated to do so. With whom are you sharing your life...your hopes and dreams...your food and fellowship?

Prayer ~ Dear Jesus, open my ears and eyes to Your words…that I would listen and obey. Thank You for standing at the door of my heart and life--not forcing Yourself on me...but giving me the opportunity to invite You into my heart and life. Come in Lord Jesus. May we feast together on Your words. 

Daily Bible Reading: Luke 22; John 13

HAPPY BIRTHDAY - Brother JOE

© 2018 Text and Photos by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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Nothing to Eat

A friend of mine has just arrived for a visit, and I have nothing for him to eat. Luke 11:6

Sorry, friend…I have no food for you. Oh my…no food in the house. I always have something on hand in the freezer or pantry shelf…but it may take a while to prepare. At the time that Jesus spoke this parable they didn’t have canned foods or refrigeration—so except for dried foods or making foods from scratch which both take a while to prepare—this fellow may literally have had nothing to serve his friend who arrived in the middle of the night for a visit. You would think that the host would have known his friend was coming and been prepared, but no cell phones then…and that donkey may have traveled faster than expected. I don’t think they had speed limits on their dusty paths.

What would you do if you had friends come to visit and you didn’t have food prepared to serve them? Would you head for the closest Denny’s restaurant or go to your neighbor and ask for some food? what if your neighbor had no food? Maybe you need to take some food to that neighbor?

Do you have spiritual food ready for your friends and family? What verse or scripture passage would your “serve” or share that could encourage them? We should be prepared with at least bread or cheese and crackers to serve our guests—no matter when they arrive. Just the same…we need to be prepared…be ready. I’m not a preacher, but I consider this a good family verse…

Preach the word of God. Be prepared, whether the time is favorable or not. Patiently correct, rebuke, and encourage your people with good teaching. 2 Timothy 4:2

Peter goes beyond just telling us just to be ready with God’s word…but how to do it.

Now, who will want to harm you if you are eager to do good? But even if you suffer for doing what is right, God will reward you for it. So don't worry or be afraid of their threats. Instead, you must worship Christ as Lord of your life. And if someone asks about your Christian hope, always be ready to explain it. But do this in a gentle and respectful way. Keep your conscience clear. Then if people speak against you, they will be ashamed when they see what a good life you live because you belong to Christ. Remember, it is better to suffer for doing good, if that is what God wants, than to suffer for doing wrong! 1 Peter 3:13-17

So—get some food ready. Maybe have some bread, fruit and veggies on hand so that you can sit down with your friends and share something from your fridge and your faith.

Prayer ~ Lord…We will be glad and rejoice, and give You honor. When the time comes for the wedding feast of the Lamb, Your bride, the church will be prepared. Revelation 19:7. We know that when it comes time for the wedding feast You won’t have to go to neighbors begging for food to feed Your guests. You are always prepare—the source of all good foods.

Daily Bible Reading: Matthew 25; Mark 14

Time to serve up some fresh rolls.

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table

There are so many diets out there. So much food…so little time…and a moment on the lips—a lifetime on the hips. So what do we do? Although Jesus ate whole grain breads, not everyone’s body digests, assimilates and utilized the whole grains of today. Then too…DIET is such an ugly word. I prefer eating plan or routine. A variety of foods, including grains is important. Here is a favorite bread recipe for rolls that only takes an hour to prepare. Maybe you can snack on fresh fruits and veggies with your friends as the rolls rise and bake. It is a versatile dough that can be used for runzas too. 

60 Minute Dinner Rolls

2 pkgs Active quick-rise dry yeast
3 Tbsp sugar or honey
1 tsp. salt
1/2 c. powdered milk (optional)
1 1/2 c. hot tap water

2 Tbsp softened butter, at room temperature
4 to 4 1/2 c. unsifted flour (can use half wheat and half white or a gluten free blend)

Thoroughly mix 1 cup flour and dry ingredients. Gradually add water and butter to dry ingredients and beat 2 minutes, scraping bowl occasionally. Add remaining flour and beat to make soft dough. Place in greased bowl, cover and rise 15 minutes. Turn out onto floured board. Knead about 5 minutes, until not sticky. Shape dough and place on greased baking sheet.

Cover and let rise again for about 15 minutes. Bake 400 degree oven about 12 minutes (depends on the size of the rolls).                                       Makes 16-20 rolls.

© 2018 Text and Photos by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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Who Are Your Friends?

After John's disciples left, Jesus began talking about him to the crowds. "What kind of man did you go into the wilderness to see? Was he a weak reed, swayed by every breath of wind? Or were you expecting to see a man dressed in expensive clothes? No, people who wear beautiful clothes and live in luxury are found in palaces. Were you looking for a prophet? Yes, and he is more than a prophet. ... I tell you, of all who have ever lived, none is greater than John. Yet even the least person in the Kingdom of God is greater than he is!" ... For John the Baptist didn't spend his time eating bread or drinking wine, and you say, 'He's possessed by a demon.' The Son of Man, on the other hand, feasts and drinks, and you say, 'He's a glutton and a drunkard, and a friend of tax collectors and other sinners!' But wisdom is shown to be right by the lives of those who follow it." Luke 7:24-26, 28, 33-35

Will people see you as a Daisy or as a Cornflower?

We are known by our friends. People judge us…right or wrong…with whom we keep company. We become like those we “hang out” with. Hasn’t that always been the warning…“Be careful who you become friends with?” Wise people choose wise friends—or we can assume they win “wise friends” and conversely, those with wild friends will be “wild” as described in Proverbs…

The seeds of good deeds become a tree of life; a wise person wins friends. Proverbs 11:30

Young people who obey the law are wise; those with wild friends bring shame to their parents. Proverbs 28:7

Do you want to be known as “good” or “evil?”

Dear friend, don't let this bad example influence you. Follow only what is good. Remember that those who do good prove that they are God's children, and those who do evil prove that they do not know God. 3 John 1:11

The Pharisees thought Jesus was a friend of tax collectors and other sinners. Just because He spent time with those types of people He was judged to be like them. Who do people think of as your “friends” and are you considered like them? Would you consider becoming a friend to someone thought to be a cheat…as the tax collectors were judged? How about being a friend to sinners…or homeless? Could you do that? What would God think of you if you reached out to His children who are less fortunate than you?

  

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus, I know You have no greater joy than to hear that Your children are following the truth. 3 John 1:4. Help me to please You as I choose to be a friend and help others as You would help them.

Daily Bible Reading: Matthew 25

© 2018 Text and Photos by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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What Will We Get?

Harvest the grapes.
First or last...What will we get?

"For the Kingdom of Heaven is like the landowner who went out early one morning to hire workers for his vineyard. He agreed to pay the normal daily wage and sent them out to work. ... When they received their pay, they protested to the owner.... He answered one of them, 'Friend, I haven't been unfair! Didn't you agree to work all day for the usual wage? ... So those who are last now will be first then, and those who are first will be last." Matthew 20:1-2, 11, 13, 16 (Underlined for emphasis)

The Kingdom of Heaven is like…Jesus told many parables recorded in Matthew, Mark, and Luke that give us a glimpse of what heaven will be like…an analogy for us to seek some truth with which to apply to our lives. Is it important to you if you should be last or first? Maybe not but in this parable about the landowner I think that Jesus is telling us that no matter where are in life when we come to believe in Him…when we come into the Kingdom that we need to serve…work for Him…the same as everyone else and we will be rewarded the same.

When Jesus told this parable He was responding to a question from Peter … Then Peter said to him, "We've given up everything to follow you. What will we get?" Matthew 19:27. Jesus repeats Himself…

But many who are the greatest now will be least important then, and those who seem least important now will be the greatest then. Matthew 19:30

"So those who are last now will be first then, and those who are first will be last."  Matthew 20: 16

What will we get?  That is always the big question. What is in this for me? The first workers expected more than the last workers, but Jesus, addressing the one unhappy worker as Friend told him that he would get what was fair. So we too can only expect that…whatever is fair. What do we deserve? A scolding…or a kick in the pants…how about being hung on a cross? That is what we deserve. But Jesus, addressing us as Friend is willing to give us something we don’t deserve—eternal life. He paid the price. In this parable He was only asking for willing service in His vineyard. Don’t be greedy and wanting more. What do you want…what will you get?

Prayer ~ Lord God—Thank You for not giving me what I deserve…but what You want to give. I humbly ask for Your forgiveness for my greedy attitude…wanting what I didn’t earn. Pour out Your love and mercy on me as I live in Your Kingdom…here and now. May my service to You make your harvest more abundant.

Daily Bible Reading: Matthew 24

© 2018 Text and Photos by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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Do You Have the Right Clothes?

Jesus also told them other parables. He said, "The Kingdom of Heaven can be illustrated by the story of a king who prepared a great wedding feast for his son. When the banquet was ready, he sent his servants to notify those who were invited. But they all refused to come! … 'Now go out to the street corners and invite everyone you see.' So the servants brought in everyone they could find, good and bad alike, and the banquet hall was filled with guests. But when the king came in to meet the guests, he noticed a man who wasn't wearing the proper clothes for a wedding. 'Friend,' he asked, 'how is it that you are here without wedding clothes?' But the man had no reply. Then the king said to his aides, 'Bind his hands and feet and throw him into the outer darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.' For many are called, but few are chosen." Matthew 22:1-3, 9-14

Pure white robe.
Does it fit you?

The right clothes. It was a custom to in Biblical times in Israel to give wedding guests the proper clothes to wear to a wedding banquet. This banquet was held at the groom’s parents’ home and special wedding garments had to be worn. This passage tells us that the groom’s father, the king, (that would be analogous to God the Father) confronted a man who wasn’t wearing the wedding clothes that had been provided. To me that means that man snuck in and wasn’t really a guest—and he didn’t know the custom. The Father sent that man out—out into the darkness—cast him into hell. That is a place that none of us want to go. We can’t sneak into Heaven…into the Banquet with the King.  

In Revelation John recorded his view into Heaven where he saw people clothed in white robes.

After this I saw a vast crowd, too great to count, from every nation and tribe and people and language, standing in front of the throne and before the Lamb. They were clothed in white robes and held palm branches in their hands. Revelation 7:9

It goes on to explain that this crowd is made up of people who went through the great Tribulation. Does that include us? We can’t claim to belong to that group right now. We don’t know what lies ahead of us. We know that if we believe in Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior, as part of the church, the bride of Christ, we can look forward to a heavenly feast.

Then I heard again what sounded like the shout of a vast crowd or the roar of mighty ocean waves or the crash of loud thunder: "Praise the LORD! For the Lord our God, the Almighty, reigns. Let us be glad and rejoice, and let us give honor to him. For the time has come for the wedding feast of the Lamb, and his bride has prepared herself. She has been given the finest of pure white linen to wear." For the fine linen represents the good deeds of God's holy people. Revelation 19:6-8

So, believing Christians, go out and do your good deeds so you will be clothed in fine linen at the great Wedding Feast. I know I want to be there—clothed in white. How about you?

Prayer ~ Dear Jesus—Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. Thank you for being that ultimate sacrifice for us. Let us be glad and rejoice, and let us give honor to You, Lord. For as the time is coming for the wedding feast of the Lamb, prepared us to be Your bride. Revelation 19:7

Daily Bible Reading: Mark 13

© 2018 Text and Photos by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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Who Do You Trust?

Beware of your neighbor! Don't even trust your brother! For brother takes advantage of brother, and friend slanders friend. Jeremiah 9:4

Don't trust anyone—not your best friend or even your wife! Micah 7:5

Look at the scripture in context. In both passages God is grieving, through His prophets, over the sin of the people of Israel.

Trust. Don’t trust anyone? That is hard to do without being paranoid…shifty eyed…and living in fear. The best place to put our trust is in the Lord. Even friends may fail us—turning their backs on us…rejecting or abandoning us—but the Lord has promised to never leave us or forsake us. Trust Him. There may be times when we might feel abandoned or rejected by the Lord…with unanswered prayers, but still we need to trust Him. There are lots of people who say they don’t believe in God because their prayers go unanswered. Why is that? The power of prayer is a mystery. Keep praying and trusting.

The LORD is my strength and shield. I trust him with all my heart. He helps me, and my heart is filled with joy. I burst out in songs of thanksgiving. Psalm 28:7

Commit everything you do to the LORD. Trust him, and he will help you. Psalm 37:5

But when I am afraid, I will put my trust in you. Psalm 56:3

It is better to take refuge in the LORD than to trust in people. Psalm 118:8

Trust in the LORD with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take. Proverbs 3:5-6

Maybe you even feel that God is punishing you for some action or sin that you know you committed of which God doesn’t approve.

My child, don't reject the LORD's discipline, and don't be upset when he corrects you. For the LORD corrects those he loves, just as a father corrects a child in whom he delights. Proverbs 3:11-12

Feel loved…not rejected? That takes an act of faith…and trust.

Lighting the way to safety along the Maine coast.
Let Jesus light your way.

Words of encouragement follow the passage from Micah above.

As for me, I look to the LORD for help. I wait confidently for God to save me, and my God will certainly hear me. Do not gloat over me, my enemies! For though I fall, I will rise again. Though I sit in darkness, the LORD will be my light. I will be patient as the LORD punishes me, for I have sinned against him. But after that, he will take up my case and give me justice for all I have suffered from my enemies. The LORD will bring me into the light, and I will see his righteousness. Micah 7:7-9

The Lord gives us light. Jesus IS the light.

Jesus spoke to the people once more and said, "I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won't have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life." John 8:12

Trust Him—to lead you down the right path—to show you the way.

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus—Those who know your name trust in you, for you, O LORD, do not abandon those who search for you. Psalm 9:10

Daily Bible Reading: Matthew 23; Luke 20-21

© 2018 photo and text by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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Sharp Friends

As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend. Proverbs 27:17

Iron sharpens iron.

Steel sharpens steel.

Sharpen…to be alert. Friend, we need to be alert.

David wrote about being alert and attentive to his goal…. He was determined not to rest…to be lazy and just enjoy his good life, but he was sharpening his own senses to find a place for God.

I will not go home; I will not let myself rest. I will not let my eyes sleep nor close my eyelids in slumber until I find a place to build a house for the LORD, a sanctuary for the Mighty One of Israel. Psalm 132:3-5

Are we like David? Looking for a place for God in our lives? A place and a time?

His purpose was for the nations to seek after God and perhaps feel their way toward him and find him—though he is not far from any one of us. ... "God overlooked people's ignorance about these things in earlier times, but now he commands everyone everywhere to repent of their sins and turn to him. For he has set a day for judging the world with justice by the man he has appointed, and he proved to everyone who this is by raising him from the dead."  Acts 17:27, 30-31

Paul reminded us that God is not far from us. The truth is He is within us.

And Christ lives within you, so even though your body will die because of sin, the Spirit gives you life because you have been made right with God. The Spirit of God, who raised Jesus from the dead, lives in you. And just as God raised Christ Jesus from the dead, he will give life to your mortal bodies by this same Spirit living within you. Romans 8:10-11

Jesus Himself spoke to His disciples about staying alert when they asked Him about the end times.

Keep alert at all times. And pray that you might be strong enough to escape these coming horrors and stand before the Son of Man. Luke 21:36

In his letter to the church at Ephesus Paul instructed them to keep on praying for fellow Christians. That will help them be sharp…and alert.

Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere. Ephesians 6:18

Are you persistently seeking God yourself, praying for others and encouraging them to seek God daily?

Prayer ~ Now all glory to You, God, who is able, through Your mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think. Ephesians 3:20 Thank You that You keep us alert and sensitive to helping others around us not to become complacent. Iron sharpens Iron.

Daily Bible Reading: Matthew 22; Mark 12

© 2018 photo and text by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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Counsel from a Friend

Wounds from a sincere friend are better than many kisses from an enemy. Proverbs 27:6

The heartfelt counsel of a friend is as sweet as perfume and incense. Proverbs 27:9

Like  this rushing stream...wash away my broken spirit.
Bumping River, Washington

Heartfelt counsel from a sincere friend can be wounding. I had a friend once “counsel” me and she told me that I wasn’t treating another Christian lady very compassionately. Whoa! That cut me to the bone. I was taken aback…but we prayed about it. I didn’t realize that I had offended that other lady. My friend not only criticized me, she corrected me and suggested the right way to handle the situation. I was so amazed at the way the circumstances played out. I was wounded…my spirit was broken—but I was sorry…repentant.

The sacrifice you desire is a broken spirit. You will not reject a broken and repentant heart, O God. Psalm 51:17

That heartfelt counsel from my friend was truly as sweet as perfume…and we are even better friends. It is such an amazing thing to know that someone cares enough about you to help you change—to help you be a better person. The Holy Spirit was certainly flowing through her…ministering to me that day. An amazing thing is that was several years ago…and I really don’t  recall the exact things I said or did that were offensive…or the specific corrective conversation—but I know forgiveness was involved and when true forgiveness occurs—there is an element of forgetfulness.

God is good…and He is surely in heartfelt counsel from a sincere friend. Will you be that friend to someone?

Prayer  ~ Dear Jesus— I understand that nothing in all creation is hidden from You. Everything is naked and exposed before Your eyes, and You are the one to whom we are accountable. Hebrews 4:13. Help me to be a good listening friend—one who is compassionate to others and who can take and give encouraging advice or counsel.

Daily Bible Reading: Mark 11; John 12

© 2018 photo and text by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

Biblical search from Blue Letter Bible - http://v3.blueletterbible.org/search.cfm.

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No Joking

Just as damaging as a madman shooting a deadly weapon is someone who lies to a friend and then says, "I was only joking." Proverbs 26:18-19

No lying. That is from the Ten Commandments.

You must not testify falsely against your neighbor. Exodus 20:16

Falsely testifying is lying…no matter who it is to.

Come, my children, and listen to me, and I will teach you to fear the LORD. Does anyone want to live a life that is long and prosperous? Then keep your tongue from speaking evil and your lips from telling lies! Turn away from evil and do good. Search for peace, and work to maintain it. The eyes of the LORD watch over those who do right; his ears are open to their cries for help. Psalm 34:11-15 (underlined for emphasis)

David wrote about liars and how he values goodness in those around him—friends and servants.

I will not tolerate people who slander their neighbors. I will not endure conceit and pride. I will search for faithful people to be my companions. Only those who are above reproach will be allowed to serve me. I will not allow deceivers to serve in my house, and liars will not stay in my presence. Psalm 101:5-7

Joking is dangerous when it comes lying—it is a foolish action.  Consider what a foolish thing it is to joke about some things at an airport. No fooling around there. Jokes have a time and place—but it is a fool who doesn’t choose those wisely.

There is more hope for a fool than for someone who speaks without thinking. Proverbs 29:20

The eternal future is bright and hopeful for those who are honest and upright. All the blameless will likely be right alongside these chosen ones in Heaven.

Then I saw the Lamb standing on Mount Zion, and with him were 144,000 who had his name and his Father's name written on their foreheads. ... They have told no lies; they are without blame. Revelation 14:1, 5

The liars of this world have a future without God.

But cowards, unbelievers, the corrupt, murderers, the immoral, those who practice witchcraft, idol worshipers, and all liars—their fate is in the fiery lake of burning sulfur. This is the second death. Revelation 21:8

That fiery lake may seem brutal…but those liars who “joke” are warned. Where are you headed?

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus, Declare me innocent, O God! Defend me against these ungodly people. Rescue me from these unjust liars. Psalm 43:1 Thank you, Lord, that my friends are honest. Help all of us to be faithful to You and encouraging to each other.

Daily Bible Reading ~ Luke 19

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table

Tea Time

Healthy eating is best and this is the time of the year we focus on getting lots of antioxidants in our diet to ward off colds and flu. I’ve been reading about the importance and benefits of drinking green tea. The polyphenols in green tea inhibit infection by the influenza virus, as well as fighting other bacteria. It is an amazing food since it also promotes growth of beneficial bacteria in the intestines, contributes to oral health, and reduces coronary heart disease. Studies done on people around the world confirm that green tea is good for you.

Brew tea in fresh water that has come to a boil. Green tea, as well as light herbal teas, should be brewed with water at 160 degrees Fahrenheit that has just come to a boil. Robust herbal teas and oolong teas should have water at 180 to 195 degrees F. Heavy black teas and roasted herbal teas need to have water that is at a rolling boil to release their full flavor. Use one tea bag or a rounded teaspoon of loose tea, in a tea ball or infuser, for each cup of tea brewed. Steep at least three to five minutes to release the flavor and the antioxidants.

Utilize the used tea leaves for a facial scrub, antifungal foot rub, smoking fuel for meats or plant food for your roses. Nothing goes to waste.  

Drink up! I’m about to have a second cup this morning!

© 2018 photo and text by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

Biblical search from Blue Letter Bible - http://v3.blueletterbible.org/search.cfm.

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Hello Darkness My Old Friend

For the choir director: A psalm of the descendants of Korah. A song to be sung to the tune "The Suffering of Affliction." A psalm of Heman the Ezrahite.

O LORD, God of my salvation, I cry out to you by day. I come to you at night. Now hear my prayer; listen to my cry. For my life is full of troubles, and death draws near. I am as good as dead, like a strong man with no strength left. They have left me among the dead, and I lie like a corpse in a grave.

I am forgotten, cut off from your care. You have thrown me into the lowest pit, into the darkest depths. Your anger weighs me down; with wave after wave you have engulfed me.

You have driven my friends away by making me repulsive to them. I am in a trap with no way of escape. My eyes are blinded by my tears. Each day I beg for your help, O LORD; I lift my hands to you for mercy. Are your wonderful deeds of any use to the dead? Do the dead rise up and praise you?

Can those in the grave declare your unfailing love?

Can they proclaim your faithfulness in the place of destruction?

Can the darkness speak of your wonderful deeds?

Can anyone in the land of forgetfulness talk about your righteousness?

O LORD, I cry out to you. I will keep on pleading day by day. O LORD, why do you reject me? Why do you turn your face from me? I have been sick and close to death since my youth. I stand helpless and desperate before your terrors. Your fierce anger has overwhelmed me. Your terrors have paralyzed me. They swirl around me like floodwaters all day long. They have engulfed me completely. You have taken away my companions and loved ones.

Darkness is my closest friend.                                                                                     Psalm 88:1-18

Continuing to look at friends and friendship in Scripture.

Remember the old Simon and Garfield song… “The Sound of Silence”

Hello darkness, my old friend

I’ve come to talk with you again

Darkness - Even with the traffic...it is Dark.

Because a vision softly creeping

Left its seeds while I was sleeping

And the vision that was planted in my brain

Still remains…

Within the sound of silence.

According to Paul Simon, who wrote this song, it is about the inability to communication.

Is darkness your closest friend? Silence. No communication. The Psalmist sounds mad at God. He is rejected and cut off from God and his friends have been driven away by God. Things are not looking good for this guy. Darkness is his only friend.

Do you sometimes feel like darkness is your friend? To me…that sounds like depression. I don’t consider depression a friend. It is a darkness that engulfs me when I let it. Yes. I control whether I let myself feel depressed. Most days I can just take a few deep breaths and say, “No Pity Party Today” “You must do what you must do…and that is not doing only what YOU want to do today—which is not doing anything.” I’m not allowing depression to overcome my attitude and fill my day with gloom. Like the apostle Paul taught...I get my strength from the Lord.

For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength. Philippians 4:13

Even on windy, dusty, scorching or freezing days—no gloom and doom. Like another song says... “Put on a happy face—and smile.” That smile outside sparks a little production of dopamine in the brain—and helps life move ahead in a positive way.

There are days depression doesn’t always just go away. That is the nature of the beast. Then I groan again…Hello darkness my old friend. Do you have days when darkness envelopes you? My hope is for you to turn to the Lord. That is where my hope comes from.

Prayer ~ May the LORD smile on you and be gracious to you. Numbers 6:25.

Daily Bible Reading: Matthew 20-21

© 2018 photo and text by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

Biblical search from Blue Letter Bible - http://v3.blueletterbible.org/search.cfm.

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