Purpose…Not to Love Worldly Things

Memory Verse of the Week ~

Do not love this world nor the things it offers you, for when you love the world, you do not have the love of the Father in you. 1 John 2:15

Find the path...and walk with me.
Don't love the things of this world.
Love God, His people and His creation.

A friend recently challenged me to think about what my purpose is in life? Do you know what your purpose is in life? When I retired several years ago my purpose was to focus on my grandchildren and to spend quality time with them. That has happened somewhat…but there were four grandkiddos then and seven now. But I still would like to be more devoted to them and their activities. With three of them living across the country that has become more difficult. I need to be a bit more creative in my interactions with them. 

My other purpose in life is just writing this blog—which on some days is challenging and other days is such a joy. It is my time with the Lord…and I totally enjoy every moment of it. Still…what is my purpose? Simply to seek and serve the Lord—by serving my family, friends, neighbors and those who God allows to cross my path. To intentionally care about others. To share God's purpose with them. To love God...not to love the world. 

David cried out to the Lord

Have mercy on me, O God, have mercy! I look to you for protection. I will hide beneath the shadow of your wings until the danger passes by. I cry out to God Most High, to God who will fulfill his purpose for me. He will send help from heaven to rescue me, disgracing those who hound me. My God will send forth his unfailing love and faithfulness. Psalm 57:1-3

Paul taught about our bodies being living and holy sacrifices for the Lord.

And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice--the kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him. Don't copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God's will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect. Romans 12:1-2

Maybe that is our purpose…to be living and holy sacrifices to the Lord transformed by Him. 

Prayer ~ Lord…show me Your purpose for my life as I love You more than life itself…certainly more than anything in the world. I trust that in Your grace and mercy, You will cover me with Your love and faithfulness as You reveal Your plan for me…for You have promised… For I know the plans I have for you," says the LORD. "They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.” Jeremiah 29:11

Daily Bible Reading: 1 Samuel 18-20; Psalms 11, 59

© 2019 Text and photos 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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Rest in Peace…Healed

Memory Verse of the Week ~

Do not love this world nor the things it offers you, for when you love the world, you do not have the love of the Father in you. 1 John 2:15

This post is dedicated to Melvin Cerny—a dear friend who loved the Lord and was such a positive influence in so many peoples’ lives. I can hardly wait to see you dancing and running in heaven after spending twenty years rolling about in your metal chariot. Blessings on all your family and friends as they remember you and celebrate your kind and generous life.

We had a friend, Mel, who was a paraplegic—with no feeling below his waist due to an auto accident about twenty years ago. He got around—even drove his big van—with little if any help. If lowering him through the roof would have cured him of his paralysis—we certainly would have cut a big hole in our roof. But we know that Jesus isn’t sitting in our living room crowded by people so that Mel can’t get to Him. Prayer is powerful—but it didn’t bring Mel the use of his legs again…and he was OK with that. He had such a positive attitude…and that was by choice. He made the choice to be happy—to be pleasant and even encouraging to others. What a lesson to all of us who have the use of our legs—as well as our arms, hands, fingers and toes. Did the paralyzed man in this scripture below complain to his friends about his inability to walk? We don’t know…but we do know that his friends had FAITH. Faith in Jesus to heal their friend. Mel doesn’t need any help now. He is healed totally…as he has gone home to be with the Lord.

When Jesus returned to Capernaum several days later, the news spread quickly that he was back home. Soon the house where he was staying was so packed with visitors that there was no more room, even outside the door. While he was preaching God's word to them, four men arrived carrying a paralyzed man on a mat. They couldn't bring him to Jesus because of the crowd, so they dug a hole through the roof above his head. Then they lowered the man on his mat, right down in front of Jesus. Seeing their faith, Jesus said to the paralyzed man, "My child, your sins are forgiven." Mark 2:1-5

He’s Home! The people of Capernaum claimed that their town was Jesus’ home. He was back home. Jesus Himself didn’t claim Capernaum as His home. When talking with a teacher of religious law He said…"Foxes have dens to live in, and birds have nests, but the Son of Man has no place even to lay his head." Matthew 8:20. He had no home. Jesus apparently stayed at the home of Peter’s mother-in-law while He was in Capernaum and it was there that the roof was removed and a paralyzed man was lowered through the ceiling into the room where Jesus was preaching. That must have been amazing. Jesus was even impressed by the faith of the man’s friends. He pronounced forgiveness for the paralyzed man’s sin.

Do you have that kind of faith that Jesus would be able to see? How far would you go to help a friend—paralyzed physically or spiritually? Are you the one who needs a spiritual touch from our Lord? Is Jesus your Lord and Savior? If not, consider one of His many promises—“I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.” John 14:6. Maybe you are thinking you don’t want to go to the Father…but that is the key to Heaven and eternal life. Another promise that gives hope…“For God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life. God sent his Son into the world not to judge the world, but to save the world through him.” John 3:16-17.

Prayer ~ Thank You Lord Jesus for giving us hope…for the love, encouragement, faith, healing touch, and spiritual insight You so richly and mercifully provide to us.

Rest in Peace for you are finally truly healed, dear Mel…until we see you again in Heaven.

Daily Bible Reading: 1 Samuel 15-17

Lilacs will soon be blooming!
Have some with cream cheese on veggies.

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table

It is time to plan and plant your garden. This year I plan to include some edible flowers like nasturtiums. I recall the first time I saw them in a salad, I thought they were just a garnish. Then someone reassured me that they were actually edible. Yum. The leaves and flowers have a sort of a peppery flavor similar to watercress. In researching their use I was very pleased to discover that the seeds can be made into capers. That will be a fun thing to try later in the summer.

For now…it is planning time…and time to get that soil ready. Where I live here in the Columbia Basin we can still expect a freaky spring frost, so it is best to wait a week or so before actually planting seeds outdoors. Below is a list of a few favorites with edible flowers that can be easily grown including some that we think of as herbs. Google and research for yourself a few edible flowers and pick up some seeds at your local nursery, hardware or big box home improvement store. Let me know what you think as they grow and you use them to add some flavor and color to your salads and other dishes.

Edible Flowers

Aylssum – add the flowers to salads, soups or omelets.

Basil – use the flowers as you would the leaves in salads, soups or pasta.

Borage – try freezing flowers in ice cubes. Consume in small quantities.

Lilac – mix flowers with cream cheese and serve on veggies, crackers or toast.
Mint - have you had mint jelly? Make it with flowers and leaves.

Nasturtium – use leaves and flowers in salads or to garnish casseroles. Pickle the seeds into capers.

Pansy – use flowers in salads, desserts or to garnish meat or vegetable dishes.

Peony – use flowers in salads or cook for a treat. Use in water or to garnish punch.

Plumeria – use flowers in salads or steep as a tea.

Primrose – garnish salads, cakes or other desserts.

Squash & Pumpkin – use flowers in salads, pastas, soups, or egg dishes. Can be fried and filled with cream cheese.

Rose – if petals smell good, they will taste good. Also use rose hips in jellies. Use only if organic—no chemical sprays.

Rosemary – use with pork and beef dishes. Flowers are also good in breads.

Enjoy a feast of lovely flowers created just for you by the King of Kings. Good eating. Someday it will be a joy to have edible flowers at the Banquet with the King of Kings in Heaven.

© 2019 Text and photos 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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Does the World Offer Healing?

Memory Verse of the Week ~

Do not love this world nor the things it offers you, for when you love the world, you do not have the love of the Father in you. 1 John 2:15

If you don’t have the love of the Father in you, I think that life would be pretty bleak. Oh sure, you may be making some good money at a job…or not. You may be having a great time in some areas of your life…but do you feel like something is missing…or that you want more from life? Is it possible that you are craving the love of God—that higher power in the spiritual world?

The world would love you as one of its own if you belonged to it, but you are no longer part of the world. I chose you to come out of the world, so it hates you. John 15:19 

Jesus had power over disease and illness. Here is just one example of Jesus healing someone who must have been dear to Him. He doesn’t heal everyone…but we won’t understand the whys of that until we get to heaven. So just be grateful for the times and the ways that He does heal.

After Jesus left the synagogue with James and John, they went to Simon and Andrew's home. Now Simon's mother-in-law was sick in bed with a high fever. They told Jesus about her right away. So he went to her bedside, took her by the hand, and helped her sit up. Then the fever left her, and she prepared a meal for them. That evening after sunset, many sick and demon-possessed people were brought to Jesus. The whole town gathered at the door to watch. So Jesus healed many people who were sick with various diseases, and he cast out many demons. But because the demons knew who he was, he did not allow them to speak. Mark 1:29-34    

When was the last time you ran a fever? I had a low grade one last winter…and it just zapped my energy. Even without a fever that is what being sick usually does—takes away my energy. I’m sure it was the same for Peter’s mother-in-law. There was no way she could have gotten up and fixed supper for Peter, Jesus and all His new friends, until Jesus healed her. He took her by the hand and suddenly there she was—full of energy. Up and ready to fix a big meal for the guests—so grateful to have her health restored. Then all kinds of people showed up at Peter’s home—with lots of different ailments—and even demon possession. Jesus healed them. He had power over disease and demons—the whole city came out to see Him in action. The healings possibly drained a bit of energy from Him. Spiritual energy which His Father would renew in their next prayer time.

Holy Family Shrine - Gretna, Nebraska
Peaceful place to rest, to find the Lord and get recharged.

Where do you get your spiritual energy? The relationships that I have with Jesus and with our Heavenly Father are my source of spiritual energy…and when I’m spiritually healthy, I find that I have more physical energy, too. My body has to be balanced and is healthiest when I am following God’s guidance…and relying on Him for strength, peace…and even joy in my life. For me attitude is a big controlling factor. What have you found that gives you spiritual energy in your life?

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus, Thank You for Your love for the people of Capernaum and for each of us. It does not seem apparent that there was such healing or intervention in the Old Testament…but like this example in Peter’s mother-in-law’s home, You had mercy on her and on many people with afflictions there in that city. Mercy. Love. Compassion. You are always worthy of our praise. Our mere “Thanks” hardly seems enough—but that is part of Your love and compassion. You don’t expect us to be able to “do” anything to deserve Your gift of healing or of eternal life. There is no action—except just belief that is necessary on our part.

Daily Bible Reading: 1 Samuel 13-14

© 2019 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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A Song for All Seasons

Memory Verse of the Week ~

Do not love this world nor the things it offers you, for when you love the world, you do not have the love of the Father in you. 1 John 2:15

Jesus Loves Me This I Know

Jesus loves me this I know

For the Bible tells me so.

Little ones to Him belong,

They are weak, but He is strong.

Yes, Jesus loves me.

Yes, Jesus loves me.

Yes, Jesus loves me.

The Bible tells me so.

This is a song that all little children who go to Sunday School…or have loving grandmothers…learn when they are three or four years old. They may even learn the hand motions or sign language with the words. Deep within their hearts is planted the knowledge and conviction that they are loved. Being loved is the greatest emotion that a human experiences.

Even the dogwood cries out, "The Lord is Risen"
Jesus Loves Me...and You

Can anything ever separate us from Christ's love? Does it mean he no longer loves us if we have trouble or calamity, or are persecuted, or hungry, or destitute, or in danger, or threatened with death? Romans 8:35

Do you feel loved by God even in times of distress or trouble?

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus, Thank you for loving us enough to die for us on the cross and for not only the song…but also the very words of the Bible that promise Your love for us.

Daily Bible Reading: 1 Samuel 9-12

© 2019 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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Heavenly Kingdom

Memory Verse of the Week ~

Do not love this world nor the things it offers you, for when you love the world, you do not have the love of the Father in you. 1 John 2:15

Jesus encouraged people to look for the Kingdom of God…not for worldly pleasures.

Later on, after John was arrested, Jesus went into Galilee, where he preached God's Good News. "The time promised by God has come at last!" he announced. "The Kingdom of God is near! Repent of your sins and believe the Good News!"  Mark 1:14-15 NLT

The Kingdom of God is near! That is a phrase that has been heard around the world…for thousands of years. Old Testament references to God’s Kingdom include a couple found in 2 Chronicles and in the book of Daniel.

Praise the LORD your God, who delights in you and has placed you on the throne as king to rule for him. Because God loves Israel and desires this kingdom to last forever, he has made you king over them so you can rule with justice and righteousness. 2 Chronicles 9:8

During the reigns of those kings, the God of heaven will set up a kingdom that will never be destroyed or conquered. It will crush all these kingdoms into nothingness, and it will stand forever. Daniel 2:44

Beyond our sky...Heaven. Forever.

God’s Kingdom will last forever—as foretold in Daniel—and described by Jesus.

Then Jesus said, "What is the Kingdom of God like? How can I illustrate it? Luke 13:18

So what is the Kingdom of God like? Heaven is a wonderful place—depicted in Revelation.

And I saw the holy city, the new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven like a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. ... It shone with the glory of God and sparkled like a precious stone--like jasper as clear as crystal. The city wall was broad and high, with twelve gates guarded by twelve angels. And the names of the twelve tribes of Israel were written on the gates. There were three gates on each side--east, north, south, and west. The wall of the city had twelve foundation stones, and on them were written the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb. The angel who talked to me held in his hand a gold measuring stick to measure the city, its gates, and its wall. When he measured it, he found it was a square, as wide as it was long. In fact, its length and width and height were each 1,400 miles. Then he measured the walls and found them to be 216 feet thick (according to the human standard used by the angel). The wall was made of jasper, and the city was pure gold, as clear as glass. The wall of the city was built on foundation stones inlaid with twelve precious stones: the first was jasper, the second sapphire, the third agate, the fourth emerald, the fifth onyx, the sixth carnelian, the seventh chrysolite, the eighth beryl, the ninth topaz, the tenth chrysoprase, the eleventh jacinth, the twelfth amethyst. The twelve gates were made of pearls—each gate from a single pearl! And the main street was pure gold, as clear as glass. Revelation 21:2, 11-21

Worshiping God forever and walking on streets of gold. Can you imagine anything more glorious? It all begins with repent and believe.

Prayer ~ Lord God, as we worship You forever heaven’s gates will never be closed at the end of day because there is no night there. And all the nations will bring their glory and honor into the city. Nothing evil will be allowed to enter, nor anyone who practices shameful idolatry and dishonesty—but only those whose names are written in the Lamb's Book of Life. Revelation 21:25-27. Glory. Glory. Glory.

Daily Bible Reading:1 Samuel 4-8

© 2019 Text and photos 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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What Does the World Love? What Do You Love?

Memory Verse of the Week ~

Do not love this world nor the things it offers you, for when you love the world, you do not have the love of the Father in you. 1 John 2:15

What does the world love? Who is the world? Are all the people outside of the “church” or those who don’t love God considered to be “the world”? Aren’t we supposed to love those who are not part of the church so that they can experience the love of God…and then seek to know God themselves? Love your neighbor as yourself?

I think what John was writing about…Do not love this world nor the things it offers you…is saying not to put other things before God. Don’t love money, fame, fancy cars, clothes, food, sports, movies and other entertainment more than you love God. If you love the things that the world tries to entice you with, instead of putting God first in your life then it really shows that you don’t love God the Father…or have His love in you. Pretty straight-forward. That is just how God is. He has made it simple. Love Him. Love others. Love yourself. In speaking with the Pharisee…

Love God...Love Others.
Live in harmony like these daisies and echinacea.

Jesus replied, "'You must love the LORD your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind.' This is the first and greatest commandment. A second is equally important: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' The entire law and all the demands of the prophets are based on these two commandments." Matthew 22:37-40.

In teaching more about God’s plan, Paul wrote, from prison.

So never be ashamed to tell others about our Lord. And don't be ashamed of me, either, even though I'm in prison for him. With the strength God gives you, be ready to suffer with me for the sake of the Good News. For God saved us and called us to live a holy life. He did this, not because we deserved it, but because that was his plan from before the beginning of time—to show us his grace through Christ Jesus. And now he has made all of this plain to us by the appearing of Christ Jesus, our Savior. He broke the power of death and illuminated the way to life and immortality through the Good News. 2 Timothy 1:8-10

There is nothing we can do or say that entitles us to anything that God offers mankind. Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control, or eternal life. None of those are ours. They are a gift from God. What a wonderful gift! All wrapped up—like a precious birthday present. Open it. It is God’s gift of love to you…and you alone. Are you going to accept God’s gift…or are you going to love the world and the things it offers you instead?

Prayer ~ Jesus, I do not love this world nor the things it offers me because I chose to have the love of the Father in me…from 1 John 2:15.

Daily Bible Reading:1 Samuel 1-3

© 2019 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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God is Love

Memory Verse of the Week ~

Do not love this world nor the things it offers you, for when you love the world, you do not have the love of the Father in you. 1 John 2:15

Read the verse in context:

New York City
Are you seeking fame and fortune...or God?

I am writing to you who are God's children because your sins have been forgiven through Jesus. I am writing to you who are mature in the faith because you know Christ, who existed from the beginning. I am writing to you who are young in the faith because you have won your battle with the evil one. I have written to you who are God's children because you know the Father. I have written to you who are mature in the faith because you know Christ, who existed from the beginning. I have written to you who are young in the faith because you are strong. God's word lives in your hearts, and you have won your battle with the evil one. Do not love this world nor the things it offers you, for when you love the world, you do not have the love of the Father in you. For the world offers only a craving for physical pleasure, a craving for everything we see, and pride in our achievements and possessions. These are not from the Father, but are from this world. And this world is fading away, along with everything that people crave. But anyone who does what pleases God will live forever. 1 John 2:12-17

God is love. My Mother taught me that. God is love. I just took her word for it…and then one day I read it for myself in the Bible. Oh. That was where she got that. She didn’t make it up. It was from God Himself. Actually, John wrote about it in a couple of different verses.

But anyone who does not love does not know God, for God is love. 1 John 4:8

We know how much God loves us, and we have put our trust in his love. God is love, and all who live in love live in God, and God lives in them. - 1 John 4:16

When my daughter was in about the first grade, Lisa was in a “Psalty” musical at the Sheppard AFB Chapel and sang a song that comes from 1 John 4:7-8, in the King James Version. It has a catchy tune that I still remember…so does Lisa, who has taught it to her own kiddos.

Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love. 1 John 4:7-8 KJV

When we love the world as well as the fame and fortune it offers instead of God…then we lose out on the love of God the Father. We can’t serve both.

"No one can serve two masters. For you will hate one and love the other; you will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money." Luke 16:13

You choose. Which will it be…money or God?

Prayer ~ Thank You, God, for the lesson…You are love. I choose You.

Daily Bible Reading: Ruth

© 2019 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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Are You Looking for the Key to the Kingdom?

Memory Verse of the Week ~

Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need. Matthew 6:33

Jesus often spoke in parables to describe the Kingdom of God.

Later, when Jesus was alone with the twelve disciples and with the others who were gathered around, they asked him what the parables meant. He replied, "You are permitted to understand the secret of the Kingdom of God. But I use parables for everything I say to outsiders, so that the Scriptures might be fulfilled: 'When they see what I do, they will learn nothing. When they hear what I say, they will not understand. Otherwise, they will turn to me and be forgiven.'" Mark 4:10-12

The secret of the Kingdom of God was hidden in the parables. To only those who understood the parables, something about the Kingdom of God was revealed. Jesus didn’t just open the door to the Kingdom for everyone. They had to search for it…to seek it with all their heart, soul, mind and strength.  The keys to the Kingdom were right there in the stories that He told His followers.

Here is another story Jesus told: "The Kingdom of Heaven is like a farmer who planted good seed in his field." Matthew 13:24

Here is another illustration Jesus used: "The Kingdom of Heaven is like a mustard seed planted in a field." Matthew 13:31

Jesus also used this illustration: "The Kingdom of Heaven is like the yeast a woman used in making bread. Even though she put only a little yeast in three measures of flour, it permeated every part of the dough." Matthew 13:33

"The Kingdom of Heaven is like a treasure that a man discovered hidden in a field. In his excitement, he hid it again and sold everything he owned to get enough money to buy the field." Matthew 13: 44

"Again, the Kingdom of Heaven is like a merchant on the lookout for choice pearls." Matthew 13:45

"Again, the Kingdom of Heaven is like a fishing net that was thrown into the water and caught fish of every kind." Matthew 13: 47

Then he added, "Every teacher of religious law who becomes a disciple in the Kingdom of Heaven is like a homeowner who brings from his storeroom new gems of truth as well as old." Matthew 13:52

Jesus is the key to the Kingdom.

Which of these parables speaks to you? Are you a farmer, a baker or a fisherman? Jesus aimed His parables at particular people so that they could identify with His stories. Where do you look for keys to understanding Jesus’ parables…to seek His Kingdom?

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus, please continue to reveal more of Yourself to us. You said to Thomas…”Blessed and happy and to be envied are those who have never seen Me and yet have believed and adhered to and trusted and relied on Me (Amplified Bible, John 20:29).” We do believe in You and rely on You Jesus…for Your blessings in our lives, daily. You are the key to the Kingdom. Knowing You and loving You is the way that we seek the Kingdom of God above everything else in our lives.

Daily Bible Reading: Judges 19-21

© 2019 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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Be Wise…Treasure Knowledge…Seek God

Memory Verse of the Week ~

Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need. Matthew 6:33

Do you intentionally seek first Jesus every day? Do you exalt Jesus with your life?

Then Jesus said to them (walking along the road to Emmaus), "You foolish people! You find it so hard to believe all that the prophets wrote in the Scriptures. Wasn't it clearly predicted that the Messiah would have to suffer all these things before entering his glory?" Then Jesus took them through the writings of Moses and all the prophets, explaining from all the Scriptures the things concerning himself. Luke 24:25-27

Those foolish people. Didn’t they know the predictions of the Messiah? We are not to be fools.

There are many verses in Proverbs concerning fools.

Wise people treasure knowledge, but the babbling of a fool invites disaster. Proverbs 10:14

The lips of the wise give good advice; the heart of a fool has none to give. Proverbs 15:7

Trusting a fool to convey a message is like cutting off one's feet or drinking poison! Proverbs 26:6

O LORD, what great works you do! And how deep are your thoughts. Only a simpleton would not know, and only a fool would not understand this: Though the wicked sprout like weeds and evildoers flourish, they will be destroyed forever. But you, O LORD, will be exalted forever. Psalm 92:5-8

Exalted forever. That is just how Jesus Christ is…exalted now and forever. We need to study scripture more to gain a deeper understanding of the predictions of the Messiah and to give Jesus—our Messiah—the exaltation He deserves.

Imagine those people walking along with Him on the road to Emmaus. How they didn’t recognize Jesus and yet He was telling them all the facts about Himself as revealed in scripture from Moses and the Old Testament prophets. Do you exalt Him with your life?

Prayer ~ Reveal Yourself to us, Jesus, as we read and re-read Scripture. Make Your Word come alive in our hearts and lives that we would live to please You, serve You, and put You first in all that we do.

Daily Bible Reading: Judges 16-18

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. We’ve got to have some meat, veggies and fruit. The fruit of the vine…grapes make so many different wines. Red wines from red or purple grapes and white wines from green or white grapes. The Bible does not seem to differentiate between the color of the wine or from which grapes it was made. From the prayer during the Last Supper we assume that Jesus was serving red wine because of the relationship between that wine and His blood.

And he took a cup of wine and gave thanks to God for it. He gave it to them and said, "Each of you drink from it, for this is my blood, which confirms the covenant between God and his people. It is poured out as a sacrifice to forgive the sins of many." Matthew 26:27-28

The benefits of wine have been noted and well documented from the time of Hippocrates in 400 BCE to the present time. Those benefits include aids to digestion, sleep and nerves, as well as lowering the incidence of strokes, heart disease and cancer. Wine also can prevent diarrhea and kidney stones. Of course, all this wine must be consumed in moderation with the recommended amount as two four-ounce glasses per day for men and one four-ounce glass per day for women. More or less of these amounts resulted in reduced health benefits. If you choose not to drink alcoholic beverages, then remember that there has been some benefit found to drinking natural grape juice—with no sugar added. No risk of alcoholism involved in unfermented grape juice.

It is interesting to note that Jesus’ first miracle was turning water into wine at a wedding at which He was a guest.

The wine supply ran out during the festivities, so Jesus' mother told him, "They have no more wine." "Dear woman, that's not our problem," Jesus replied. "My time has not yet come." But his mother told the servants, "Do whatever he tells you." Standing nearby were six stone water jars, used for Jewish ceremonial washing. Each could hold twenty to thirty gallons. Jesus told the servants, "Fill the jars with water." When the jars had been filled, he said, "Now dip some out, and take it to the master of ceremonies." So the servants followed his instructions. When the master of ceremonies tasted the water that was now wine, not knowing where it had come from (though, of course, the servants knew), he called the bridegroom over. "A host always serves the best wine first," he said. "Then, when everyone has had a lot to drink, he brings out the less expensive wine. But you have kept the best until now!" This miraculous sign at Cana in Galilee was the first time Jesus revealed his glory. And his disciples believed in him. John 2:3-11

We probably can’t turn water into wine like Jesus did…but if it is within our religious convictions; we can drink a small amount of it as it is beneficial to our health. Wine is so readily available that it is not really cost effective to make your own…although if you are a college student it maybe on your bucket list of things to do. It was on mine. That was an experience…a balloon on a gallon jug. Wine was created. Fourteen Hands, Chateau Ste. Michelle, Badger Mountain and Powers wineries are a few of my favorites among the hundreds in the Tri-Cities area that produce great wines—both red and white varieties. Some are even organic—with no sulfites added. How would those compare to the wine that Jesus made? We can only wait until we get to Heaven to taste His wine. You’ll have to believe first…and then taste the wine!

© 2019 Text and photos 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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Is Fear Keeping You From Seeking the Truth?

Memory Verse of the Week ~

Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need. Matthew 6:33

Now learn a lesson from the fig tree. When its branches bud and its leaves begin to sprout, you know that summer is near. In the same way, when you see all these things, you can know his return is very near, right at the door. I tell you the truth, this generation will not pass from the scene until all these things take place. Heaven and earth will disappear, but my words will never disappear. Matthew 24:32-35

Forsythia blooming in my yard.
Spring is here! 

This is Spring. Trees are budding and leaves are beginning to show. The days are cool…but here in the Tri-Cities of Washington State we will be in the 60’s (degrees F) all next week. The leaves on the trees will really begin to show with the sunshine instead of snow. 

Summer is near…but in the southern hemispheres winter is approaching. Do they read and focus on this scripture the same way…at the same time…that we do in the northern hemisphere? 

Jesus wasn’t concerned about the season…but about the truth of the political situations, epic natural disasters, and deception that would warn people of His second coming…of the rapture and His return. He kept repeating…be ready…don’t be deceived. That is the same message for today. Open your eyes—see what is happening in the world and don’t allow yourselves to be duped and misled. Discern the truth.

Jesus never lied…He IS the Truth.

Jesus told him (His disciple, Thomas), "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.” John 14:6

Keep your eyes on Jesus. Keep your mind free from fear—for the deceiver wants to defeat you and cause you to be afraid. Of what are you afraid? Dying? Living? Loving?

Because God's children are human beings—made of flesh and blood—the Son also became flesh and blood. For only as a human being could he die, and only by dying could he break the power of the devil, who had the power of death. Only in this way could he set free all who have lived their lives as slaves to the fear of dying. Hebrews 2:14-15

Continue to seek Jesus first in your life. He is the way, the truth and the life.

Prayer ~ Jesus, You are the way…to heaven, the truth…for You are God and cannot lie, and the life…that gives us eternal life. I praise You. I want to live in a way…righteously…that brings glory to You. Thank You for providing everything I need.

Daily Bible Reading: Judges 13-15

© 2019 Text and photos 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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Is a Cookie What I Need?

Memory Verse of the Week ~

Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need. Matthew 6:33

Ask. Seek. Knock.

Keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for. Keep on seeking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks, receives. Everyone who seeks, finds. And to everyone who knocks, the door will be opened.

 Matthew 7:7-8

How about a Cookie House?
Can I have that?

How many times do your kids or grandkiddos repeat their requests? Can I have a cookie? Can we paint? What time is it? Are we there yet? What’s for lunch…or supper? Over and over.

How often do you repeat your questions or requests to yourself, your spouse or even to your work associates? Can I have another cookie? Yes, I’d personally like another cookie…but not the fat that it puts on my waist. So I’ll pass on that cookie today.

Do you repeat your requests…your prayers to God? Salvation or healing for this friend or that relative? Do you ever ask God to reveal more of Himself to you? To help you understand Him better? To know about His Kingdom? God Himself tells us to keep on seeking, knocking at His door, and asking for what we want to know or what we need. He has promised that he will give you everything you need. To me that is a great promise. I’m counting on His promises day by day…to change my attitude as well as to help me have patience and good answers for my grandkiddos requests. How about that cookie now?

Prayer ~ Lord God…Thank You for hearing our prayers and for giving us everything we need as we seek and serve You. You are our Lord and risen Savior.

Daily Bible Reading: Judges 10-12

© 2019 Text and photos 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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The Lord Sees Every Heart

Memory Verse of the Week ~

Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need. Matthew 6:33

Consider David’s advice to his son Solomon.

And Solomon, my son, learn to know the God of your ancestors intimately. Worship and serve him with your whole heart and a willing mind. For the LORD sees every heart and knows every plan and thought. If you seek him, you will find him. But if you forsake him, he will reject you forever. 1 Chronicles 28:9

Learn to know God. If you seek him, you will find him. Seek means to look intentionally for something. In this case it is God that we should be seeking. God and His Kingdom. Where are you looking? Are you looking in all the right places? A good place to start is by reading the Bible. God is in every book of the Bible. If you look—diligently searching you will find Him. If you seek him, you will find him. Then what? Matthew tells us to live righteously. Live right in all our ways before God. As David reminds us…The Lord sees every heart and knows every plan and thought.  He knows us…even before we know Him. David also gives us good advice. But if you forsake him, he will reject you forever. 

Don’t reject God. He gives everyone a chance to know about Him…then it is up to each of us to earnestly seek Him. Are you looking intently and intentionally for God…for the Messiah, for your Savior? If you look for Him, it is promised that you will find Him. Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need.

Prayer ~ Thank You Jesus…for being the Lamb of God…for taking away the sins of the world…for being the way, the truth, and the life. I am searching diligently to know You more each day. I long for and look forward to an eternity in Heaven with You, with our Heavenly Father, and with the Holy Spirit.

Daily Bible Reading: Judges 8-9

© 2019 Text and photos 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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Are You Looking for Love?

Memory Verse of the Week ~

Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need. Matthew 6:33

Love God
Pray for Israel...Pray for Jerusalem

Are you looking for love? The greatest love in the world...is God. To seek God and His Kingdom you must want to know Him and love Him.

Listen, O Israel! The LORD is our God, the LORD alone. And you must love the LORD your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your strength. And you must commit yourselves wholeheartedly to these commands that I am giving you today. Repeat them again and again to your children. Talk about them when you are at home and when you are on the road, when you are going to bed and when you are getting up. Tie them to your hands and wear them on your forehead as reminders. Write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates. Deuteronomy 6:4-9

Know God. Seek God. Love Him. Serve Him with all your heart, mind, soul and strength. Are you looking for love…the greatest love in the world?

Prayer ~ Lord God…I do love You with all my heart, mind soul and strength. You are awesome. May all of Israel also seek You with all their hearts. Protect them as they search for You. Let them recognize You as their Messiah—just as You are my Messiah…my King of Kings…my Lord and Savior. I praise You, Heavenly Father—for Your redemption plan…for allowing Jesus’ blood to be shed for the sins of mankind. Thank You.

Daily Bible Reading: Judges 6-7

© 2019 Text and photos 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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