Banquet With The King

Sunday, September 11, 2022

Who Rescues the Helpless?

Prayer – Lord, thank you that you oppose those who oppose us…and fight for us, rescuing us from our enemies. You are the greatest!

O LORD, oppose those who oppose me. Fight those who fight against me. Put on your armor, and take up your shield. Prepare for battle, and come to my aid. Lift up your spear and javelin against those who pursue me. Let me hear you say, "I will give you victory!" Bring shame and disgrace on those trying to kill me; turn them back and humiliate those who want to harm me. Blow them away like chaff in the wind—a wind sent by the angel of the LORD. Make their path dark and slippery, with the angel of the LORD pursuing them. I did them no wrong, but they laid a trap for me. I did them no wrong, but they dug a pit to catch me. So let sudden ruin come upon them! Let them be caught in the trap they set for me! Let them be destroyed in the pit they dug for me. Then I will rejoice in the LORD. I will be glad because he rescues me. With every bone in my body I will praise him: "LORD, who can compare with you? Who else rescues the helpless from the strong? Who else protects the helpless and poor from those who rob them?" Psalm 35:1-10 (Also read Psalm 35:11-28)

Meditate. David asked the Lord to fight his opponents—we can, too.

David wants to hear the Lord say, “I will give you victory!” Can you imagine the Lord putting on armor and using a spear, javelin and shield to defend you? David had great hope and expectations of the Lord—wanting those who were his enemies to be destroyed. They seem like pretty wicked people—attacking, trying to trap and kill David, although he didn’t harm them. That’s the way it is with political enemies—vicious attacking without cause. David has the right idea—let God handle them and then praise God. No one can compare with the Lord. He protects and rescues the helpless, rich and poor. No matter who they are…if they are on God’s side, then God will rescue them. Good reason to be seeking the Lord God…and asking Him to help you. Are you seeking the Lord? He is an awesome God—no one can compare with Him. Like David—I praise the Lord for His mercy, strength, and devotion to His followers. It is Jesus Christ, our risen Lord and Savior, who rescues the helpless.

No stumbling wearing these old shoes.

Verses of Salvation ~ Then I called on the name of the LORD: "Please, LORD, save me!" How kind the LORD is! How good he is! So merciful, this God of ours! The LORD protects those of childlike faith; I was facing death, and he saved me. Let my soul be at rest again, for the LORD has been good to me. He has saved me from death, my eyes from tears, my feet from stumbling. And so I walk in the LORD's presence as I live here on earth! Psalm 116:4-9

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

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Parenting Day By Day - Daily Devotional for Building Character

Coins in the Bible: New Testament Stories

Saturday, September 10, 2022

Do You Lack Anything?

Prayer – Lord, even though I’ve known You for years…I still feel that I could benefit from more teaching about You…not just head knowledge, but heart knowledge that I can apply to my life. I praise You constantly. Help me to show others my deep respect of You—no fear…just an abiding respect that draws me closer to You.

I will praise the LORD at all times. I will constantly speak his praises. I will boast only in the LORD; let all who are helpless take heart. Come, let us tell of the LORD's greatness; let us exalt his name together. I prayed to the LORD, and he answered me. He freed me from all my fears. Those who look to him for help will be radiant with joy; no shadow of shame will darken their faces. In my desperation I prayed, and the LORD listened; he saved me from all my troubles. For the angel of the LORD is a guard; he surrounds and defends all who fear him. Taste and see that the LORD is good. Oh, the joys of those who take refuge in him! Fear the LORD, you his godly people, for those who fear him will have all they need. Even strong young lions sometimes go hungry, but those who trust in the LORD will lack no good thing.

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. But the LORD turns his face against those who do evil; he will erase their memory from the earth. The LORD hears his people when they call to him for help. He rescues them from all their troubles. The LORD is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those whose spirits are crushed. The righteous person faces many troubles, but the LORD comes to the rescue each time. For the LORD protects the bones of the righteous; not one of them is broken! Calamity will surely overtake the wicked, and those who hate the righteous will be punished. But the LORD will redeem those who serve him. No one who takes refuge in him will be condemned. Psalm 34:1-22

Meditate. Consider God’s wisdom and guidance in this scripture passage. Listen to Him.

God doesn’t expect much from His creation…from us human beings…except to love, fear or respect Him, to be honest, to call out to Him when we are brokenhearted, facing troubles, and to serve Him. He wants us to live clean lives that honor Him. He promises to hear us, to rescue us, to protect us, and to redeem us. That may all sound simple, but in reality, our selfish attitudes get in the way and we don’t listen, learn and obey. David tells us that the eyes of the LORD watch over those who do right; his ears are open to their cries for help. The LORD hears his people…and rescues them. He wants a relationship with us. He is listening. Are we listening to Him—holding onto His words?

Are you shining like bright lights--fireworks?

Do everything without complaining and arguing, so that no one can criticize you. Live clean, innocent lives as children of God, shining like bright lights in a world full of crooked and perverse people. Hold firmly to the word of life; then, on the day of Christ's return, I will be proud that I did not run the race in vain and that my work was not useless. Philippians 2:14-16

Like David, I prayed, and the LORD listened; he saved me from all my troubles. Now, I praise the Lord continually, telling others of His greatness. My God is an awesome God—saving all who believe in Him and serve Him. Seek Him and you will find Him. Ask Him to forgive your sins and be your Savior. …those who trust in the LORD will lack no good thing.

Verse of Salvation ~ Dear friends, you always followed my instructions when I was with you. And now that I am away, it is even more important. Work hard to show the results of your salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear. For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him. Philippians 2:12-13

Memory Verse of the Week ~ I am the LORD, and there is no other Savior. Isaiah 43:11

Did you commit this verse to memory this week?

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

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Coins in the Bible: New Testament Stories

Friday, September 9, 2022

Do You Give Unfailing Love? God Does.

Prayer – Lord, open my eyes and heart to the truths in Your word that You want to show me today. Your unfailing love is magnificent and overwhelming…and new every morning.

Let the godly sing for joy to the LORD; it is fitting for the pure to praise him. Praise the LORD with melodies on the lyre; make music for him on the ten-stringed harp. Sing a new song of praise to him; play skillfully on the harp, and sing with joy. For the word of the LORD holds true, and we can trust everything he does. He loves whatever is just and good; the unfailing love of the LORD fills the earth. The LORD merely spoke, and the heavens were created. He breathed the word, and all the stars were born. He assigned the sea its boundaries and locked the oceans in vast reservoirs. Let the whole world fear the LORD, and let everyone stand in awe of him. For when he spoke, the world began! It appeared at his command. The LORD frustrates the plans of the nations and thwarts all their schemes. But the LORD's plans stand firm forever; his intentions can never be shaken. What joy for the nation whose God is the LORD, whose people he has chosen as his inheritance. The LORD looks down from heaven and sees the whole human race. From his throne he observes all who live on the earth. He made their hearts, so he understands everything they do. The best-equipped army cannot save a king, nor is great strength enough to save a warrior. Don't count on your warhorse to give you victory—for all its strength, it cannot save you. But the LORD watches over those who fear him, those who rely on his unfailing love. He rescues them from death and keeps them alive in times of famine. We put our hope in the LORD. He is our help and our shield. In him our hearts rejoice, for we trust in his holy name. Let your unfailing love surround us, LORD, for our hope is in you alone. Psalm 33:1-22 (Underlined for emphasis.)

Meditate. What does it mean to “fear” the Lord?

The Lord watches over those who fear him, those who rely on his unfailing love. There are 121 verses in the New Living Translation that have that phrase “Unfailing love.” A couple of them are classic well-known passages. Do a search for yourself and see all the verses on this phrase—or others of interest to you. Here are verses from the Ten Commandments and the all-time favorite, Psalm 23.

You must not have any other god but me. You must not make for yourself an idol of any kind or an image of anything in the heavens or on the earth or in the sea. You must not bow down to them or worship them, for I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God who will not tolerate your affection for any other gods. I lay the sins of the parents upon their children; the entire family is affected—even children in the third and fourth generations of those who reject me. But I lavish unfailing love for a thousand generations on those who love me and obey my commands. Exodus 20:3-6 (Underlined for emphasis.)

Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me all the days of my life, and I will live in the house of the LORD forever. Psalm 23:6 (Underlined for emphasis.)

We can count on sunflowers in Summer.
We can rely on God's
unfailing love...all year around.

Unfailing love is also translated as lovingkindness (Strong’s H2617) used as mercy, kindness, and faithfulness. That is our God. God is love—unfailing love. We can count on Him to keep His promises and the one He gives us in Exodus 20 is certainly one to hang onto. He will lavish His unfailing love for a thousand generations on those who love Him and obey His commands. Obedience is once again the key to a right relationship with the Lord.

To “fear” the Lord is to respect Him. We don’t have to quake in our boots, if we love the Lord and obey Him. In fact, He assures us that He is going to generously pour out His love on those who love, respect, and obey Him. What more motivation do we need? No fear—just respect—and you’ll get unfailing love.

Verse of Salvation ~ Show us your unfailing love, O LORD, and grant us your salvation. Psalm 85:7

Memory Verse of the Week ~ I am the LORD, and there is no other Savior. Isaiah 43:11

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table

This is the best time of the year for fresh green beans. Many of the farmers at the local Farmer’s Market have been raising green beans and have picked them just for us. How do you cook them? You don’t need a recipe. Just wash them. Snap them into bite sized pieces. Cook them in a little water on the stove, adding some garlic, and fresh chopped basil or thyme. They won’t take too long—just a few minutes. Don’t overcook them. Add some butter, olive oil, or crisp, chopped bacon when you serve them if you like. Enjoy!

Happy Anniversary, Lisa & Kim

May God continue to bless you with His Unfailing Love.

💖💖 💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖

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

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Thursday, September 8, 2022

Are You on God’s Path?

Prayer – Lord, show me what You want me to me to do today. I need Your guidance, wisdom, and discernment as I walk down Your pathway…as You lead me in the paths of righteousness for Your name’s sake.

Path of Righteousness
Holy Family Shine
Gretna, Nebraska

Oh, what joy for those whose disobedience is forgiven, whose sin is put out of sight! Yes, what joy for those whose record the LORD has cleared of guilt, whose lives are lived in complete honesty! When I refused to confess my sin, my body wasted away, and I groaned all day long. Day and night your hand of discipline was heavy on me. My strength evaporated like water in the summer heat. Interlude Finally, I confessed all my sins to you and stopped trying to hide my guilt. I said to myself, "I will confess my rebellion to the LORD." And you forgave me! All my guilt is gone. Therefore, let all the godly pray to you while there is still time, that they may not drown in the floodwaters of judgment. For you are my hiding place; you protect me from trouble. You surround me with songs of victory. The LORD says, "I will guide you along the best pathway for your life. I will advise you and watch over you. Do not be like a senseless horse or mule that needs a bit and bridle to keep it under control." Many sorrows come to the wicked, but unfailing love surrounds those who trust the LORD. So rejoice in the LORD and be glad, all you who obey him! Shout for joy, all you whose hearts are pure! Psalm 32:1-11

Meditate. When was the last time you confessed your sins?

Slate’s wiped clean! That is part of what The Message translates the beginning of this passage of scripture. David knew that to hold his sin inside would just make him miserable—so he confessed his rebellion—the error of his way of life—to the Lord. All his guilt was gone. He was released from his terrible burden. I remember when I first became a Christian and I repented of my sin—and at that point in my life I didn’t think I was a terrible person doing evil things. But what a great burden was lifted off my shoulders! I could literally feel it. I’m sure that is just how David felt, too. Then he goes on to encourage others. Time to fess up! Therefore, let all the godly pray to you while there is still time, that they may not drown in the floodwaters of judgment. Get right with God while there is still time. Jesus told His follows to be ready. We don’t know the hour or the day of His return. Being ready includes getting ready…confessing your sins—so that your heart is pure. You can stand righteous before the Lord.

So you, too, must keep watch! For you don't know what day your Lord is coming. Understand this: If a homeowner knew exactly when a burglar was coming, he would keep watch and not permit his house to be broken into. You also must be ready all the time, for the Son of Man will come when least expected. Matthew 24:42-44

The Lord promises in this Psalm…I will guide you along the best pathway for your life. The best pathway. That’s always a good path to follow. God’s way. Are you on God’s path?

Verses of Salvation ~ God the Father knew you and chose you long ago, and his Spirit has made you holy. As a result, you have obeyed him and have been cleansed by the blood of Jesus Christ. May God give you more and more grace and peace. 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. 1 Peter 1:2-5

Memory Verse of the Week ~ I am the LORD, and there is no other Savior. Isaiah 43:11

Happy Anniversary - Joe & Debbie

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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Wednesday, September 7, 2022

Are You Feeling Strong?

Prayer – Lord, I don’ feel very strong—just tired. Yet I will continue to put my hope in You.

How great is the goodness you have stored up for those who fear you. You lavish it on those who come to you for protection, blessing them before the watching world. You hide them in the shelter of your presence, safe from those who conspire against them. You shelter them in your presence, far from accusing tongues. Praise the LORD, for he has shown me the wonders of his unfailing love. He kept me safe when my city was under attack. In panic I cried out, "I am cut off from the LORD!" But you heard my cry for mercy and answered my call for help. Love the LORD, all you godly ones! For the LORD protects those who are loyal to him, but he harshly punishes the arrogant. So be strong and courageous, all you who put your hope in the LORD! Psalm 31:19-24 (Read all of Psalm 31.)

Meditate. Don’t lose hope. The Lord loves you so very much.

This Psalm covers a lot, but I chose these verses just to remind us of God’s unfailing love…and the hope that we have in Him. Be strong and courageous. That is a theme that is carried out in 64 verses (NLT) in the Bible. The Holy Spirit inspired both Old and New Testament authors to reassure the readers that the Lord loves us and He has promised to never leave us or forsake us. That is a favorite verse of mine.

· So be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid and do not panic before them. For the LORD your God will personally go ahead of you. He will neither fail you nor abandon you." Deuteronomy 31:6

· "Don't be afraid," he said, "for you are very precious to God. Peace! Be encouraged! Be strong!" As he spoke these words to me, I suddenly felt stronger and said to him, "Please speak to me, my lord, for you have strengthened me." Daniel 10:19

· 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

· So, my dear brothers and sisters, be strong and immovable. Always work enthusiastically for the Lord, for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless. 1 Corinthians 15:58

· Be on guard. Stand firm in the faith. Be courageous. Be strong. 1 Corinthians 16:13

Waves on the Pacific Ocean
Oregon Coast

Be strong. God doesn’t want us to be wimpy or wishy-washy, tossed about like a wave…undecisive. Be strong—stand up for God and for yourself. Defend the faith. Take up your cross daily.

Be courageous. Look for courage. You will find it in the Lord. Just like Moses and the Lord both told Joshua…Don’t be afraid. Times ahead will bring trials…and as Luke wrote…there will be coming horrors. Keep alert. Be ready—not surprised. Be strong and immovable. Don’t give in when the going gets rough. Decide ahead of time that you will be strong and courageous. Then trust the Lord. I really like the verse from Daniel that the Lord’s word strengthened him. That is the same thing that happens to me—when I am especially tired, God’s word just makes me feel stronger. Emotionally. Physically. Spiritually.

God is so good. He protects and shows His unfailing love to those who are faithful to Him. Are you feeling strong?

Verse of Salvation ~ Dear friends, I had been eagerly planning to write to you about the salvation we all share. But now I find that I must write about something else, urging you to defend the faith that God has entrusted once for all time to his holy people. Jude 1:3

Memory Verse of the Week ~ I am the LORD, and there is no other Savior. Isaiah 43:11

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

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Parenting Day By Day - Daily Devotional for Building Character

Coins in the Bible: New Testament Stories

Tuesday, September 6, 2022

How Long Does God’s Anger Last?

Prayer – Lord, open my eyes and my heart to understanding Your word, and following Your ways.

Here comes the sun...
And joy in this new day from the Lord.

Prosser Balloon Festival
Prosser, Washington

I will exalt you, LORD, for you rescued me. You refused to let my enemies triumph over me. O LORD my God, I cried to you for help, and you restored my health. You brought me up from the grave, O LORD. You kept me from falling into the pit of death. Sing to the LORD, all you godly ones! Praise his holy name. For his anger lasts only a moment, but his favor lasts a lifetime! Weeping may last through the night, but joy comes with the morning. When I was prosperous, I said, "Nothing can stop me now!" Your favor, O LORD, made me as secure as a mountain. Then you turned away from me, and I was shattered. I cried out to you, O LORD. I begged the Lord for mercy, saying, "What will you gain if I die, if I sink into the grave? Can my dust praise you? Can it tell of your faithfulness? Hear me, LORD, and have mercy on me. Help me, O LORD." You have turned my mourning into joyful dancing. You have taken away my clothes of mourning and clothed me with joy, that I might sing praises to you and not be silent. O LORD my God, I will give you thanks forever! Psalm 30:1-12

Meditate. Read God’s word and listen to what He is saying.

How long does God’s anger last? David acknowledges God’s deliverance from his past sin. He declared, from his experience, that…His anger lasts only a moment, but His favor lasts a lifetime! God is forgiving to those who repent—who are willing to admit that they have sinned. We all fall short of the glory of God.

For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God's glorious standard. Romans 3:23

For me, another key verse in this passage is:

What will you gain if I die, if I sink into the grave? Can my dust praise you? Can it tell of your faithfulness? Hear me, LORD, and have mercy on me.

God doesn’t really need us…although in our finite minds, we may think that He can’t exist without us. Truth is that He does want a relationship with us…but He wants us to be pure and that begins with repenting—turning away from our sinful nature. He is merciful. He accepts us as we are…but He wants us to change. David recognized this in his life…and he changed. We can do the same. Looking back over my life…I can note that because of my relationship with the Lord, I have changed. I am repentant daily…and I not only seek to please the Lord, but I am excited about seeing Him working in my life. I am clothed in joy…and am dancing in my heart because of His love for me…and His love flowing through me to others. I may still experience some mourning—some sadness over losses…but I am content with the life and certainly overwhelmed with the abundance which God has provided to me and my family. God’s anger didn’t last long for David…and it has not lasted long for me.

Do you feel that God is angry with you? Cry out to Him for mercy…just as David did. Hopefully you’ll find that God’s anger doesn’t last long. His anger lasts only a moment, but His favor lasts a lifetime!

Verse of Salvation ~ Consult together, argue your case. Get together and decide what to say. Who made these things known so long ago? What idol ever told you they would happen? Was it not I, the LORD? For there is no other God but me, a righteous God and Savior. There is none but me. Isaiah 45:21

Memory Verse of the Week ~ I am the LORD, and there is no other Savior. Isaiah 43:11

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

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Monday, September 5, 2022

What Does God Do?

Prayer – Lord, You are awesome. I recognize and acknowledge that You are powerful—Your very voice is powerful over all the earth and all of mankind. You give us strength, blessing us with Your peace. A peace that surpasses all understanding. You will reign forever and ever. Glory be to Your name. Glory be to You—King of kings and Lord of lords.

Snowcapped Mount Hermon.
Israel

Honor the LORD, you heavenly beings; honor the LORD for his glory and strength. Honor the LORD for the glory of his name. Worship the LORD in the splendor of his holiness. The voice of the LORD echoes above the sea. The God of glory thunders. The LORD thunders over the mighty sea. The voice of the LORD is powerful; the voice of the LORD is majestic. The voice of the LORD splits the mighty cedars; the LORD shatters the cedars of Lebanon. He makes Lebanon's mountains skip like a calf; he makes Mount Hermon leap like a young wild ox. The voice of the LORD strikes with bolts of lightning. The voice of the LORD makes the barren wilderness quake; the LORD shakes the wilderness of Kadesh. The voice of the LORD twists mighty oaks and strips the forests bare. In his Temple everyone shouts, "Glory!" The LORD rules over the floodwaters. The LORD reigns as king forever. The LORD gives his people strength. The LORD blesses them with peace. Psalm 29:1-11

Meditate. What does God do?

What does God do? David gives us a list here in this Psalm exclaiming the power in just the voice of the LORD. His voice is:

Like thunder—echoing above the mighty sea.
Powerful.
Majestic.
Able to move mountains.
Causes earthquakes.
Rules over nature—trees splitting, lightning flashing, and floodwaters surging.
Declaring that He reigns forever.
Giving strength to people.

Blessing His people with peace.

And His people respond to His voice by shouting “Glory!” Our God is an awesome God. He is worthy of honor and glory as we worship Him. One day we will see Him in all His glory reigning from His Heavenly throne. Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. Above all, the important thing that God has done for mankind is to offer salvation from our sins through the blood of Jesus—shed on the cross as a sacrifice once and for all.

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

Our response to that gift of salvation will make a difference in where we spend eternity. Do you want to spend it with God or without Him? His voice is calling you to make a decision today. Trust Jesus and accept that gift of salvation…or reject Him and spend eternity in darkness or the Lake of Fire. The choice is yours. God gives you a choice…that is what God does.

Verses of Salvation ~ Then there was war in heaven. Michael and his angels fought against the dragon and his angels. And the dragon lost the battle, and he and his angels were forced out of heaven. This great dragon—the ancient serpent called the devil, or Satan, the one deceiving the whole world—was thrown down to the earth with all his angels. Then I heard a loud voice shouting across the heavens, "It has come at last—salvation and power and the Kingdom of our God, and the authority of his Christ. For the accuser of our brothers and sisters has been thrown down to earth—the one who accuses them before our God day and night. And they have defeated him by the blood of the Lamb and by their testimony. And they did not love their lives so much that they were afraid to die. Therefore, rejoice, O heavens! And you who live in the heavens, rejoice! But terror will come on the earth and the sea, for the devil has come down to you in great anger, knowing that he has little time." Revelation 12:7-12 (Underlined for emphasis.)

Memory Verse of the Week ~ I am the LORD, and there is no other Savior. Isaiah 43:11

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

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Parenting Day By Day - Daily Devotional for Building Character

Coins in the Bible: New Testament Stories

Sunday, September 4, 2022

How to Pray

Prayer – Lord, teach me to pray. I want to be a prayer warrior like David. He wrote such wonderful Psalms—songs of praise and prayer to You. I can see him bursting out in songs of thanksgiving to You. Please give me strength—like that strength David wrote about You giving to Your people. I’m Your “people”—so, fill me with Your love and strength. Let it flow through me to others.

I pray to you, O LORD, my rock. Do not turn a deaf ear to me. For if you are silent, I might as well give up and die. Listen to my prayer for mercy as I cry out to you for help, as I lift my hands toward your holy sanctuary. Do not drag me away with the wicked—with those who do evil—those who speak friendly words to their neighbors while planning evil in their hearts. Give them the punishment they so richly deserve! Measure it out in proportion to their wickedness. Pay them back for all their evil deeds! Give them a taste of what they have done to others. They care nothing for what the LORD has done or for what his hands have made. So he will tear them down, and they will never be rebuilt! Praise the LORD! For he has heard my cry for mercy. 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. The LORD gives his people strength. He is a safe fortress for his anointed king. Save your people! Bless Israel, your special possession. Lead them like a shepherd, and carry them in your arms forever. Psalm 28:1-9

Meditate. Consider God’s guidance in scripture. Read God’s word and listen to what He is saying.

David was such a great warrior—but he was also a devoted prayer warrior. That’s what I want to be. So, what can we learn from David about prayer? From this particular Psalm I see David teaching us a few things.

Sign seen in Israel.
A call to prayer.

1. Appeal to the Lord. Ask Him to hear you—not to turn a deaf ear to you. Please LISTEN!
2. Cry out for help. Don’t whine, just speak up and let the Lord know you want to be heard.
3. Position is important. Lift up your hands in worship and prayer.
4. PRAISE the LORD! He is worthy of praise—so give Him your best.
5. Acknowledge that He has heard you call out requesting mercy.
6. Recognize and admit that The Lord is the source of your strength, protection, and joy.
7. Trust The Lord.
8. Thank God for all He has done for you, for your family, friends, neighbors…and Israel.
Prayer is conversation with God. Building your relationship with Him needs to be done on a daily basis…even more than once a day. Paul gave some specific directions to the church at Thessalonica.

Never stop praying. 1 Thessalonians 5:17

Some translations say to “pray without ceasing” and that is continually. That might be kind of hard to do and continue to work for a company, corporation, or even yourself, but it is good to have an attitude of prayer—always being willing to pray for and with someone. David gave his son, Solomon, some great advice about God, who knows and sees everything.

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

God sees every heart and knows every plan. Are you seeking Jesus Christ as your Savior? Seek him and you will find Him. Then, do you plan to pray today? How will you pray?

Verse of Salvation ~ But I keep praying to you, LORD, hoping this time you will show me favor. In your unfailing love, O God, answer my prayer with your sure salvation. Psalm 69:13

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

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

Books by Mickey M. Hunacek

Available as e-books or paperbacks at Amazon.com

Parenting Day By Day - Daily Devotional for Building Character

Coins in the Bible: New Testament Stories

Saturday, September 3, 2022

Why Should I Be Afraid?

Prayer – Lord, I love Your scripture. You’ve asked me to come talk to You. I’m here…doing that now. Hear me. Through Your scripture You lift me up—giving me the assurance that You are in control. I don’t need to be afraid or even nervous. You’ve got my back. You’ll hide me if my enemies come around me. The one thing I want, Lord, is to dwell in Your home…in Your house all the rest of my life. Since I believe in You as my Savior, I am assured that the rest of my life is eternity. Forever is a long time. Show me how to live—walking along the right path…day by day…while I am still on earth…and forever serving You in Heaven. For now…I am waiting patiently.

The LORD is my light and my salvation—so why should I be afraid? The LORD is my fortress, protecting me from danger, so why should I tremble? When evil people come to devour me, when my enemies and foes attack me, they will stumble and fall. Though a mighty army surrounds me, my heart will not be afraid. Even if I am attacked, I will remain confident. The one thing I ask of the LORD—the thing I seek most—is to live in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, delighting in the LORD's perfections and meditating in his Temple. For he will conceal me there when troubles come; he will hide me in his sanctuary. He will place me out of reach on a high rock. Then I will hold my head high above my enemies who surround me. At his sanctuary I will offer sacrifices with shouts of joy, singing and praising the LORD with music. Hear me as I pray, O LORD. Be merciful and answer me! My heart has heard you say, "Come and talk with me." And my heart responds, "LORD, I am coming." Do not turn your back on me. Do not reject your servant in anger. You have always been my helper. Don't leave me now; don't abandon me, O God of my salvation! Even if my father and mother abandon me, the LORD will hold me close. Teach me how to live, O LORD. Lead me along the right path, for my enemies are waiting for me. Do not let me fall into their hands. For they accuse me of things I've never done; with every breath they threaten me with violence. Yet I am confident I will see the LORD's goodness while I am here in the land of the living. Wait patiently for the LORD. Be brave and courageous. Yes, wait patiently for the LORD. Psalm 27:1-14

Meditate. Consider God’s guidance in scripture. Read God’s word and listen to what He is saying.

Why should I be afraid? No need to be afraid when our Savior Jesus Christ is right here with us—actually in the form of the Holy Spirit. If we recognize that everyone is a sinner, and we tell God that we are sorry for our sins (repent), confessing and believe in Jesus as the Son of God and our own personal Savior of the world, then we can be assured that He will not abandon us. He will lead us along the right path in life…following His guidance. In addition to being our Savior, He is our helper, protector, and teacher. As David wrote in this Psalm, Jesus is calling us by name and saying to us, “Hey. Come chat with me. I want to have a relationship with you.” Can you do that? If you cannot or will not believe in Jesus as your Lord and Savior, then you might consider a fear of darkness…and the fiery Lake of Fire that non-believers will one day find themselves after the Judgment. From my viewpoint, most people who reject Jesus are so self-centered that they have no fear of their future. Think again.

Why should you be afraid? Jesus is the last person you need to fear! Consider the Memory Verse for this week in which Jesus says…"Do not be afraid, for I have ransomed you. I have called you by name; you are mine.” You belong to Him—so do I. Like in some pirate movie…we have been ransomed—and Jesus paid the price for us. Ahoy Mates. Have no fear! Jesus is the Captain of our ship…and our Savior, too. He won’t abandon us to some evil pirates. He will fight for us. Actually, He has already fought for us—and He won the battle over sin and death. Hooray!

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? Psalm 56:10-11

The Sea of Galilee become calm.
Are you afraid of storms in your life?

Jesus even has power over the wind as He demonstrated during a storm on the Sea of Galilee.

Suddenly, a fierce storm struck the lake, with waves breaking into the boat. But Jesus was sleeping. The disciples went and woke him up, shouting, "Lord, save us! We're going to drown!" Jesus responded, "Why are you afraid? You have so little faith!" Then he got up and rebuked the wind and waves, and suddenly there was a great calm. The disciples were amazed. "Who is this man?" they asked. "Even the winds and waves obey him!" Matthew 8:24-27 NLT

God cares about you. Why should you be afraid?

Verses of Salvation ~ Jesus responded, "Salvation has come to this home today, for this man has shown himself to be a true son of Abraham. For the Son of Man came to seek and save those who are lost." Luke 19:9-10

Memory Verse of the Week ~ But now, O Jacob, listen to the LORD who created you. O Israel, the one who formed you says, "Do not be afraid, for I have ransomed you. I have called you by name; you are mine.” Isaiah 43:1

Did you memorize this week’s memory verse?

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

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

Books by Mickey M. Hunacek

Available as e-books or paperbacks at Amazon.com

Parenting Day By Day - Daily Devotional for Building Character

Coins in the Bible: New Testament Stories

Friday, September 2, 2022

How Can I Be Saved?

Prayer – Lord, show me something new and important in scripture today. I trust You. So, like David, I ask that You mercifully redeem—save—rescue—and release me from my sinful nature. Now, I stand on solid ground, and I publicly praise You, LORD—for You are my Savior.

Declare me innocent, O LORD, for I have acted with integrity; I have trusted in the LORD without wavering. Put me on trial, LORD, and cross-examine me. Test my motives and my heart. For I am always aware of your unfailing love, and I have lived according to your truth. I do not spend time with liars or go along with hypocrites. I hate the gatherings of those who do evil, and I refuse to join in with the wicked. I wash my hands to declare my innocence. I come to your altar, O LORD, singing a song of thanksgiving and telling of all your wonders. I love your sanctuary, LORD, the place where your glorious presence dwells. Don't let me suffer the fate of sinners. Don't condemn me along with murderers. Their hands are dirty with evil schemes, and they constantly take bribes. But I am not like that; I live with integrity. So redeem me and show me mercy. Now I stand on solid ground, and I will publicly praise the LORD. Psalm 26:1-12

Meditate. Read God’s word and listen to what He is saying to you.

In this Psalm David listed all these things that he felt pleased God and asked God to test him. Did any of the things he did “save” him?

· Aware of God’s unfailing love and lived according to His truth.
· Did not spend time with liars or go along with hypocrites.
· Did not associate with evil people, refusing to join them in their wicked schemes.
· Loved going to church, singing songs of thanksgiving and witnessing God’s miracles.
· Didn't want to suffer the fate of sinners, murderers, and those who take bribes.

Just the desire to please the Lord and not be like other sinners won’t save a person. A couple of things that David did that set him on the right path to salvation were that he:

· Washed his hands to declare his innocence. He repented.
· Lived with integrity.

At the beginning of His ministry, Jesus taught about the Good News, the Kingdom of God and how to be saved. Integrity alone won’t guarantee salvation. Washing one’s hands is repenting and then living a life of integrity is a right step. Repenting, turning away and giving up the sinful life, is the key.

"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 1:15

In the book of Romans, Paul instructed readers on how to be saved.

If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is by believing in your heart that you are made right with God, and it is by confessing with your mouth that you are saved. As the Scriptures tell us, "Anyone who trusts in him will never be disgraced." Jew and Gentile are the same in this respect. They have the same Lord, who gives generously to all who call on him. Romans 10:9-12

Pretty simple. No one can “be saved” by doing good deeds—by being good. Since everyone sins, we must confess our sin—repent—be sorry and give up the immoral offenses that we have done. Confess those things to God. Believe in Jesus since He is the one who sacrificially gave His life for our sin. Then you will be saved. That’s it. It a simple, but humbling, experience to answer that question: How can I be saved?

Verses of Salvation ~ God saved you by his grace when you believed. And you can't take credit for this; it is a gift from God. Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it. For we are God's masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago. Ephesians 2:8-10

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table

What is your favorite refreshing summertime drink? Iced herbal or black tea? Iced coffee? How about a Banana Shake? Since my husband and I have been doing the Whole30 diet we’ve discovered a refreshing snack drink that Jerry often whips up for us. No added sugar, no dairy. Perfect!

Banana Shake
1 cup ice cubes
2 bananas
1 Tbsp Cocoa powder
1 tsp vanilla
About 2 cups of cold coconut milk or enough to cover ice and bananas in the blender

Add ingredients to blender, in order listed above. Puree. Pour into two glasses and enjoy!

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

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

Books by Mickey M. Hunacek

Available as e-books or paperbacks at Amazon.com

Parenting Day By Day - Daily Devotional for Building Character

Coins in the Bible: New Testament Stories

Thursday, September 1, 2022

Are You Waiting to See God’s Finished Product?

Are you and your family on a
path of truth that leads to God?
Kim and little Amelia hiking Badger Mr.

Prayer – Lord, I can’t imagine ever be embarrassed by You! Give me deeper insight into Your character in this scripture today…and lead me down a path of truth that leads right to You.

^1-2My head is high, God, held high; I’m looking to you, God; No hangdog skulking for me. ³I’ve thrown in my lot with you; You won’t embarrass me, will you? Or let my enemies get the best of me? Don’t embarrass any of us. Who went out on a limb for you. It’s the traitors who should be humiliated. ⁴Show me how you work, God; School me in your ways. ⁵Take me by the hand; Lead me down the path of truth. You are my Savior, aren’t you? ⁶Mark the milestones of your mercy and love, God; Rebuild the ancient landmarks! ⁷Forget that I sowed wild oats; Mark me with your sign of love. Plan only the best for me, God! ⁸God is fair and just; He corrects the misdirected, Sends them in the right direction. ⁹He gives the rejects his hand, and leads them step-by-step. ¹⁰From now on every road you travel will take you to God. Follow the Covenant signs; Read the charted directions. ¹¹Keep up your reputation, God; Forgive my bad life; It’s been a very bad life. ¹²My question: What are God-worshipers like? Your answer: Arrows aimed at God’s bull’s-eye. ¹³They settle down in a promising place; Their kids inherit a prosperous farm. ¹⁴God-friendship is for God-worshipers; They are the ones he confides in. ¹⁵If I keep my eyes on God, I won’t trip over my own feet. ¹⁶Look at me and help me! I’m all alone and in big trouble. ¹⁷My heart and mind are fighting each other; Call a truce to this civil war. ¹⁸Take a hard look at my life of hard labor, then lift this ton of sin. ¹⁹Do you see how many people Have it in for me? How viciously they hate me? ²⁰Keep watch over me and keep me out of trouble; Don’t let me down when I run to you. ²¹Use all your skill to put me together; I wait to see your finished product. ²²God, give your people a break from this run of bad luck. Psalm 25:1-22 MSG

Meditate. Think and pray about God leading you down the path of truth.

Mark me with your sign of love. Plan only the best for me, God! God is fair and just; He corrects the misdirected, sends them in the right direction. … If I keep my eyes on God, I won’t trip over my own feet. Look at me and help me! … Keep watch over me and keep me out of trouble; Don’t let me down when I run to you. Use all your skill to put me together; I wait to see your finished product.

Like most people…I just want the best. Give me Your best, Lord. That is my expectation of God. I like the idea that if I’m looking up to God, I won’t be tripping over my own feet…and probably not tripping over my tongue either. That tongue of mine can get me into trouble sometimes and I’m more concerned about what I say than tripping, although tripping leads to falling and we all know that is bad stuff for us older people! So, an added plea is to watch over me. God has done some pretty miraculous work creating human beings—but He isn’t finished with us yet.

I’m looking forward to exchanging this body that is wearing out for a glorified body like Christ’s. Can you imagine being able to walk into a room without opening a door?! Even after He was glorified, Jesus wanted and needed to eat. I like food—so I’m looking forward to continuing to eat well. Jesus was known by His disciples—although those two people on the road to Emmaus didn’t recognize Him until He broke bread with them. I find it encouraging that we will still know and be known by our Christian friends that we see after we are all glorified. I’m looking forward to serving the Lord—in whatever capacity He needs me in order to share and show His love. Does that mean that we will be marked with a sign of love? Who knows. At any rate, I am waiting to see God’s finished product.

Verses of Salvation ~ As God's partners, we beg you not to accept this marvelous gift of God's kindness and then ignore it. For God says, "At just the right time, I heard you. On the day of salvation, I helped you." Indeed, the "right time" is now. Today is the day of salvation. 2 Corinthians 6:1-2

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

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

Books by Mickey M. Hunacek

Available as e-books or paperbacks at Amazon.com

Parenting Day By Day - Daily Devotional for Building Character

Coins in the Bible: New Testament Stories