Banquet With The King

Monday, November 20, 2023

How To…Delight in God’s Word

Prayer – Lord, rescue me. I feel like that lost sheep as I’m drifting away—draw me back to You. Bring me closer and closer that I would not only hear Your precious words—but apply them to my life. You are merciful and full of grace. Thank You for all that You do to save those who are lost. Help us all to delight in Your word—for it is full of encouragement and comfort.

O LORD, listen to my cry; give me the discerning mind you promised. Listen to my prayer; rescue me as you promised. Let praise flow from my lips, for you have taught me your decrees. Let my tongue sing about your word, for all your commands are right. Give me a helping hand, for I have chosen to follow your commandments. O LORD, I have longed for your rescue, and your instructions are my delight. Let me live so I can praise you, and may your regulations help me. I have wandered away like a lost sheep; come and find me, for I have not forgotten your commands. Psalm 119:169-176

Meditate. Consider God’s guidance in scripture.

I have not forgotten Your commands. Some people may feel that the Ten Commandments are outdated and since they are part of the Old Testament, they are not important, but to me they are the very essence of life. Love God and love others. In this scripture below that Jesus spoke, it shows that God will do anything for those that are of His flock. He trusts that the ninety-nine will be obedient while He goes out to rescue that one lost sheep.

If a man has a hundred sheep and one of them wanders away, what will he do? Won't he leave the ninety-nine others on the hills and go out to search for the one that is lost? Matthew 18:12

Do you identify with that lost sheep…or with one of the ninety-nine who have already been rescued?

If you’ve been rescued, you know what it is to “delight” in God’s word—to savor it like a favorite comfort food. God’s word brings me such joy and peace. Yes, some of it is difficult to understand. God has hidden a mystery there for only those who are willing to really search His word to discover and appreciate it. Can you find God’s unknown message hidden there just for you? Will you delight in searching for it and discovering the treasure—like a pearl.

Again, the Kingdom of Heaven is like a merchant on the lookout for choice pearls. When he discovered a pearl of great value, he sold everything he owned and bought it! Matthew 13:45-46

Is God’s word like a precious gem to you?

Verses of Salvation ~ Then Paul and Barnabas spoke out boldly and declared, "It was necessary that we first preach the word of God to you Jews. But since you have rejected it and judged yourselves unworthy of eternal life, we will offer it to the Gentiles. For the Lord gave us this command when he said, 'I have made you a light to the Gentiles, to bring salvation to the farthest corners of the earth.'" When the Gentiles heard this, they were very glad and thanked the Lord for his message; and all who were chosen for eternal life became believers. Acts 13:46-48

Happy Birthday Sylvia!

Friends are a gift from God. I thank God for you.

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, November 19, 2023

How To…Read God’s Word

Prayer – Lord, I love to read Your word. Please give me wisdom and understanding…to know not only what You mean, but why and how it is applicable to my life.

Joshua then read to them all the blessings and curses Moses had written in the Book of Instruction. Every word of every command that Moses had ever given was read to the entire assembly of Israel, including the women and children and the foreigners who lived among them. Joshua 8:34-35

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

One of the ways to improve any relationship is by really knowing that person—that goes for knowing God, too. How do we know God? Know a person by reading what they’ve written. I’m part of a writers’ group—STORYWRITERS—and it is true that you learn a lot about people through their stories—whether fiction or memoirs.

Read God's word...
...in a language you can understand.
Scripture in Hebrew--
--as seen at the Yardenit baptism site--
--along the Jordan River. Israel.

God wants His word read…by leaders, kings, and anyone who can read. Additionally, He wants His word read to those who cannot read it for themselves. When the Israelites wanted a king to rule their nation, God gave them guidelines for their king. That included knowing God’s word by copying it for himself and frequently reading it. Note that knowing God’s word would give the king respect for God and prevent him from becoming too conceited and self-reliant. God had a plan for those kings.

When he sits on the throne as king, he must copy for himself this body of instruction on a scroll in the presence of the Levitical priests. He must always keep that copy with him and read it daily as long as he lives. That way he will learn to fear the LORD his God by obeying all the terms of these instructions and decrees. This regular reading will prevent him from becoming proud and acting as if he is above his fellow citizens. It will also prevent him from turning away from these commands in the smallest way. And it will ensure that he and his descendants will reign for many generations in Israel. Deuteronomy 17:18-20

Can you read? You must be able to if you are reading this. Ha! Are you willing and able to read God’s word? How about copying it for yourself as God required of His king? Considering that this is recorded in the book of Deuteronomy, the portion that they had at that time would only have been the Pentateuch—the first five books of the Old Testament written by Moses. Can you at least read those books? I’ve read them, but it has been a few years since I read through the entire Bible, so I am challenging myself to begin reading it again, soon. Why wait until January 1^st? Will you join me in this challenge? Put a comment in the box below.

Verses of Salvation ~ How long, O God, will you allow our enemies to insult you? Will you let them dishonor your name forever? Why do you hold back your strong right hand? Unleash your powerful fist and destroy them. You, O God, are my king from ages past, bringing salvation to the earth. Psalm 74:10-12

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

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Parenting Day By Day - Daily Devotional for Building Character

Coins in the Bible: New Testament Stories

Saturday, November 18, 2023

How To…Call on the Lord--in Scripture Prayer

Prayer ~ Dear Lord…You are my shepherd. You make me to lay down in green pastures, You lead me beside still water—where I am safe. You renew my strength. You guide me along right paths, bringing honor to Your name. Even when I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will not be afraid, for You are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me. You prepare a feast for me in the presence of my enemies. You honor me by anointing my head with oil. My cup overflows with blessings. 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 23:1-6 (adapted from NLT). Jesus—You are my Lord. I praise You. Thank You for delighting in me.

He rescued me from my powerful enemies, from those who hated me and were too strong for me. They attacked me at a moment when I was in distress, but the LORD supported me. He led me to a place of safety; He rescued me because He delights in me. The LORD rewarded me for doing right; He restored me because of my innocence. 2 Samuel 22:18-21

Meditate. Consider praying scripture.

Call upon the name of the Lord. Say “Jesus” out loud. There is power in the name of the Lord. Just as He rescued David from his enemies, including Saul, He will rescue you. He delights in you. Doesn’t that make you feel special just to know that someone delights in you? I am so glad to be known by Jesus…to be part of His family. Adopted into God’s family.

So now Jesus and the ones He makes holy have the same Father. That is why Jesus is not ashamed to call them His brothers and sisters. Hebrews 2:11.

Holy, pure…innocent. Do you see a common theme there? Because of Jesus’ journey to the Cross—His sacrifice—we are seen as holy before our Heavenly Father.

Call upon the name of Jesus. Just as Paul wrote to the Corinthians…you are holy.

I am writing to God's church in Corinth, to you who have been called by God to be His own holy people. He made you holy by means of Christ Jesus, just as He did for all people everywhere who call on the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, their Lord and ours. 1 Corinthians 1:2.

Key to Praying Scripture is to know the Word.

In the last few years I’ve learned that there is great power in praying scripture—and in quoting memorized verses.

Although I still remember my phone number from when I was a kid, I’ve always struggled with memorizing. With God's help, no one is too old to memorize scripture. We don’t know when we’ll be without our Bibles, so if you have scripture memorized—hidden in your heart—you have a great resources and power.

I have hidden your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you. Psalm 119:11.

As with David, there is a promise…the Lord will reward you for doing right. Memorize His Word—and use it in a prayer to Him.

Verses of Salvation ~ Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good! His faithful love endures forever. Cry out, "Save us, O God of our salvation! Gather and rescue us from among the nations, so we can thank your holy name and rejoice and praise you." 1 Chronicles 16:34-35

Revised and reused from March 6, 2017 "Banquet With The King" blog

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

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Parenting Day By Day - Daily Devotional for Building Character

Coins in the Bible: New Testament Stories

Friday, November 17, 2023

How To…Pray – Part 3

Prayer – Lord, there are so many needs—so many prayers—and so little time. Help me to prioritize. Thank you for all you do in my life.

Devote yourselves to prayer with an alert mind and a thankful heart. Colossians 4:2

Meditate. Pray.

Can you devote yourself to prayer? Can you spend 10, 30, 60 minutes in prayer? How about a half day—or even a whole day? Try to make it a habit of praying for 10 minutes each day…and then increase that time by a couple of minutes each week until you are praying for a longer amount of time. Can you actually steward your time like you do your money giving 10% of your time to the Lord?

Jesus spent hours—even in the middle of the night—praying to God the Father. He prayed before making any big decisions.

One day soon afterward (after healing a man on the Sabbath) Jesus went up on a mountain to pray, and he prayed to God all night. At daybreak he called together all of his disciples and chose twelve of them to be apostles. Luke 6:12-13

Praying scripture. Do you think that Jesus prayed scripture as He spoke with His Father? We don’t know. But we do know that we can pray scripture. Try it for yourself. Here’s a verse to encourage you.

So we keep on praying for you, asking our God to enable you to live a life worthy of his call. May he give you the power to accomplish all the good things your faith prompts you to do. Then the name of our Lord Jesus will be honored because of the way you live, and you will be honored along with him. This is all made possible because of the grace of our God and Lord, Jesus Christ. 2 Thessalonians 1:11-12

I’m praying for each of you as you read this blog.

Lord, may those reading this blog live their lives honoring You as You give them the power to successfully achieve all the things You desire for them to do through their faith in You. May they feel the prompting of the Holy Spirit to do whatever it is that You want them to do—honoring You with their very lives. All things are possible with You, Lord God, through Your grace.

Prayer. Are you at a loss for words. Prayer is merely talking with the Lord—but it is so much more. It is connecting in a relational way to the very creator of the Universe who love you and wants you to know and love Him. Can we do any less? Can we do more than is expected of us? Who do you want to please today? Yourself or God? How, when, and where do you pray?

Verses of Salvation ~ 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. For "Everyone who calls on the name of the LORD will be saved." Romans 10:9-13

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table

Craving carbs? Time for some pancakes. Gluten-free, dairy free, and egg free. This is breakfast with a couple of my Grandchildren today!

Free Zone Pancakes for the Family

2 cups gluten free flour

1 Tbsp baking powder

1 tsp baking soda

½ tsp salt

¼ cup honey or sugar

Egg substitute equaling 2 eggs (2 Tbsp Egg Replacer with 4 Tbsp water, or ½ cup mashed banana, applesauce or pureed pumpkin, 2 Tbsp Chia Seeds in 6 Tbsp water)

1¾ cup almond, oat or coconut milk (may substitute 1 for 1 amount plain yogurt)

1½ tsp vanilla

4 Tbsp plant butter or coconut or olive oil

Mix dry ingredients. Mix liquid ingredients. Stir the two together and cook your pancakes on a griddle or non-stick skillet on medium heat melting a small amount of the butter in the pan before adding about 1/3 cup of the batter. Cook two to three minutes per side—flipping only once. Keep the pancakes warm in a 170 degree oven until all of the pancakes are cooked and ready to serve with maple syrup or fresh fruit.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY - LINDSEY J. - BLESSINGS~

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

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Parenting Day By Day - Daily Devotional for Building Character

Coins in the Bible: New Testament Stories

Thursday, November 16, 2023

How To…Pray – Part 2

Prayer – Lord, I know You hear my prayers. Please grant me the desires of my heart—answer my prayers for mercy, peace, strength, hope and love for those of my family, friends, neighbors and associates for whom I have prayed. You know what I ask for…even before I ask it, but sometimes it is hard to have the silence of “Wait” or to grasp that You’ve just said “No” when I thought my request was honorable, pure, and lovely. For now…dear brother, Jesus…one final thing. I have fixed my thoughts (and prayers) on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. I’m thinking about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. Philippians 4:8. Those are things that I’m requesting…and that would honor You. Like Jabez, please bless me and expand my territory. I know You are with me always—please keep me—as well as my family and friends—from all trouble and pain. I recognize that You use all things—allowing them to work together—to bring You glory as part of Your big plan. It is just hard to expect a miracle and not get one. Thank you anyway. I praise You for You are an awesome God. You are my God. Please grant me wisdom and insight into how to pray.

Expand my territory....
Camel Crossing in the Judean Desert.
Israel

There was a man named Jabez who was more honorable than any of his brothers. His mother named him Jabez because his birth had been so painful. He was the one who prayed to the God of Israel, "Oh, that you would bless me and expand my territory! Please be with me in all that I do, and keep me from all trouble and pain!" And God granted him his request. 1 Chronicles 4:9-10

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

God is listening to us. Are we listening to Him? We are assured that God hears our prayers. A couple of these verses below also tell us that He answers prayers. Above all else I think that is what people want to hear…that God answers prayers.

The LORD heard Elijah's prayer, and the life of the child returned, and he revived! 1 Kings 17:22

So we fasted and earnestly prayed that our God would take care of us, and he heard our prayer. Ezra 8:23

May we shout for joy when we hear of your victory and raise a victory banner in the name of our God. May the LORD answer all your prayers. Psalm 20:5

You faithfully answer our prayers with awesome deeds, O God our savior. You are the hope of everyone on earth, even those who sail on distant seas. Psalm 65:5

And you are helping us by praying for us. Then many people will give thanks because God has graciously answered so many prayers for our safety. 2 Corinthians 1:11

It is hard to understand why some people have to suffer in life. It seems so unfair—especially when children are involved. Can we rationalize that even children have that “sin nature” that Adam and Eve are credited with causing when they ate the forbidden fruit? No matter from whom that suffering originates, it is evident around the world. The war in Israel now brings that to our attention. The wounding, torturing, kidnapping, and murder of innocent civilians just isn’t fair. Pray for them. War is futile, but it seems to be God’s way of ultimately purifying humanity.

Pray. Do you believe that God hears your prayers? What gives you that assurance…or doubt? Share with others reading this blog by commenting in the box below.

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

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Parenting Day By Day - Daily Devotional for Building Character

Coins in the Bible: New Testament Stories

Wednesday, November 15, 2023

How To…Pray

Prayer – Lord, teach me to pray the effective prayer of a servant. I long to please You in everything I think, say, and do.

Once Jesus was in a certain place praying. As he finished, one of his disciples came to him and said, "Lord, teach us to pray, just as John taught his disciples." Jesus said, "This is how you should pray: Father, may your name be kept holy. May your Kingdom come soon. Give us each day the food we need, and forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who sin against us. And don't let us yield to temptation." Luke 11:1-4

Meditate. Pray.

When I was in the sixth grade my Sunday School class met around a big table in the middle of the kitchen at the church we attended. The lesson I remember the most was one on the Lord’s Prayer—that prayer that Jesus taught His disciples to pray. Our teacher, Virginia Howe, made a profound statement that I’ve pondered and treasured all these years. She said, “The daily bread (KJV) could be spiritual food, as well as the food on our tables at each meal.” Spiritual food! Yes, that is the bread of life that we “eat” each time we read God’s Word. Spiritual food? Should we be eating that three times a day as well? Spiritual Food. Can we share that with others—just like we share our physical food—breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks? What does spiritual food look like? Is it just scripture—or can it be songs, hymns, and prayers, too? That is a lot of food for thought. Such an appropriate lesson to be learned in a kitchen.

There is so much in the Bible about prayers that thousands of books have literally been written about it, but God has a plan—and Jesus fulfilled that plan—including teaching us about prayer. The book of James gives us some more specific ideas.

Are any of you suffering hardships? You should pray. Are any of you happy? You should sing praises. Are any of you sick? You should call for the elders of the church to come and pray over you, anointing you with oil in the name of the Lord. Such a prayer offered in faith will heal the sick, and the Lord will make you well. And if you have committed any sins, you will be forgiven. Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and produces wonderful results. James 5:13-16

In a Bible Study as an adult, I learned the acrostic, ACTS, associated with prayer. It was instrumental in the growth of my own prayer life.

A is for Adoration

C is for Confession

T is for Thankfulness

S is for Supplications

Using this acrostic as a format for daily prayers helps those new to a dedicated prayer life…and serves as a reminder for those who have been praying for what may seem like an eternity already! We are continually reminded—especially as we get closer to Christmas—that we do “adore” the Lord our God—and He is worthy of our glory, honor, and praise. Confession is always good for the soul. Have you confessed to God today the things you’ve done that you know are not respectful towards Him or how you’ve offended Him or others? We are to confess our sins, one to another. (See James 5:16.) In all things, we are told in Paul’s letter to the church at Thessalonica that we should always give thanks in all situations (1Thessolonians 5:18). Supplications. The "I wanna" in your prayer. So often it is asking God for a healing touch to someone who is ailing, or for Him to provide safety, security, or even financial support. How do these elements of prayer affect your relationship with our Lord God? Do your prayers draw you closer to the Lord? Prayer is communication—and God likes to have His scripture—His words prayed back to Him. Have you ever tried using scripture as the basis—the very words—of your prayers? In our prayers we all ask for things or situations to happen and we are assured of God’s power and love throughout His word.

God can do all things. Nothing is impossible for Him, but He does want us to pray to honor Him, to seek repentance—even for the small things in life, to express our gratitude, and to let Him know our needs—although He already knows what we need before we even ask. Jesus mentioned that right before He taught the Lord’s Prayer, as recorded in Matthew.

When you pray, don't babble on and on as people of other religions do. They think their prayers are answered merely by repeating their words again and again. Don't be like them, for your Father knows exactly what you need even before you ask him! Matthew 6:7-8

So, don’t babble and ramble on and on. Say what you mean. Talk to God as you would a friend—because like Abraham, we can be called a “friend” of God.

And so it happened just as the Scriptures say: "Abraham believed God, and God counted him as righteous because of his faith." He was even called the friend of God. James 2:23

How do you pray? ACTS helps—but just talk to God the Father, to Jesus, and to the Holy Spirit as your beloved and adored friend. Remember, as James wrote…the earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and produces wonderful results. James 5:16. So, sincerely give some serious thought to your prayers and praise God from whom all blessings flow.

Verse of Salvation ~ Dear brothers and sisters, the longing of my heart and my prayer to God is for the people of Israel to be saved. I know what enthusiasm they have for God, but it is misdirected zeal. For they don't understand God's way of making people right with himself. Refusing to accept God's way, they cling to their own way of getting right with God by trying to keep the law. For Christ has already accomplished the purpose for which the law was given. As a result, all who believe in him are made right with God. Romans 10:1-4

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

Tuesday, November 14, 2023

How To…FORGIVE

Prayer – Lord, forgive us our debts…as we forgive our debtors. Forgiveness is so important to my relationship with You, Lord God. Forgive me for not being more forgiving to others. You have forgiven me for so much.

Then Peter came to him and asked, "Lord, how often should I forgive someone who sins against me? Seven times?" "No, not seven times," Jesus replied, "but seventy times seven!" Matthew 18:21-22

Meditate. Feel God’s presence and forgiveness in your life.

As Jesus taught His disciples…and us…to pray, He included a phrase about forgiving those who sin against us.

Pray like this: Our Father in heaven, may your name be kept holy. May your Kingdom come soon. May your will be done on earth, as it is in heaven. Give us today the food we need, and forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who sin against us. And don't let us yield to temptation, but rescue us from the evil one. If you forgive those who sin against you, your heavenly Father will forgive you. But if you refuse to forgive others, your Father will not forgive your sins. Matthew 6:9-15 (Underlined for emphasis.)

That is pretty strong. If someone denies asking for forgiveness, God won’t forgive them. Whoa! That is a sad thing. No forgiveness from God is an eternal death sentence. Remember one must be pure to stand before God—and sin blocks purity. That purity is only ours if we ask for forgiveness from God. The ultimate choice is ours.

Just as Peter asked about the number of times to forgive (see Matthew 18), Jesus addressed that issue with His disciples in the book of Luke.

Is someone toxic--
--like these poisonous mushrooms?

Even if that person wrongs you seven times a day and each time turns again and asks forgiveness, you must forgive. Luke 17:4

Shortly before His ascension Jesus told His followers that the Messiah was to suffer, die, and be resurrected. That happened. The Messiah is Jesus. He also talked about forgiveness.

It was also written that this message would be proclaimed in the authority of his name to all the nations, beginning in Jerusalem: 'There is forgiveness of sins for all who repent.' Luke 24:47

James and Paul challenge us to help others—to be forgiving and to be involved in rescuing them from death—eternal death.

Make allowance for each other's faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. Colossians 3:13

My dear brothers and sisters, if someone among you wanders away from the truth and is brought back, you can be sure that whoever brings the sinner back will save that person from death and bring about the forgiveness of many sins. James 5:19-20

Forgiveness is a big deal. It is an integral part of any good relationship—with God or with others. How to do it? Basically, with God, get down on your knees and ask for forgiveness. Repent. With others? It will depend on the relationship and what exactly needs to be addressed. Face-to-face conversation is always best, but via FaceTime, just a phone call, even a text message or an e-mail is acceptable. There are no hard and fast rules—just humbling your heart before others is a good way to start. Prayer is often a key to forgiveness. Ask God to give you wisdom and the proper words to say. Consider if you have to forgive others and offer that forgiveness to them, too. Make allowances for each other’s faults…even your own.

If you have any suggestions, please write a comment in the Post a Comment box below and let others know how you have dealt with forgiveness in your life. Blessings ~

Verse of Salvation ~ Help us, O God of our salvation! Help us for the glory of your name. Save us and forgive our sins for the honor of your name. Psalm 79:9

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