Banquet With The King

Friday, March 7, 2025

Where Do You Find Jesus in Psalms?

Where do you find Jesus in the book of Psalms? Anywhere you look! There are about 706 verses in just the book of Psalms that contain the word “LORD” in the New Living Translation. Jesus is definitely throughout the Old Testament. David gave his son Solomon good advice about seeking the LORD that is good for us even today.

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 (Underlined for emphasis.)

Interestingly, David wrote most of the Psalms and in his wisdom, he continually pleaded with and sought the LORD with all of his heart. He was known as a man after God’s own heart. He is in the lineage of Jesus according to God’s promises.

Out of the stump of David's family will grow a shoot--yes, a new Branch bearing fruit from the old root. And the Spirit of the LORD will rest on him--the Spirit of wisdom and understanding, the Spirit of counsel and might, the Spirit of knowledge and the fear of the LORD. He will delight in obeying the LORD. He will not judge by appearance nor make a decision based on hearsay. He will give justice to the poor and make fair decisions for the exploited. The earth will shake at the force of his word, and one breath from his mouth will destroy the wicked. ... In that day the heir to David's throne will be a banner of salvation to all the world. The nations will rally to him, and the land where he lives will be a glorious place. Isaiah 11:1-4, 10

Jesus is that banner of salvation for us. We are promised that the LORD will answer when I call to him. Keep looking and searching for Him. The answer to your prayers may not be what you want or expect from the LORD, but He has a plan and he still wants us to trust Him. I appreciated the verses below that said… Don't sin by letting anger control you. Think about it overnight and remain silent. That is wise advice. Blowing up in anger never seems to make the situation better…and I’ve found that it just makes me look like a fool—so as James and Peter advice in the New Testament…control your tongue. The Lord will help you with that. He has brought that to my attention…and helped me, but I still need to His wisdom and grace to really control my tongue.

If you claim to be religious but don't control your tongue, you are fooling yourself, and your religion is worthless. James 1:26

For the Scriptures say, "If you want to enjoy life and see many happy days, keep your tongue from speaking evil and your lips from telling lies. 1 Peter 3:10

Where are you finding Jesus and His help with the conflicts and struggles in your life today?

You can be sure of this: The LORD set apart the godly for himself. The LORD will answer when I call to him. Don't sin by letting anger control you. Think about it overnight and remain silent. Offer sacrifices in the right spirit, and trust the LORD. Many people say, "Who will show us better times?" Let your face smile on us, LORD. You have given me greater joy than those who have abundant harvests of grain and new wine. In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, O LORD, will keep me safe. Psalm 4:3-8

Prayer – Lord Jesus, I need You every hour. Control my heart, my thoughts, and today most of all, my tongue! May the words You hear be in honor of You. I trust You with my life—everything I think, say, and do. Glory to You.

Meditate. Consider God’s guidance and promises in scripture.

Verses of Salvation ~ Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and make me willing to obey you. Then I will teach your ways to rebels, and they will return to you. Forgive me for shedding blood, O God who saves; then I will joyfully sing of your forgiveness. Unseal my lips, O Lord, that my mouth may praise you. You do not desire a sacrifice, or I would offer one. You do not want a burnt offering. The sacrifice you desire is a broken spirit. You will not reject a broken and repentant heart, O God. Psalm 51:12-17

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table

So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. 1 Corinthians 10:31

Edible nasturtium blossom.
Add to a salad--nibble and enjoy!

What food brings God glory? I have always thought that we are honoring God by eating food we raise ourselves. We can only do that if we farm or garden! Time to get some plants started inside because before long it will be time to put those precious plants into the garden.

It is time to plan and get ready to 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. I recently gave one of my granddaughters some nasturtium seeds for her birthday and we look forward to sharing those in a salad this summer before they go to seed!

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 freaky spring frosts, so it is best to wait until mid-May before actually planting seeds outdoors. They can be started indoors now and transplanted in May. 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, grocery, hardware, big box home improvement store or on-line mail-order nursery. 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 and Herbs

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 crackers.

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

Pansy – use flowers in salads or desserts.

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. Give Him glory and honor as you feast on His creation.

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

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Thursday, March 6, 2025

How’s Your Memory? Who is the Shepherd?

Psalm 23 is probably the best-known Psalm. Did you memorize it as a kid—if not you might want to try to memorize it now? Years ago when my Mom was dying, she wanted me to recite that Psalm. I ended up singing it from memory because it was one of the first songs I learned in Junior Choir.

The shepherd in that scripture is Jesus. If you were looking for Him in this book of the Bible, you’ve found Him. Volumes of books have been written based on this scripture passage that can go much deeper in thought and analysis of this Psalm of David.

LORD Jesus is my shepherd. I’m that one sheep that got lost, drifted away from the flock—and He left the other 99 sheep and came out into a storm and found me. Brought me home. I am grateful for that.

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? And if he finds it, I tell you the truth, he will rejoice over it more than over the ninety-nine that didn't wander away! In the same way, it is not my heavenly Father's will that even one of these little ones should perish. Matthew 18:12-14

Jesus is the great shepherd providing everything His sheep need—green pastures where there is plenty to eat, safe water in which to drink not drown, rest, strength, peace, and a safe path to follow with His guidance, reassurance and protection so there is no fear. Additionally, we can count on Jesus to provide good food right there with one’s enemies—whether those or physical or spiritual foes. He provides a blessing and anointing with a promise of love and eternal life.

Is Jesus the shepherd of your life? Are you allowing Him to guide, protect and provide for you—or do you just like to do everything for yourself? The choice is yours.

The LORD is my shepherd; I have all that I need. He lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peaceful streams. He renews my strength. He guides me along right paths, bringing honor to his name. Even when I walk through the darkest valley, 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

Prayer – Lord Jesus, You are my gracious shepherd and I long to see You face to face one day. In the meantime—please continue to guide me down the right path—Your path where I can even face terrible disappointments and death, fearless because You are with me. Thank You for providing everything I need.

Meditate. Consider the overall protection and love of the Shepherd.

Verses of Salvation ~ O LORD, I give my life to you. I trust in you, my God! Do not let me be disgraced, or let my enemies rejoice in my defeat. No one who trusts in you will ever be disgraced, but disgrace comes to those who try to deceive others. Show me the right path, O LORD; point out the road for me to follow. Lead me by your truth and teach me, for you are the God who saves me. All day long I put my hope in you. Remember, O LORD, your compassion and unfailing love, which you have shown from long ages past. Psalm 25:1-6

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

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Wednesday, March 5, 2025

Have You Heard What He Has Done?

Water. Blood. Tears. What does this describe?

There are sheep beside a stream of water in Psalm 23. It is probably the best known and loved Psalm and it directly points us to Jesus, but have you read, and considered the significance of Psalm 22? It is prophetic of Jesus on the cross written about 1,000 years before His crucifixion. He was the Passover sacrificial lamb whose blood finally redeemed the sins of all mankind, beginning with Adam and Eve.

Sculpture of Jesus' journey to the Cross
Church of Holy Sepulchre
Jerusalem, Israel

Jesus called out to our Heavenly Father while He was on the cross, as recorded in the New Testament book of Matthew.

At about three o'clock, Jesus called out with a loud voice, "Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?" which means "My God, my God, why have you abandoned me?" Matthew 27:46

Why? Why would God Almighty abandon or forsake His own Son? The best answer I’ve heard is that God didn’t give up on Jesus, He just turned His back on the sin. The horrific sin of man. God is pure—and it requires purity to be in His presence. We have the promise of Jesus—in Deuteronomy and repeated in Hebrews that He will never leave us or forsake us. He won’t abandon us. What an assurance.

Consider how Jesus suffered even before He was nailed to the cross. He was beaten, spit upon, and humiliated. That continued on the cross. Read the description in Psalm 22 and compare it with scripture describing His crucifixion in Matthew 27:27-44; Mark 15:21-32; Luke 23:26-49; and John 19:17-37. Prophecy fulfilled. Different translations finish off Psalm 22 with various phrases, but look at what is written there…that every one will hear about what He has done. And in His dying words, Jesus said, “It is finished.” (John 19:30) He completed what He came to earth to accomplish.

At that very time, Jesus cured many people of their diseases, illnesses, and evil spirits, and he restored sight to many who were blind. Then he told John's disciples, "Go back to John and tell him what you have seen and heard—the blind see, the lame walk, the lepers are cured, the deaf hear, the dead are raised to life, and the Good News is being preached to the poor. And tell him, 'God blesses those who do not turn away because of me.'" Luke 7:21-23

Jesus came to take away the sins of the world—and give everlasting life to those who believe in Him. He fulfilled that on the cross. Have you heard what He has done? Do you believe?

My God, my God, why have you abandoned me? Why are you so far away when I groan for help? Every day I call to you, my God, but you do not answer. Every night you hear my voice, but I find no relief. Yet you are holy, enthroned on the praises of Israel. ... Everyone who sees me mocks me. They sneer and shake their heads, saying, "Is this the one who relies on the LORD? Then let the LORD save him! If the LORD loves him so much, let the LORD rescue him!" ... Do not stay so far from me, for trouble is near, and no one else can help me. ... My life is poured out like water, and all my bones are out of joint. My heart is like wax, melting within me. My strength has dried up like sunbaked clay. My tongue sticks to the roof of my mouth. You have laid me in the dust and left me for dead. My enemies surround me like a pack of dogs; an evil gang closes in on me. They have pierced my hands and feet. I can count all my bones. My enemies stare at me and gloat. They divide my garments among themselves and throw dice for my clothing. O LORD, do not stay far away! You are my strength; come quickly to my aid! ... Praise the LORD, all you who fear him! Honor him, all you descendants of Jacob! Show him reverence, all you descendants of Israel! For he has not ignored or belittled the suffering of the needy. He has not turned his back on them, but has listened to their cries for help. I will praise you in the great assembly. I will fulfill my vows in the presence of those who worship you. ... The whole earth will acknowledge the LORD and return to him. All the families of the nations will bow down before him. For royal power belongs to the LORD. He rules all the nations. ... His righteous acts will be told to those not yet born. They will hear about everything he has done. Psalm 22:1-3, 7-8, 11, 14-19, 23-25, 27-28, 31

Prayer – Lord Jesus, You are amazing, awesome, and humbly obedient. Thank You. I bow before You now and always, for You are my God…my Messiah. Savior of the world. King of kings. Lord of Lords. You are my hope.

Meditate. Read God’s word and analyze what He is saying. Who? What? Where? When? How?

Verse of Salvation ~ After this I saw a vast crowd, too great to count, from every nation and tribe and people and language, standing in front of the throne and before the Lamb. They were clothed in white robes and held palm branches in their hands. And they were shouting with a great roar, "Salvation comes from our God who sits on the throne and from the Lamb!" Revelation 7:9-10

Ash Wednesday - Consider what Jesus gave up for you.

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

Tuesday, March 4, 2025

Jesus in the Psalms

One of the most likely places to find the LORD in the Old Testament is the Book of Psalms. Right to begin with, He is there in Psalm 1. The LORD watches over the path of the godly. That’s the path we want to be on—the one that the LORD is looking out for those who are seeking Him and choosing to obey. Those are the godly people. I cannot say that I’m always on the right path, but I am striving less and trusting God more day by day. I am determined to seek God in His word—and meditate on it continually—finding joy in His law.

Trees along the Columbia River at Richland, WA.

Trees grow and give us great fruit when they are watered regularly. That is especially true here in the semi-desert area of the Columbia Basin where we get less than ten inches of rain a year. We need water. Likewise, we need water—the living water that Jesus provides—in order to grow and mature spiritually. How are you doing with that? Have you fetched a bucket of “living water” today and immersed yourself in Jesus—in God’s word?

Oh, the joys of those who do not follow the advice of the wicked, or stand around with sinners, or join in with mockers. But they delight in the law of the LORD, meditating on it day and night. They are like trees planted along the riverbank, bearing fruit each season. Their leaves never wither, and they prosper in all they do. But not the wicked! They are like worthless chaff, scattered by the wind. They will be condemned at the time of judgment. Sinners will have no place among the godly. For the LORD watches over the path of the godly, but the path of the wicked leads to destruction. Psalm 1:1-6

Prayer – Lord, guide me to the right path—the one You are watching over. I trust in You with all my heart, and I try not to lean on my own understanding, but in everything I do, I see You working in my life and I acknowledge that. I’m seeking Your will and trusting You to show me what path to take as I take joy in following Your laws. Thank You.

Meditate. Consider God’s promises and protection in scripture.

Verses of Salvation ~ In that day you will sing: "I will praise you, O LORD! You were angry with me, but not any more. Now you comfort me. See, God has come to save me. I will trust in him and not be afraid. The LORD GOD is my strength and my song; he has given me victory." With joy you will drink deeply from the fountain of salvation! Isaiah 12:1-3

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

Monday, March 3, 2025

How Do You See God Working In Your Life?

Where is the LORD in Job? Amazingly the LORD is found in 23 verses in the Book of Job. That is surprising since the Book of Job is the oldest book in the Bible—but then maybe not so surprising since it begins with a challenge to God from Satan and is focused on discussions between God, Job, and Job’s friends as they deal with the question in all of our minds—why do righteous men suffer if God is a God of mercy? Read the book for yourself and see what you think?

Job had 3,000 camels. He was a rich man!

The first attack, or test, on Job was that his cattle, camels, and servants were attacked and killed by nomadic Bedouins, his sheep and more servants were killed by fire from heaven, and his children were killed when the house they were in fell on them during a great windstorm. Sad and in mourning Job did not curse God as Satan had hoped.

Job stood up and tore his robe in grief. Then he shaved his head and fell to the ground to worship. He said, "I came naked from my mother's womb, and I will be naked when I leave. The LORD gave me what I had, and the LORD has taken it away. Praise the name of the LORD!" In all of this, Job did not sin by blaming God. Job 1:20-22 NLT

Would any of us react as Job did? He was truly a devout and righteous man, one seeking God’s own heart. He was recognizing the LORD’s provision in his life…providing and taking away. That LORD, we can assume was Jesus Himself. Towards the end of the encounter Job listens to the LORD who speaks to him from a whirlwind and then Job repents. He praises the LORD—as we all should continually.

Then Job replied to the LORD: "I know that you can do anything, and no one can stop you. You asked, 'Who is this that questions my wisdom with such ignorance?' It is I--and I was talking about things I knew nothing about, things far too wonderful for me. You said, 'Listen and I will speak! I have some questions for you, and you must answer them.' I had only heard about you before, but now I have seen you with my own eyes. I take back everything I said, and I sit in dust and ashes to show my repentance." Job 42:1-6

Eventually, the LORD God blessed Job with ten children again, and with double the number of cattle and animals he had previously had. Can we see God in things that are happening to us? That is a very important thing for which to look for every day. How do you see God working in your life?

There once was a man named Job who lived in the land of Uz. He was blameless—a man of complete integrity. He feared God and stayed away from evil. ... One day the members of the heavenly court came to present themselves before the LORD, and the Accuser, Satan, came with them. "Where have you come from?" the LORD asked Satan. Satan answered the LORD, "I have been patrolling the earth, watching everything that's going on." Then the LORD asked Satan, "Have you noticed my servant Job? He is the finest man in all the earth. He is blameless—a man of complete integrity. He fears God and stays away from evil." Satan replied to the LORD, "Yes, but Job has good reason to fear God. You have always put a wall of protection around him and his home and his property. You have made him prosper in everything he does. Look how rich he is! But reach out and take away everything he has, and he will surely curse you to your face!" "All right, you may test him," the LORD said to Satan. "Do whatever you want with everything he possesses, but don't harm him physically." So Satan left the LORD's presence. Job 1:1, 6-12

Prayer – Lord God, as we look at Job we think…but by the grace of God go I. You could do the same thing to any of us…allowing Satan to test us. Please protect us from evil, just as Jesus taught His disciples to pray…deliver us from evil…in the Lord’s Prayer (Matthew 6:9-13). We have enough troubles in our lives day to day just living without being tested by the evil one—so in Your divine mercy—protect us, guide us, and keep us under Your wings like the mother her keeps her chicks and You so vividly wrote in Matthew 22:37. Thank You for Your love and mercy. We praise You for the hope that You give us.

Meditate. Consider God’s love, power, and guidance in your life.

Verses of Salvation ~ (Job speaks to his friends and then to God.) But this is what will save me—I am not godless. If I were, I could not stand before him. Listen closely to what I am about to say. Hear me out. I have prepared my case; I will be proved innocent. Who can argue with me over this? And if you prove me wrong, I will remain silent and die. "O God, grant me these two things, and then I will be able to face you. Remove your heavy hand from me, and don't terrify me with your awesome presence. Now summon me, and I will answer! Or let me speak to you, and you reply. Tell me, what have I done wrong? Show me my rebellion and my sin.” Job 13:16-23

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

Sunday, March 2, 2025

Can You Be Compassionate?

Whose shoes will you walk in?
Can you be compassionate?

How many people with mental illness or drug addictions do you see in your community today? How can you help them?

I recently went to a “Unite for Recovery Breakfast” which was a fund raiser for the Columbia Valley Center for Recovery that will provide comprehensive substance use disorder and mental health services in a 48-bed facility. It also will have a family meeting area, as well as exercise and computer facilities. The services they provide will play a vital role in the long-term social and economic wellbeing for the community of over 300,000 people where it is located and will certainly service an even greater outlying area. See www.509recovery.org for more information or to provide a donation.

So, how can we help those who have mental illness or drug additions in our community? Give financially, with volunteer hours, and in prayer. I’m convinced that all things begin to improve when intentional and heartfelt prayers are offered to our Lord. We need to speak up for those in need.

I had heard a long time ago that the Book of Esther in the Bible is the only book that the Lord is not in, but after rereading it again, searching for even a reference to the LORD, I found that like Jesus, Mordecai spoke up for the welfare of his people. He was compassionate, just as Jesus was. We can also take on that quality in our lives and offer help to those in need. Trust God. If you are willing, He will open doors for you to help others. You can be compassionate.

Mordecai the Jew became the prime minister, with authority next to that of King Xerxes himself. He was very great among the Jews, who held him in high esteem, because he continued to work for the good of his people and to speak up for the welfare of all their descendants. Esther 10:3 NLT

Prayer – Lord, like You…and as we see in Mordecai…help us to be compassionate and speak up for the welfare of others.

Meditate. Consider Jesus qualities and how we see those characteristics in others.

Verse of Salvation ~ For it is by grace [God's remarkable compassion and favor drawing you to Christ] that you have been saved [actually delivered from judgment and given eternal life] through faith. And this [salvation] is not of yourselves [not through your own effort], but it is the [undeserved, gracious] gift of God…. Ephesians 2:8 AMP

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

Scripture quotations taken from the Amplified® Bible (AMP),

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Coins in the Bible: New Testament Stories

Saturday, March 1, 2025

March – New Month – New Beginnings

Sandhill Cranes migrating North.
Spring is on its way!

Spring is on its way! The Sandhill Cranes were flying overhead yesterday! We can only hope that winter is over! Hope! That is what life is all about for I’d say…most people. Hope. What gives you hope? My hope is in Jesus Christ, my Lord and Savior.

Having a “Lord” in the life of a resident of the United States is not politically something to which we easily relate. “Lords” are sort of a British or possibly Middle Eastern ruling class thing. Who reigns over your life—or are you so totally self-sufficient that you don’t rely on anyone else?

Continuing to look for Jesus in the Old Testament I’ve found Him as the redeemer for Israel as they rebuilt the wall around Jerusalem as recorded in the Book of Nehemiah.

Is that “rebuilding” related in any way to the “rebuilding” or renewing of our covenant with God in our own hearts? The Israelites rebuilt the wall under Nehemiah’s guidance and then with Ezra, the priest, they rededicated their lives to the LORD. That was a big deal.

Then Nehemiah the governor, Ezra the priest and scribe, and the Levites who were interpreting for the people said to them, "Don't mourn or weep on such a day as this! For today is a sacred day before the LORD your God." For the people had all been weeping as they listened to the words of the Law. And Nehemiah continued, "Go and celebrate with a feast of rich foods and sweet drinks, and share gifts of food with people who have nothing prepared. This is a sacred day before our Lord. Don't be dejected and sad, for the joy of the LORD is your strength!" And the Levites, too, quieted the people, telling them, "Hush! Don't weep! For this is a sacred day." So the people went away to eat and drink at a festive meal, to share gifts of food, and to celebrate with great joy because they had heard God's words and understood them. Nehemiah 8:9-12

Ezra gave them hope and encouragement…the joy of the Lord is your strength. We can claim that promise, too. The Lord gives us hope, joy, peace, strength when we need it. When we need Him, He is always with us. Actually, He has given us all of the fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control and we have those to fight against our enemies like—depression, anger, disappointment, loss, frustration, sadness, guilt, unmet expectations, and eventually, death. Jesus is my eternal hope. Is He yours? You can begin a new season with a reason—and find your hope in the Savior.

Then as I looked over the situation, I called together the nobles and the rest of the people and said to them, "Don't be afraid of the enemy! Remember the Lord, who is great and glorious, and fight for your brothers, your sons, your daughters, your wives, and your homes!" When our enemies heard that we knew of their plans and that God had frustrated them, we all returned to our work on the wall. But from then on, only half my men worked while the other half stood guard with spears, shields, bows, and coats of mail. The leaders stationed themselves behind the people of Judah who were building the wall. The laborers carried on their work with one hand supporting their load and one hand holding a weapon. …When you hear the blast of the trumpet, rush to wherever it is sounding. Then our God will fight for us!" Nehemiah 4:14-17, 20

Then the leaders of the Levites—Jeshua, Kadmiel, Bani, Hashabneiah, Sherebiah, Hodiah, Shebaniah, and Pethahiah—called out to the people: "Stand up and praise the LORD your God, for he lives from everlasting to everlasting!" Then they prayed: "May your glorious name be praised! May it be exalted above all blessing and praise! "You alone are the LORD. You made the skies and the heavens and all the stars. You made the earth and the seas and everything in them. You preserve them all, and the angels of heaven worship you. Nehemiah 9:5-6

Prayer – Lord, it was Your plan for the wall to be rebuilt around Jerusalem, to bring the Jewish Babylonian captives back to the Promised Land…and You were there with them. Please rebuild the wall surrounding our hearts and lives that we would see Your strength and love as You fight for us—defeating the enemies of our very souls. Thank you.

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

Verses of Salvation ~ In that day, everyone in the land of Judah will sing this song: Our city is strong! We are surrounded by the walls of God's salvation. Open the gates to all who are righteous; allow the faithful to enter. You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you! Trust in the LORD always, for the LORD GOD is the eternal Rock. Isaiah 26:1-4 (Underlined for emphasis.)

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