Banquet With The King

Tuesday, August 12, 2025

Are Your Clothes Wearing Out From Washing Them?

Are your clothes or shoes
wearing out?
Maybe like the Israelites...
Our new heavenly ones will last...
Forever!

A friend of my Mom’s was a High School Home Ec Teacher and I distinctly remember her telling my Mom, “You are wearing your clothes out washing them!” What?! I was just a ten-year old kid. Living on the farm, we got dirty—so we washed our clothes a lot and we were clean. We didn’t have the advantage that the Israelites did with Moses during the Exodus. Their clothes and shoes didn’t wear out. This is back to school time of the year and over the summer the kids have grown and shoes are worn out—time for new clothes and shoes. Reminds me of washing clothes and shoes on the farm.

When the Jews returned to Jerusalem after their Babylon captivity, and had a revival of sorts after they rebuilt the city wall, they recalled that God took care of them as they wandered in the desert. They knew their ancestors had clothes and shoes that didn’t wear out when they traveled with Moses.

For forty years you sustained them in the wilderness, and they lacked nothing. Their clothes did not wear out, and their feet did not swell! Nehemiah 9:21

Did the children’s clothes seem to grow with them? That is not mentioned, but without their clothes miraculously always fitting, imagine how frustrated the Moms could have been trying to find or make clothes for their growing children. Certainly they didn’t wear out from washing them.

Moses summoned all the Israelites and said to them, "You have seen with your own eyes everything the LORD did in the land of Egypt to Pharaoh and to all his servants and to his whole country -- all the great tests of strength, the miraculous signs, and the amazing wonders. But to this day the LORD has not given you minds that understand, nor eyes that see, nor ears that hear! For forty years I led you through the wilderness, yet your clothes and sandals did not wear out. You ate no bread and drank no wine or other alcoholic drink, but he gave you food so you would know that he is the LORD your God. Deuteronomy 29:2-6

Prayer – Lord God, thank you that You always provide for us—food, clothing, and shelter. Jesus, You told your disciples, and us, that everything we needed would be provided…if we would seek You first. "So don't worry about these things, saying, 'What will we eat? What will we drink? What will we wear?' These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers, but your heavenly Father already knows all your needs. Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need. "So don't worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today's trouble is enough for today. Matthew 6:31-34.

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

Verse of Salvation ~ Now after John [the Baptist] was arrested and taken into custody, Jesus went to Galilee, preaching the good news of [the kingdom of] God, and saying, "The [appointed period of] time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent [change your inner self--your old way of thinking, regret past sins, live your life in a way that proves repentance; seek God's purpose for your life] and believe [with a deep, abiding trust] in the good news [regarding salvation]." Mark 1:14-15 AMP

Are you putting God first today?

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

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

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

Monday, August 11, 2025

Who Shows Undeserved Kindness?

Paul declared that God Himself shows undeserved kindness to mankind. This is a classic verse.

Jesus obediently went to the cross...
for the sins of mankind.
Do you believe it was for your sin, too?

Holy Family Shine, Gretna, Nebraska.

Everyone has sinned and we just cannot ever reach God’s standard on our own. But God…in His infinite wisdom and compassion put His plan in motions to get us out of debt—the debt of sin. Because Jesus was obedient, went to the cross as a living sacrifice, and died there, our sins are forgiven. The best part is that Jesus didn’t stay dead. He rose from the grave victorious and we’ve been promised that one day we will raise from the dead, too, if we believe in God’s plan and Jesus is our Savior. We have a righteous hope for a brighter future…if we put our trust in Jesus. Have you or can you do that?

For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God's glorious standard. Yet God, with undeserved kindness, declares that we are righteous. He did this through Christ Jesus when he freed us from the penalty for our sins. Romans 3:23-24

Prayer – Lord Jesus, once again, as always, I am in awe of the sacrifice You willing and obediently made on my behalf. You gave up Your human life so that I could be forgiven of my sins and one day resurrected to live with You forever. You gave me freedom from my sin…so I am a slave to You forever—no longer a slave to sin. Thank You!

Meditate. Consider God’s undeserved kindness.

Verse 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

Are you putting God first today?

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

Sunday, August 10, 2025

The Law Shows Everyone Guilty – No Excuses

The Tomb is Empty!
Resurrection.
The Plan is in action.
Do you have faith to believe?
Do you have the hope of forgiveness?
Be saved from sin.
No excuses.

This is a very succinct passage of scripture. I love it. It tells us everyone is guilty before God—no one is less or more of a sinner than anyone else. That’s good. Everyone is sinful and we cannot get away from the sin on our own. God has a plan—a perfect way for us to be forgiven without just keeping the Commandments. We are forgiven, made right with God, by placing our faith in Jesus. By believing in Him, having a hope and faith in Him, we are pure like Adam and Eve once were created, and we can live eternally with God. That was the hope that God had for those humans He created. It is renewed by Jesus to anyone who trusts Him. Faith. Hope. No excuses.

Obviously, the law applies to those to whom it was given, for its purpose is to keep people from having excuses, and to show that the entire world is guilty before God. For no one can ever be made right with God by doing what the law commands. The law simply shows us how sinful we are. But now God has shown us a way to be made right with him without keeping the requirements of the law, as was promised in the writings of Moses and the prophets long ago. We are made right with God by placing our faith in Jesus Christ. And this is true for everyone who believes, no matter who we are. Romans 3:19-22

Prayer – Lord God, thank you for making a plan—a way back to You. I am grateful to Jesus for being willing and obedient to go to the cross, sacrificing my sin for His life. But He is no longer dead. Great part of the plan. Resurrection! There is joy and hope. This gives me peace. Thank You!

Meditate. Consider the joy of sin erased.

Verse of Salvation ~ Since you have heard about Jesus and have learned the truth that comes from him, throw off your old sinful nature and your former way of life, which is corrupted by lust and deception. Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes. Put on your new nature, created to be like God--truly righteous and holy. Ephesians 4:21-24

Are you putting God first today?

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, August 9, 2025

No Fear of God?

A sign in English seen at David's City.
Jerusalem, Israel

No fear of God. Paul was writing to the Jewish people at the church in Rome, but what were they thinking? Fear of God doesn’t always mean to be afraid, since the word ‘fear” is translated from the Greek to also means to respect or have reverence for someone or something. What level of respect do you have…for God? Each person has a choice to make.

Paul gives scriptural examples to emphasize that no one is righteous—not one. He identifies their weaknesses. Some people may think they are holy and pure. They look great on the outside, but these unrighteous individuals are like that verse that explains what is going on with those same folks who have turned away and become foul mouth. They are lacking in peace. No peace—no respect.

Prayer is powerful. Pray for those who don’t fear God…even if includes yourself. Paul points out that everyone falls short of the glory of God. we are useless—but remember that God is greater than he that is in the world trying to cause trouble. He has a plan for an eternal future. Talk to Him if you want to spend forever with Him.

Well then, should we conclude that we Jews are better than others? No, not at all, for we have already shown that all people, whether Jews or Gentiles, are under the power of sin. As the Scriptures say,

"No one is righteous—not one (Psalm 5:9; Psalm 140:3).

No one is truly wise; no one is seeking God.

All have turned away; all have become useless.

(Psalm 53:1-4)"

"Their talk is foul, like the stench from an open grave. Their tongues are filled with lies." "Snake venom drips from their lips. (Psalm 10:7)"

"Their mouths are full of cursing and bitterness."

"They rush to commit murder.

Destruction and misery always follow them.

They don't know where to find peace. (Isaiah 59:7-8) "

"They have no fear of God at all. (Psalm 36:1)" Romans 3:9-18

Prayer – Lord God, I have the deepest respect for You. I do have “fear” of You. Does my devotion to You show? I am seeking You with all my heart, soul, mind and strength. I am not a Jew—but I am grateful that You, King Jesus, were obedient to Our Heavenly Father…and gave your very life creating a way out of sin for mankind. Thank you. Count me in on Your eternal plan. I want to serve You…forever.

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

Verse of Salvation ~ How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of the messenger who brings good news, the good news of peace and salvation, the news that the God of Israel reigns! Isaiah 52:7

Are you putting God first today?

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

No fear of God. Paul was writing to the Jewish people at the church in Rome, but what were they thinking? Fear of God doesn’t mean to be afraid, although ‘fear” the word is translated from the Greek as fear means to respect or have reverence for someone or something. What level of respect do you have…for God? Each person has a choice to make.

"No one is righteous—not one (Psalm 5:9; Psalm 140:3).

No one is truly wise; no one is seeking God.

All have turned away; all have become useless.

(Psalm 53:1-4)"

"Their talk is foul, like the stench from an open grave. Their tongues are filled with lies." "Snake venom drips from their lips. (Psalm 10:7)"

"Their mouths are full of cursing and bitterness."

"They rush to commit murder.

Destruction and misery always follow them.

They don't know where to find peace. (Isaiah 59:7-8) "

"They have no fear of God at all. (Psalm 36:1)" Romans 3:9-18

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

Verse of Salvation ~ How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of the messenger who brings good news, the good news of peace and salvation, the news that the God of Israel reigns! Isaiah 52:7

Are you putting God first today?

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, August 8, 2025

Who are You Praying To…Who are You Praying For?

Consider to whom pray…is it God Almighty? We are warned and instructed that our God is a jealous God and He wants to be worshipped alone—no idols. Read the Ten Commandments in Exodus 20.

Who are you praying for? Paul tells us in this letter to Timothy, the young man he was mentoring, that we are to pray for all people. Can you do that? Jesus said to pray for your enemies. Can you do that? As always, it is a choice. Choose wisely.

Pray for all people--in the world.
God so loved the world...
that He gave His only Son...
that whoever believes in Him...
will have eternal life.
John 3:16
Believe & Pray

I urge you, first of all, to pray for all people. Ask God to help them; intercede on their behalf, and give thanks for them. Pray this way for kings and all who are in authority so that we can live peaceful and quiet lives marked by godliness and dignity. This is good and pleases God our Savior, who wants everyone to be saved and to understand the truth. 1 Timothy 2:1-4

Prayer – Lord God, You are an awesome God—and I fall on my knees and face before You. Please forgive me for the times that I’ve put other things before my relationship with You. Thank You, Jesus, over and over for the sacrifice that You humbly and obediently made for me…and for all mankind. I just lift all of us up to You. Help them…as well as me, my family, and friends, to see the Truth that You are and to live quiet lives that bring You honor and praise.

Meditate and pray.

Verse of Salvation ~ For there is only one God and one Mediator who can reconcile God and humanity--the man Christ Jesus. He gave his life to purchase freedom for everyone. This is the message God gave to the world at just the right time. 1 Timothy 2:5-6

Friday’s Feast at the King’s TableP

Jesus, who came to provide spiritual and physical healing, made all food clean. We can eat anything, although I’m not crazy about the idea of eating crickets or worms. Chocolate with that, anyone?

Before you eat…say a prayer of Thanksgiving to the Lord. That prayer offered from your heart, thanking God, will consecrate the food and make it beneficial to your body. In The Jesus Diet: Health and Wellness Through The Power of God’s Word by Terry Toler, he encourages those following this idea to eat when you are hungry and quit when you are full. For me, the key is to know when I’m full! I can just keep eating and eating—but if…and that is a big IF…I eat slowly, sure enough I do get full. Not uncomfortably full, just satisfied.

Listen to the Holy Spirit—Jesus speaking to you—giving you instructions on how to have an abundant life. If you let God change you on the inside, then your outward appearance will change, too. God loves you just as you are—but He wants the best for you and that includes good health. Feast at His Table today—spiritually and physically.

Are you putting God first today?

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, August 7, 2025

Consider God’s Workmanship

We aren’t done yet with hot summer days and some of the people I know will still be taking their Summer Vacation—even with gas and diesel at all-time high levels. This scripture…remembering it vaguely from others praying it or paraphrasing it to suit the occasion…is one of my favorites and I wanted to pray this for friends and family, but recently I just couldn’t find it. Then when I stopped looking for it…here it was. Do you think that Jesus prayed a similar prayer for His disciples as they traveled between Jerusalem and the Sea of Galilee? After His resurrection, He surprised them one morning when they had gone fishing.

Jesus fixed those fishermen breakfast—grilled fish and toast. Sounds good! A lakeside feast with the Savior—what could be better? Perhaps only a heavenly feast—that banquet that we’ll all attend one day when Jesus calls us home. Right then that breakfast probably looked really good—and smell wonderful. They were hungry after fishing all night. So, what did you have for breakfast this morning? I love breakfast anytime of the day, although I may be awake for a few of hours before I eat. Today I started with a fresh squeezed lemon juice and cayenne pepper drink. Then I had a slice of zucchini – carrot bread, almonds, some fresh sliced honeydew melon and Greek yogurt. My favorite place to eat is outside on the deck where it is frequently wonderful. No breeze off the Sea of Galilee like those disciples likely had with Jesus—but it is a very pleasant way to start my day.

Spiritually, what did you have for “breakfast?” My son, Mike, told me once that he doesn’t feed his body without feeding his spirit first. Wow—what did I ever do to get such a wise son? So—I “fed” on Psalm 139 today and am in awe of God that He cares so much for each of us. There is no where we can go that He isn’t already there…and He cares about us to have created us with such intricate bodies. He is awesome and worthy of our praise. Consider His works and His ways today.

How when, where, and with whom do you choose to start your day?

O LORD, you have examined my heart and know everything about me. You know when I sit down or stand up. You know my thoughts even when I'm far away. You see me when I travel and when I rest at home. You know everything I do. You know what I am going to say even before I say it, LORD. You go before me and follow me. You place your hand of blessing on my head. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too great for me to understand! I can never escape from your Spirit! I can never get away from your presence! If I go up to heaven, you are there; if I go down to the grave, you are there. If I ride the wings of the morning, if I dwell by the farthest oceans, even there your hand will guide me, and your strength will support me. Psalm 139:1-10

Prayer – Jesus, I will give thanks to You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; wonderful are Your works, and my soul knows it very well. ... How precious also are Your thoughts to me, O God! How vast is the sum of them! Psalms 139:14, 17

Meditate. Consider traveling mercies.

Verse of Salvation ~ The faithful love of the LORD never ends! His mercies never cease. Great is his faithfulness; his mercies begin afresh each morning. I say to myself, "The LORD is my inheritance; therefore, I will hope in him!" The LORD is good to those who depend on him, to those who search for him. So it is good to wait quietly for salvation from the LORD. Lamentations 3:22-26

Are you putting God first today?

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