May 16 – Don’t Waste Time

Do not waste time arguing over godless ideas and old wives' tales. Instead, train (discipline) yourself to be godly. Physical training is good, but training for godliness is much better, promising benefits in this life and in the life to come. 1 Timothy 4:7-8 NLT  

What wise advice—don’t waste time arguing over godless ideas. People can be so distracted arguing over silly things. We need to focus on what is worth our time and energy—disciplining ourselves to seek what is right. He who neglects discipline despises himself, but he who listens to reproof acquires understanding. Proverbs 15:32. If we are to lead others, we need to first discipline ourselves. One of my favorite verses is found in Philippians 4:8…Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things. I think this is a good verse to discipline myself to think about what is right and good and true. That is a good place to start everyday—every hour—moment by moment.

Training Tip – Read Philippians 4:8 to your family. Discuss, and make a list if that is good for training your children, the things that are true, honorable, right, pure, lovely, contribute to a good reputation, excellent or worth praise. Help them to see that focusing on those things, rather than negative issues, are a good way to live. God wants us to live holy lives—worthy of Him and His love.

Lord God, You alone are worthy of our praise and adoration. Help us to seek that what is good, pure and honorable in our lives.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

© 2013 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

May 15 – Discipline from Heaven

Out of the heavens He let you hear His voice to discipline you; and on earth He let you see His great fire, and you heard His words from the midst of the fire. Deuteronomy 4:36 

God led and thus disciplined the Hebrew people as they followed God’s pillar of cloud by day and pillar of fire at night from Egypt to the Holy Land. See the story in Exodus 13. God loves us so much He wants to discipline us to do what is right—to be like Jesus. He lets us “hear” His voice. So what does “discipline” mean? Discipline is a systematic instruction intended to train a person. Jesus “trained” His disciples by His example, as well as by parables and words of wisdom. Now He continues to train those who listen to Him—who follow His way. That is also how we should discipline our children—by example as well as with words of wisdom and knowledge. Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge, but he who hates reproof is stupid. Proverbs 12:1.

Training Tip – Are you showing good examples of Godly living to your children? Do you discipline yourself to study God’s word daily and to train up your children in the way they should go? Tell your family the story of God leading His people from Egypt to Israel using the pillar of clouds and fire. God was always with His people--and He is always with us today. 

Lord God, thank you for being present in the lives of the Hebrew people as You led them to the Promised Land. We’re glad that you are with us—always—and we appreciate that You show us how to live as we study Your word.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

© 2013 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

 

May 14 – A Heart with Patience

So, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience…. Colossians 3:12

Chosen by God. That is such an awesome thought for me. Out of all the people in the world in all of time—God reached down from Heaven, touched me—and said I chose you. Well—in the Bible He said that all who believe in His Son will become adopted into His family. That includes me. But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, even to those who believe in His name…John 1:12. And as written in 1 Peter 2:9-10…you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for God's own possession, so that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; for you once were not a people, but now you are the people of God; you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy. Chosen. Royal priesthood. God in His mercy has a lot of patience with those who He selects to be part of His family. We are not instantly perfect like Jesus, but God waits for us to develop characteristics like His Son. Likewise we should put on a heart of patience and treat our family as royalty—patiently guarding and keeping them from darkness—from evil as they develop the character traits of Jesus.  

Training Tip – Are you memorizing John 1:12 with your family? (See the May 11 post.) Memorizing scripture takes patience and persistence. Don’t be impatient with your children when it comes to memorization. Keep on reviewing the scripture that you are trying to memorize. As you review the scripture it will help you and your family to remember the verses. Review, review, review.

Lord God, we give you thanks because You have patiently chosen us from the beginning for salvation through sanctification by the Spirit and faith in the truth…. 2 Thessalonians 2:13

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

© 2013 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

May 13 – Patience and Tolerance

…with all humility and gentleness, with patience, showing tolerance for one another in love…. Ephesians 4:2 

Being patient with children can be challenging, especially while also being humble and gentle— considering their needs and putting them first. When our children are babies it comes naturally to put their needs first and be gentle. As they get older…well, children become more challenging. Their own selfish desires demand your attention. The battle between your own selfish desires and theirs may wage wars—but you are the parent. Take charge with patience and keep your goals in mind. Of course, attaining your goals for your family may mean that you don’t get to do some of the things you want to do…that is the trade off in parenting. You end up with well adjusted, educated children who love the Lord, but you didn’t take that trip to Antarctica or write the book you wanted. Adjust your goals. There is still time in your life to attain some of the things you desire to do.

Where does tolerance fit with patience? Consider some of the actions of two or three year olds. You know that you have to moderate and help them adjust their behavior—but face it. You just have to tolerate some of their actions. You must set boundaries. No tantrums. Them or you! They have to be taught to behave—to mind their manners, but they will have their own personalities, too. Tolerate their idiosyncrasies. As a family, you’ll have to tolerate everyone’s individuality. Just have patience with them as you encourage them to grow. 

 

 “Wide differences of opinion in matters of religious, political, and social belief must exist if conscience and intellect alike are not to be stunted, if there is to be room for healthy growth.” Theodore Roosevelt. 

Training Tip – Set up a time when you can challenge your children’s patience—just like when you go to out for dinner and have to wait and wait and wait. Have them wait in chairs, like they would be waiting to be seated in a restaurant. Then after seating them at the dining table—have them wait for their drinks. The waiting will continue as their food is prepared. This will challenge their patience—but hopefully will teach them wait patiently. Laugh about this—but help them see that they need to be patient with others and situations around them. 

Lord God, thank you for having patience with us and tolerating our individuality. Guide and direct us today that we would be pleasing in your sight and that all we say and do would bring you glory.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

© 2013 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

May 12 – Patiently Preach or Teach?

…preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort, with great patience and instruction. 2 Timothy 4:2  

Jesus taught His disciples and then, as recorded in Luke 9, He sent them out to drive out demons and cure diseases. After that He patiently continued to teach them about the kingdom of God, fed 5,000 men and provided examples of His healing touch. In Luke 10:1-24, Jesus sends out seventy-two of His followers. Just like those people and as Paul taught Timothy, we need to be ready to share the gospel, the good news of what God is doing in our lives, patiently with others. Why with patience? Well—for one thing…A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger. Proverbs 15:1. If you really want to tell others about Jesus, it is more likely that someone will be willing to listen if you speak to them gently and patiently answer their questions. 

The instruction that Paul was giving Timothy in the passage above was good—be ready. Are you ready to “preach” the word? Not everyone is gifted to be a preacher, but we all have a story to tell. So be ready to share your own story with others. Paul goes on to tell Timothy that people will want to hear what “tickles their ears” –fantasies. But God is telling Timothy and us that we need keep our heads and teach the truth. If you don’t know God’s word well—spend more time reading it. Is it more important to you to know God’s word than to follow the latest story on some television show? Where are your priorities? God has patience with you as you align yourself to His will—but although it may seem some days are slow, years go by quickly. Be ready.  

Training Tip – Have patience with your children—but teach them to be ready. Set a goal for memorizing scripture with them. Have patience with yourself—they may learn the verses even faster than you do—but you will have to work with them consistently to teach them God’s word. Where do you start, you may wonder? Here’s a list of verses that you will want them to know to be ready to share God’s word and their own story with others:

John 3:16 - For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life.   

Romans 3:23 -… for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God….

Romans 5:8 - But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. 

John 1:12 - But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, even to those who believe in His name….

It is such a privilege to be a child of the King—children should like that concept. We are adopted into God’s family. To be part of a royal family—princesses and princes—is a real life changing story to share with others. They can be part of God’s family, too. 

Lord God, once again we ask for Your patience in our lives and for us to see opportunities to share You with others that they would come to know You, Jesus, as their savior. Guide and protect us today as we seek and serve You.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

© 2013 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

May 11 – Patience of Christ

Yet for this reason I found mercy, so that in me as the foremost, Jesus Christ might demonstrate His perfect patience as an example for those who would believe in Him for eternal life. 1Timothy 1:16  

For this reason…what reason? The verses before this give us a clue, in 1 Timothy 1:12-15.

I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has strengthened me, because He considered me faithful, putting me into service, even though I was formerly a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent aggressor. Yet I was shown mercy because I acted ignorantly in unbelief; and the grace of our Lord was more than abundant, with the faith and love which are found in Christ Jesus. It is a trustworthy statement, deserving full acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, among whom I am foremost of all.

God is merciful. He has given me strength…and had patience with me as it has taken me years to come around to getting my attitude in order—in fact He is still working with me—I’m not perfect yet! His patience is perfect and He is merciful. You can count on Him to help you in whatever area of your life you wish to grow and change. As long as you are seeking God’s will—you can trust Him that you will receive whatever it is for which you ask. He has promised that.  

Training Tip – Patience is a virtue that is best modeled. Be patient with your children and they will learn patience. If you want to teach them this characteristic, then you can set up some challenges for them that they must learn to wait for the results—and then reward them. For pre-schoolers, the waiting time needs to be short. For older children learning to wait for the outcome and reward will be part of the process. Look closely at their lives and see where they need to develop more patience. Maybe it is with their siblings or just with the time and energy they put into doing their homework. Set some goals with your children, individually, and establish some reward—it could be time with you, money, a special toy or visit to a special place, like an aquarium, zoo, or amusement park. Of course the reward should be in line with the effort that the child has expended on the project or goal. Be realistic in your own goal setting.  Who would take their child to Disneyland for finishing their homework on time one night?  

Lord God, open my eyes to Your will for my life so that I may have patience with people and situations around me…so that I will not be sluggish, but imitators of those who through faith and patience inherit the promises. (Hebrews 6:12) And help me to be a good example of patience for my children and grandchildren.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

© 2013 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

May 10 – Patience

Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, so that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. ... Blessed is a man who perseveres under trial; for once he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him. James 1:2-4, 12 

Patience is that virtue that shows tolerance and acceptance of others and of difficult situations without making demands and conditions. Years ago when my children were small—like beginning elementary school—I had a very trying time and prayed with a friend for patience. She told me that to pray for patience is to ask for trials. Ugh! I didn’t know that—but it made sense. I stopped praying for patience and asked God to give me grace to understand my children and the anger I was feeling. Sure enough, God helped me with my anger…and my children were not harmed by this out of control mom. Prayer is a powerful tool—and God’s answer was timely. 

Training Tip – One of the hardest things to do is to thank God for the trials in our lives. Can you do that? Honestly take stock in your own attitude and actions during times of stress. Are you a good example to your children of patience during the rough times? Ask God to help you to be a good example for your kids—then trust Him to help you—even if it is patience with them. 

Lord God, I again ask you today for a healing touch for my granddaughter, Amelia—as she undergoes eye surgery. You have taught us that we have not because we ask not…so I’m asking. Jesus, You also said that we should Ask…and we will receive, knock and the door will be opened for us. Give her doctor wisdom and guide his hands as he does the surgery. Give her parents your peace and strength—and I thank you for Your spiritual guidance in their lives—In Jesus’ precious name.

Friday’s Feast at the Lord’s Table

Pizza  - One of our family’s favorite Friday night meals has been pizza for years!  My three year old granddaughter offered this “recipe” for pizza – go to a restaurant and they’ll make whatever you want. Cheese is her favorite. We recently had a great thin crust combination pizza with ham, pulled pork, honey mustard, and pickles. Yes, sliced dill pickles. Yummy! 

Another favorite we love is a thin crust chicken pesto pizza made by Esterno’s Wood Fired Pizza in Richland, WA. It has a great pesto sauce, chicken, fresh mozzarella, Applewood bacon, marinated artichoke hearts, red onion, and roasted red peppers. Yum!

Friday night pizza with family and friends is a special time. So make up some pizza crust and go creative with your toppings. Get everyone involved. Kids love to top their own small personal pizzas. 

Homemade Pizza

Crust
1 Tbsp. active dry yeast
1 cup warm water (105-115 degrees F/40-46 degrees C)
1 tsp. sugar
1 tsp. salt
2 Tbsp. vegetable oil
2 1/2 cups flour 

Dissolve the yeast in the water. Add the rest of the ingredients and mix. For creative taste add chopped fresh or dried herbs or roasted garlic. Place dough a floured surface and knead for about five minutes.

Roll out and press down onto a greased pizza pan or prepare on a wooden paddle to transfer to a pizza stone. Add toppings. Heat pizza stone, sprinkle with cornmeal and transfer pizza to hot stone.

 

Suggested toppings:

Sauce: olive oil, pesto, ranch sauce, red tomato sauce, salsa, barbecue sauce

Meat: diced cooked chicken, Italian sausage, ground beef, pepperoni, turkey, Canadian bacon, bacon, pulled pork

Vegetables/fruit/herbs: artichoke hearts, spinach, basil, mushrooms, onions, roasted garlic, pineapple, pickles, roasted peppers, black olives, fresh tomatoes  

Cheeses: fresh mozzarella, smoked Gouda or smoked mozzarella, fresh grated parmesan, cheddar, ricotta.

Bake at 450 degrees F. for around 12-15 minutes until the crust looks crispy and lightly browned.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

© 2013 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

May 9 – Alpha and Omega – Peace

Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace among men with whom He is pleased. Luke 2:14 

While they were telling these things, He Himself stood in their midst and said to them, "Peace be to you." Luke 24:36 

At the beginning of Jesus’ live on earth, angels sang about “peace” and after His resurrection, Jesus appeared to His disciples, declaring “peace” to them. Alpha and Omega. The beginning and the end. Peace—Peace. Though peace was declared at those times, Jesus’ life was not characterized by peace. The Jewish leaders were continually trying to trick Him or catch Him in an act of unlawfulness. They accused Him of healing on the Sabbath—He did. In one account of Jesus healing a man on the Sabbath, from Luke 14 … And there in front of Him was a man suffering from dropsy. Jesus answered and spoke to the lawyers and Pharisees, saying, "Is it lawful to heal on the Sabbath, or not?" But they kept silent. He took hold of him and healed him, and sent him away. He said to them, "Which one of you will have a son or an ox fall into a well, and will not immediately pull him out on a Sabbath day?" Luke 14:2-5. It was not an atmosphere of peacefulness—but one of hostility towards Jesus. His response was peaceful—with calmness. He challenged the Pharisees with the issue of the well—who wouldn’t save his son or ox? The Pharisees claimed to be righteous, but by their silence before Jesus, they showed that they were human, too. They taught others to be legalistic. Do as I say…not as I do. 

Jesus was a perfect example—we can follow not only His words, but His actions. Be kind to others—be at peace with them. Yet, consider one thing Jesus said about peace. Do you suppose that I came to grant peace on earth? I tell you, no, but rather division…Luke 12:51. He wanted people to choose Him—to chose God’s way over living to please other people like the Pharisees or even family members in authority over us. Is this a challenge to you?  

Training Tip – Read the scriptures above and show your children pictures of the angels declaring “peace on earth” to the shepherds when Jesus was born, and if possible a picture of Jesus with the disciples—showing them His scars from the crucifixion and declaring “peace be to you”. Talk about what it means to be a peacemaker. Do you see that quality in your children? Encourage them to help others rather than to stir up trouble.  

Lord, help us to “depart from evil and do good; to seek peace and pursue it” (Psalm 34:14) just as you would have us do. Help us to follow you—seeking peace with others. 

Additionally, Lord God, I ask you today for a healing touch for my five-year old granddaughter, Amelia—as she undergoes eye surgery, tomorrow. Please help her not to be afraid—but to put her trust in You. We know that You will be right there with her for You have promised to never leave us or forsake us. Give her doctor wisdom and guide his hands as he does the surgery. Give her parents your peace and strength—and I thank you for Your spiritual guidance in their lives—In Jesus’ precious name.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

© 2013 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

May 8 – Peace for Jerusalem—for Israel

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: May they prosper who love you. May peace be within your walls, and prosperity within your palaces. Psalm 122:6-7

When God told Abram (before he became Abraham) to leave his homeland and go to the Promised Land, He told him …I will bless those who bless you, and the one who curses you I will curse. And in you all the families of the earth will be blessed. Genesis 12:3. This verse alone should encourage us to pray for Israel—for peace, prosperity and protection to be over their nation. God will bless those who care about His people and His land—on earth and heaven. I try regularly to pray for Israel and for the Jews around the world—that God would provide protection for them…and that individually they would seek to know Jesus as their savior. I was once told that the Jews were not seeking the Messiah (Mashiach) as a personal savior, but that He would come to their nation. Jesus was Jewish. To Christians and Messianic Jews, He is recognized as the awaited Messiah—bringing spiritual healing, blessings and hope. Most Jews are still awaiting Mashiach. 

Training Tip – With your family make a list of Jewish people that you may know and ways that you can pray for them specifically—individually and collectively. If you don’t personally know any Jewish people, then make a list of public or political people who are Jewish and begin to pray for them regularly. Don’t just make the lists, PRAY. Brethren, my heart's desire and my prayer to God for them is for their salvation. Romans 10:1 

Lord God, it is my heart’s desire, just as it is yours that no one should perish—but that all should have eternal life—so I lift up my Jewish “brothers and sisters” to you that you would open their eyes and hearts to understand Jesus as Mashiach. Please give Israel as a nation your peace and strength—within their borders and as individuals grant them peace within their relationships—with each other and with You.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

© 2013 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

May 7 – Be at Peace with One Another

Salt is good; but if the salt becomes unsalty, with what will you make it salty again? Have salt in yourselves, and be at peace with one another. Mark 9:50

What is your favorite salty food? Potato or corn chips, French fries, popcorn, crackers, dill pickles, ham, bacon or fish. Imagine what it would taste like without salt. Have you ever had salt become unsalty? It does happen—and when it does, it is time to throw it away. You are the salt of the earth; but if the salt has become tasteless, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot by men. Matthew 5:13  

So have salt in yourselves—be tasteful in whatever you say. Choose your words carefully so they aren’t ugly and tasteless, like uncured rotten meat, which would be offensive to others. Our choice of words can either create or disrupt peace with those around us. Funny thing, if we are not at peace with ourselves, we won’t be at peace with others. The choice is ours. If you are struggling with peace in your life, pray about it. Remember…

…You do not have because you do not ask. You ask and do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, so that you may spend it on your pleasures. James 4:2-3  

Delight yourself in the LORD, and He will give you the desires of your heart. Psalm 37:4.  

Training Tip – Give your family some food that is normally salty, but serve it without salt. Then ask them what they think…was that yummy? Then serve them a portion of the same food—in the normal salty portion. You may want to give them some over salted, just to show that there is a balance. Discuss the scripture for the day and ask them about what it means to have salt in themselves. Children may need some encouragement with vocabulary choices that are “salty” but in good taste. Make a list of good words to say to each other—encouraging words that create peace within the family and with friends.

Lord - we acknowledge that all power and peace comes from You. You Lord give strength to Your people and bless them with peace. Psalm 29:11

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

© 2013 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

May 6 – Peace Guards Your Heart and Mind

Let your gentle spirit be known to all men. The Lord is near. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:5-7

I was very surprised recently when someone told me that I had a gentle spirit. Me? Well—God has helped me not to be a loud, obnoxious person that was my nature when I was a kid. He has been so gracious to me. I like being a quiet person—enjoying studying God’s Word, quiet music, reading, painting, gardening, an occasional sewing project, walking and time with family and friends. I personally want my life to be like that of Proverbs 3:17…my ways are pleasant ways and all my paths are peace. Sometimes we can’t escape the noise of the world—but we can still have a peaceful quiet heart with a calmness that is encouraging to others and even gives us a deeper serenity for ourselves. 

Peace – it does not mean to be in a place where there is no noise, trouble or hard work. It means to be in the midst of those things and still be calm in your heart. (Unknown) To have that peace that goes beyond comprehension is a totally God thing—a gift from God that will wrap your heart, that is your very soul, and your mind in the love of Jesus Christ. That love is above all in greatness—flowing from the Holy Spirit Himself. I know—He has filled me with that love and given me a peace that is beyond understanding. Yet it is not a peace that is constantly there—it is sometimes just beyond my reach. And I know that it is sin—a barrier between me and God that sometimes keeps me from His peace. Do you experience that same void at some times in your life? I can only suggest prayer as a way back to God—that is the road I have traveled.
 

Training Tip – Read this scripture passage to your family. Let them design and paint a crest depicting the peace of God, along with the heart and mind of Christ. Different colors have different meanings. For our Western culture they are:

Red: Excitement, energy, passion, love, desire, speed, strength, power, heat, aggression, danger, fire, blood, war, violence, all things intense and passionate.

Pink symbolizes love and romance, caring, tenderness, acceptance and calm.

Beige and ivory symbolize unification. Ivory symbolizes quiet and pleasantness. Beige symbolizes calm and simplicity.

Yellow signifies joy, happiness, betrayal, optimism, idealism, imagination, hope, sunshine, summer, gold, philosophy, dishonesty, cowardice, jealousy, covetousness, deceit, illness, hazard and friendship.

Blue: Peace, tranquility, cold, calm, stability, harmony, unity, trust, truth, confidence, conservatism, security, cleanliness, order, loyalty, sky, water, technology, depression, appetite suppressant.

Turquoise symbolizes calm. Teal symbolizes sophistication. Aquamarine symbolizes water. Lighter turquoise has a feminine appeal.

Purple: Royalty, nobility, spirituality, ceremony, mysterious, transformation, wisdom, enlightenment, cruelty, arrogance, mourning.

Lavender symbolizes femininity, grace and elegance.

Orange: Energy, balance, enthusiasm, warmth, vibrant, expansive, flamboyant, demanding of attention.

Green: Nature, environment, healthy, good luck, renewal, youth, spring, generosity, fertility, jealousy, inexperience, envy, misfortune, vigor.

Brown: Earth, stability, hearth, home, outdoors, reliability, comfort, endurance, simplicity, and comfort.

Gray: Security, reliability, intelligence, staid, modesty, dignity, maturity, solid, conservative, practical, old age, sadness, boring. Silver symbolizes calm.

White: Reverence, purity, birth, simplicity, cleanliness, peace, humility, precision, innocence, youth, winter, snow, good, sterility, marriage, cold, clinical.

Black: Power, sophistication, formality, elegance, wealth, mystery, fear, evil, unhappiness, depth, style, evil, sadness, remorse, anger, anonymity, underground, good technical color, mourning, death.  

Lord God, I will hear what You will say, for You speak peace to Your people, to Your godly ones. Psalm 85:8 I will listen and obey—thank you for Your sweet peace and the gentle spirit that You give to us. 

Additionally, Lord, in Your mercy, please touch and heal children_____who are sick with viruses that are common to little children, but that are worrisome to parents and grandchildren. Thank you for hearing our prayers.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

© 2013 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

May 5 - Peace

A time to love and a time to hate; a time for war and a time for peace. Ecclesiastes 3:8  

Peace is found 360 times in the New American Standard Bible version. Peace-peace—God’s peace. Solomon wrote about time for everything—including peace, noting that the opposite of peace is war. Personal peace is contrasted by personal turmoil and anxiety. In His last supper with His disciples Jesus told them that He wanted to give them peace as recorded in John 14:27. Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful. Jesus Himself had peace—true contentment even in the midst of turmoil. When the Roman guards came for Him in the Garden of Gethsemane He wasn’t fearful or anxious. He was at peace with what was about to happen to Him. Read about this in Matthew 26:36-56 or John 18:3-12. He didn’t put up a struggle when He was arrested—He didn’t show any signs of anxiety—He went peacefully. As He wanted for His disciples, Jesus wants us not to be fearful. Does that mean that we need to put on a happy face? Mother Teresa is quoted as saying, “Peace begins with a smile….” I’d like to think that peace begins with a prayer to our Heavenly Father, asking for peace, wisdom and a pleasant look on our faces, if not actually a smile. 

Training Tip – Talk with your family about “peace” and its meaning for nations and individuals. Of course world-wide peace means no wars. Personal peace is a surrendering and yielding to the Lord’s control, for He is our ultimate peace. It is a tranquility that is based on our relationship with God so that He influences our thoughts, words, and actions—when we give Him control of our heart, will and mind. When we have peace with God, we can have peace with others, too.  

Take a bucket of water, a large spoon and a couple of wooden blocks, boats or other small floating items. Stir the water up and put the floaters in the turbulent water. Say that this is an example of not having peace.   Then let the water be calm—that is peace. To have peace in our lives we have to not “stir” things up with others—making them angry. We want to be peaceful together. Pray about peace with your family. 

“Peace cannot be kept by force; it can only be achieved by understanding.” ― Albert Einstein 

Lord as You taught the Colossians, Let Your peace rule in our hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body; and be thankful. Colossians 3:15. May we have peace in ourselves and within our family

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

© 2013 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

May 4 – Peace from Courage

These things I have spoken to you, so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world. John 16:33

Jesus wanted His disciples to have peace—not to turmoil as they faced the tough times ahead of them. He was trying to prepare them not only for His own death, but for theirs as well. In the passage of John 16:1-33 Jesus promises His disciples that the Holy Spirit will come to them, after He goes to heaven to be with the Father. Are these promises of peace and courage that Jesus gave His disciples applicable to us, too? Yes! If we love Jesus and follow His commandments (John 15:10-11) these promises are ours. I’ll take peace and courage any day over trials, uncertainty and fear. How about you?

Paul on his trip to Rome was told by an angel of God that they would lose their ship in a storm—but that no one would lose their life. The ship was in a fierce storm for two weeks and then went aground—but just as God had promised, no one died.  Read the whole story in Acts 27.   

Training Tip – Take small bottles of paint—or a box of watercolor paints—and demonstrate mixing colors. Red and yellow make orange. Red and blue make purple, yellow and blue make green. Then say that just as these colors are mixed, Jesus mixes His love, peace and courage into our lives. Without the other color, we are just plain old red, yellow or blue—but with Jesus’ help we can courageously be green, orange or purple. 

Lord Jesus, just as you taught Your disciples and as Paul had courage before his shipwreck, we will be strong and trust in You for courage and answers to our prayers. “Therefore, keep up your courage, men, for I believe God that it will turn out exactly as I have been told.” Acts 27:25  

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

© 2013 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

May 3 – Strength from Courage

Be strong and courageous, do not be afraid or tremble at them, for the LORD your God is the one who goes with you. He will not fail you or forsake you. Deuteronomy 31:6 

Moses was standing looking into the Promised Land—but God had told him that he would never go there. He told the Israelites that he was too old at 120 years of age and that God would go ahead of them across the Jordan River and into the Promised Land. Joshua would lead them just as God had said earlier. God was going to destroy the people who lived in the Promise Land—He promised. God would not leave or forsake the Israelites.  Is this a promise we can claim, too? Be strong and courageous—God did not abandon the Israelites and He will not abandon us.

Later in the Israelites history they abandon God—they serve idols. God repeatedly calls them back to Him. Asa, King of Judah, was the great-grandson of Solomon. Now the Spirit of God came on Azariah the son of Oded, and he went out to meet Asa and said to him, "Listen to me, Asa, and all Judah and Benjamin: the LORD is with you when you are with Him. And if you seek Him, He will let you find Him; but if you forsake Him, He will forsake you. ... Now when Asa heard these words and the prophecy which Azariah the son of Oded the prophet spoke, he took courage and removed the abominable idols from all the land of Judah and Benjamin and from the cities which he had captured in the hill country of Ephraim. He then restored the altar of the LORD which was in front of the porch of the LORD. 2 Chronicles 15:1-2, 8

Training Tip – Show your family a map of the world and the Middle East. Point out where the Israelites lived in Egypt and where they traveled until they arrived at the River Jordan to cross into the Promised Land. Read the scripture that Moses spoke in Deuteronomy 31:1-8. Ask them, who was courageous? Who made them courageous? 

Lord Jesus, just as You told the Israelites, we will be strong and not lose courage, for there is reward for our work. 2 Chronicles 15:7.  

Friday’s Feast at the Lord’s Table

Cinco de Mayo is coming soon. This is a celebration of an event when the courageous Mexican army won a battle in which they were greatly outnumbered.

For us now it is time to pull out those Mexican food recipes and get cooking—courageously remembering and celebrating. Here’s my family’s favorite homemade Mexican food.

Green Chili Chicken Enchiladas

Ingredients:

            One onion, chopped

            2 Chicken Breasts, cooked and shredded

            8 large or 12 small corn tortillas

            1 pound mixed shredded cheese

White sauce

            ¾ stick butter

            4-5 Tbsp flour

            3½ cups milk

            3 Tbsp chicken broth

            1 can green chilies - or three fresh roasted green chilies, chopped

Melt butter and stir in flour. Gradually add milk, chicken broth, and green chilies. Stir until thick.

Line bottom of baking pan with thin layer of gravy. Warm up tortillas. Roll chicken into tortillas with some chopped onion and cheese. Place tortillas into baking pan. Pour remaining gravy over top of tortillas. Cook for 15 minutes at 350º. (Cook for 30 minutes if prepared ahead of time and refrigerated.) 

Serve with chips and salsa, Horchata (cinnamon rice milk), and a tossed salad, if desired.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

© 2013 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

May 2 – Take Courage

And they brought to Him a paralytic lying on a bed. Seeing their faith, Jesus said to the paralytic, "Take courage, son; your sins are forgiven." Matthew 9:2

And Jesus stopped and said, "Call him here." So they called the blind man, saying to him, "Take courage, stand up! He is calling for you." Mark 10:49 

Here are two examples of people about to be healed being told to “take courage.” Interestingly enough, one was spoken by Jesus, and one by His disciples. What does that tell us? That we need to tell others to “take courage.” Encourage them—and be encouraged also. Jesus cares about us as He cared about the sick during His time. Another interesting note is that the word “encourage” has “courage” within it. En-as a prefix means to cause…so encourage means to cause to have courage! Just think about it. When you are encouraged, someone is helping you to have courage to do something…and likewise when you encourage others you are helping them have courage to do or face some situation. Remarkable thing about the English language and God’s word in this word “en-courage”; intertwined to facilitate courage in our lives.  

Training Tip – Take courage. Talk about what it means to “take courage” and give them some examples of ways times that they may need courage in their lives: first day of school, moving to a new community, walking in a scary neighborhood or dark place—even if not alone, being confronted by a bully, riding a scary ride at an amusement park, or walking by a barking dog—even if he is behind a fence or on a leash.  Encourage your children to be courageous. Take them on a walk where they have to walk across a log or set up an obstacle course in your yard that will require some courage for them to complete. Praise them for their courageous efforts.

Lord Jesus, just as you have taught us we will take courage because we know that our strength comes from You.… O God, You are awesome from Your sanctuary. The God of Israel Himself gives strength and power to the people. Blessed be God! - Psalm 68:35 NASB

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

© 2013 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

May 1 – Courage

...fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrews 12:2  

Courage. The most courageous person we will ever know is Jesus. He willingly went to the cross for us. Knowing the pain and humiliation that He would have to endure—He courageously went anyway. Sure Jesus IS God—but He was human, too. He felt all the emotions, trials, tribulations and temptations that we feel. He must have been not desired to go to the cross—He prayed in the Garden of Gethsemane, …My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me; yet not as I will, but as You will. Matthew 26:39. He courageously went anyway. He had the choice—He courageously went anyway. What an example for us. If we want to be like Jesus, then we have to face any situation or trial with courage…and do what is right.

Training Tip – Ask your family what “courage” means. Read the story of David and Goliath as an example. Let your children act out the story of David and Goliath. David was courageous. 

Lord Jesus, I praise you that…being found in appearance as a man, You humbled Yourself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. (Philippians 2:8) Help us to be courageous and obedient to God the Father.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

© 2013 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.