Bible Pathways

[Judy Harder]

Sept. 21, 2009
Read Joel 1 -- 3

Highlights In Today's Reading:

Joel's message: destruction (1:15). The sun and moon grow dark (2:2,9-10). Turn give me your heart (2:12-13). Worship through prayers of intercession and repentance (2:17); by rejoicing (2:23); be saved (2:32); dwell with God (3:17).
In the midst of a national economic disaster caused by drought, famine, and hordes of locusts, The Word of the Lord came to Joel. . . . Blow ye the trumpet in Zion, and sound an alarm in My holy mountain (1:1; 2:1). The trumpet was often used to call the people together. However, the trumpet was also used as an alarm to warn of an attack (Num. 10:1-9). In this instance, it is used to alarm the people to the crisis that is upon them because of their sinfulness.

Joel's message was a call for the soul-searching repentance which leads to submission to the Lord. True repentance is two-fold -- sorrow for sin against God, as well as others, and forsaking all sin to live for the Savior as Lord of our lives.

It was the desire to submit to the Lord that led about 120 people to assemble in an upper room on the Day of Pentecost.

The Apostle Paul also illustrated our great need to be controlled by the Holy Spirit when he wrote: Be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit (Eph. 5:18). This warning against the evils of drinking wine (all alcoholic beverages) may seem out of place until we recognize that Paul is illustrating how all alcoholic beverages do have the power to control the human body and mind.

There are no exceptions and it is unmistakably clear: Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging: and whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise. . . . Look not thou upon the wine when it is red, when it giveth his colour in the cup, when it moveth itself aright. At the last it biteth like a serpent, and stingeth like an adder (poisonous snake) (Prov. 20:1; 23:31-32). (Satan seeks to destroy you.)

In contrast, when we are filled with the Holy Spirit, He lovingly provides wisdom to guide our thoughts, our attitudes, and our actions.

Be not deceived: neither . . . adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind . . . nor drunkards . . . shall inherit the Kingdom of God (I Cor. 6:9-10).

He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy (Prov. 28:13).

Thought for Today:

Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God (I Cor. 10:31).
Christ Revealed:

As the One who said: I will pour out My Spirit upon all flesh (people) (Joel 2:28) -- fulfilled in part on the Day of Pentecost and still being fulfilled today (Acts 2:16-18).
Word Studies:

1:12 languisheth = withers away; 1:16 meat = food; 1:17 garners = storehouses, granaries; 2:6 gather blackness = turn pale with terror.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Staff: Benjamin Wallace • Country: Cuba (11.2 million) on the northern rim of the Caribbean • Major language: Spanish • Strict government surveillance of all true Christian activities • 40% Catholic; 10% Protestant; 2-10% Santeria; 1% Other; 40% None • Prayer Suggestion: Magnify the Lord; exalt His Name (Ps. 34:3).
Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 12:50

[Judy Harder]

Sept. 22, 2009
Read Amos 1 -- 5

Highlights In Today's Reading:

God uses Amos, a lowly herdsman, who is burdened over sins of the Northern Kingdom (1:1-2). First a prophecy against their neighbors (1:3 -- 2:3). Next against Judah and Israel (2:4-16). Why (3:2,10)? An enemy is coming (3:11). The people talk the talk but don't walk the walk. God wants a river of righteous living (5:23-24).
Amos was only a laborer from Judah; but he was willing to speak out against sin, even beyond the borders of the Southern Kingdom. Amos delivered a prophecy in Bethel when the Northern Kingdom was experiencing economic prosperity. Since the people of Israel were proud of their prosperity and heritage, it must have been a rude awakening to hear this "outsider" shout: The Lord hath spoken against you . . . Israel . . . I will punish you for all your iniquities (3:1-3).

Amos courageously continued: Thus saith the Lord God; An adversary . . . shall bring down thy strength from thee, and thy palaces shall be spoiled (3:11). The Northern Kingdom's (Israel's) moral and religious corruption made the prophesied downfall inevitable (2:6-8; 5:11-12).

Amos spoke as if the death of the Northern Kingdom had already taken place: Israel is fallen; she shall no more rise (5:2). However, these idol worshipers did not take the prophet seriously when he said: I know your . . . mighty sins. . . . Seek good, and not evil, that ye may live (5:12,14). The prophet's message of God's love was rejected. Amaziah, the idolatrous priest, told Jeroboam II about this miserable prophet from Judah. Amaziah said unto Amos . . . go, flee . .. . into the land of Judah . . . and prophesy there (7:12).

Israel was a chosen nation -- an elect people. God had delivered them out of Egypt and miraculously helped them to conquer the promised land. But Israel failed to keep His Commandments.

As Christians, we too have a miraculous heritage. We have been saved from the bondage of sin and delivered from satanic control through Christ's sacrificial death on the cross. Like Israel, we too are tempted to be ungrateful and forget that we are not our own -- we are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's (I Cor. 6:20). It's easy also to ignore our responsibility to be obedient in reaching a lost world with His Word.

God often uses ordinary people to speak for Him. It is not what we own but who owns us that qualifies us to be used by Him. Ye see your calling, brethren . . . not many wise men after the flesh . . . are called . . . God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the mighty (I Cor. 1:26-27).

Thought for Today:

The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom: a good understanding have all they that do His Commandments (Ps. 111:10).
Christ Revealed:

As the fiery (Amos 1:4,7,10,12,14; 2:2,5; 5:6) judge (chap. 1 -- 5). Jesus . . . was ordained of God to be the Judge (Acts 10:38-42; also II Tim. 4:1; Rev. 2:18-23). His eyes were as a flame of fire (Rev. 1:14; also 2:18).
Word Studies:

2:13 pressed = burdened; 3:5 gin = trap; 3:14 visit = with punishment; 4:1 kine of Bashan = were the fat cows, raised in the best pasturelands; but here, it is used figuratively in referring to self-gratifying, sensual, influential women who encourage their husbands to do wrong; masters = husbands; 4:3 breaches = breaks in the city wall; cast them into the palace = cast them into the mire (dunghill); 4:9 blasting = blight; 5:21 smell = be pleased, take delight; 5:23 viols = harps.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Staff: Ilene Wallace • Government Officials: Rep. Bob Goodlatte (VA), Rep. Dan Lungren (CA), and Rep. John Tanner (TN) • Country: Cyprus (754,000) in the Middle East • Major languages: Greek and Turkish • No open evangelism or conversions to Christ • 75% Greek Orthodox; 19% Muslim; 1% Protestant; 1% Roman Catholic • Prayer Suggestion: Pray and the Lord will free you from your fears (Ps. 34:4).
Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 12:50

[Judy Harder]

Sept. 23, 2009
Read Amos 6 -- Obadiah 1

Highlights In Today's Reading:

Five visions: (1) Locusts — an invading army (7:1-3); (2) Fire — consumed by (7:4-6); (3) A plumb line — measuring correctness, Israel defective (7:7-9); (4) Ripe fruit — the end is coming (8:1-14); (5) God at the altar — Israel to be destroyed (9:1-10). God's promise to David kept (9:11-15). God speaks to Edom (Obad. 1:4,15-18, 20-21).
The Edomites were descendants of Esau and had been hostile to the Israelites throughout the centuries. Jacob had risked his life to retain his God-given right of ownership of the birthright which had been foreordained by the Lord (Gen. 25:23). Esau, on the other hand, had shown contempt for the birthright by exchanging it for a simple meal of pottage (25:33-34). Knowing the hearts of these two men, God said of them: Jacob have I loved (chosen), but Esau have I hated (Rom. 9:13; Mal. 1:2-3). As the world motivated by Satan hates Christians, the Edomites, throughout their history, hated the Israelites.

The proud Edomites felt secure in their inaccessible mountain fortress of Seir, and their attitude of self-sufficiency caused them to ignore the warning of the prophet Obadiah. Social prestige, wealth, and power bring the same sense of false security to many today. Some are deceived by self-confidence in their own strength and possessions, and they fail to realize that pride goeth before destruction (Prov. 16:18).

About four years after the fall of Jerusalem, Nebuchadnezzar's military forces swept through Ammon, Moab, and Edom. The surviving Edomites then moved into the southern part of Judah which they had seized shortly after the Jews went into captivity. Several hundred years after that, this terrority was known as Idumaea. The Edomites never succeeded in reconquering the land of Seir and, after the fall of Jerusalem in A.D. 70, their name disappeared from history, just as Obadiah had foretold: For thy violence against thy brother Jacob shame shall cover thee, and thou shalt be cut off for ever (Obad. 1:10).

This is a warning to anyone who takes advantage of or rejoices over someone else's misfortunes. The message of Obadiah also gives a sense of assurance, encouragement, and hope to the people of God. Even when faced with overwhelming odds, the justice of God and the assurance of His faithfulness gives us courage that the principles of right and wrong never fail: Whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap (Gal. 6:7).

In contrast to the Edomites' attitude is the trustworthy message of our Lord Jesus Christ, assuring His disciples: Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy (Matt. 5:7).

Thought for Today:

And they that know Thy Name will put their trust in Thee: for Thou, Lord, hast not forsaken them that seek thee (Ps. 9:10).
Christ Revealed:

As the Plumbline (Amos 7:7-8). A plumb line is an instrument used in measuring an absolutely straight vertical line. Christ alone is qualified to walk in the midst of His people, measuring and exposing good and bad, true and false (Rev. 2 & 3).
Word Studies:

Amos 6:8 excellency of Jacob = pride, arrogance (Jacob means the whole of Israel, including the palaces of Jerusalem and Samaria); 6:11 with breaches = into ruins; with clefts = fragments; 6:13 horns by our own strength = pride over their accomplishments, military power (Deuteronomy 33:17; I Kings 22:11).
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Shortwave Broadcasts in honor of Debbi Belisle • Staff: Pam Pendergrast • Country: Czech Republic (10 million) in central Europe • Major languages: Czech and Slovak • Religious freedom • 63% Catholic; 7% Protestant; 4% Eastern Orthodox • Prayer Suggestion: Revere and worship the Lord with godly fear and you will have no want (Ps. 34:9).
Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 12:50
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[Judy Harder]

Sept. 24, 2009
Read Jonah 1 -- 4

Highlights In Today's Reading:

Learn a lesson from Jonah who learns firsthand what it means to hit rock bottom spiritually and emotionally. He cries to God who answers (2:2,7). The enemy humbly prays for mercy (3:6-10). Jonah gets angry because God does not destroy them (4:1-2).
The Lord directed Jonah: Arise, go to Nineveh, that great city, and cry against it; for their wickedness is come up before Me. But Jonah rose up to flee unto Tarshish from the presence of the Lord (1:2-3). It appears that Jonah decided that, since Nineveh was a wicked, heathen city and a potential threat to Israel, it didn't deserve a warning before being destroyed. He was probably even delighted in the good news that the judgment of God would soon fall upon it.

Jonah decided to enjoy a vacation and must have felt that God had graciously arranged for a ship sailing to Tarshish (the most remote of the Phoenician trading cities) on the exact day he arrived in Joppa. Nineveh was several hundred miles east of Israel, but Tarshish was a seaport city in the western Mediterranean.

For a brief time, events seem to favor Jonah's "vacation plan" and gave him such a peace of mind that he was soon fast asleep on the ship (1:5). However, favorable circumstances in avoiding the will of God are only temporary and they never lead to a pleasant end. Jonah was thrown overboard and swallowed by a big fish. After three days of soul-searching, a repentant Jonah was vomited onto dry land by the great fish. He then became the greatest evangelist of his day, resulting in the entire city of Nineveh repenting of its wickedness.

God could have chosen another prophet and let Jonah drown in the sea. But God was merciful and dealt patiently with Jonah, teaching him the importance of obedience, and demonstrating His love and longsuffering toward both the prophet and the repentant pagan sinners.

God loved this disobedient prophet too much to permit him to enjoy his selfish ways. Like Jonah, some of us persist in pleasing ourselves rather than prayerfully doing the will of God.

Jonah eventually submitted to the will of God. Today, as servants of the Lord, we can avoid Jonah's "mistakes." The willingness of God to forgive even the greatest of sinners who repents was made known when Nineveh's king and its people repented and were spared from the destruction that Jonah had prophesied.

The Apostle Peter declared: The Lord . . . is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance (II Pet. 3:9).

Thought for Today:

Gracious is the Lord, and righteous; yea, our God is merciful (Ps. 116:5).
Christ Revealed:

By Jonah's experience in the great fish (Jon. 1:7 -- 2:10). Jesus used this historical event as an illustration to tell of His death, burial, and resurrection when the Pharisees demanded a sign from Him (Matt. 12:39-41; also I Cor. 15:3-4).
Word Study:

2:2 hell = in O.T. 31 times (from Sheol, used about 65 times) = to hide, cover, or the grave. In the N.T. Jesus used hell (from Hades, Gehenna) to explain an after-death place of torments (Matt. 8:29; Luke 16:23,28; Rev. 14:10; 20:10); 2:8 lying vanities = worthless idols, false worship; 3:10 God repented = he was grieved; 4:5 booth = shelter; 4:8 vehement = scorching.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for English International Shortwave Broadcasts sponsored by Joe & Betty Crawford • Staff: Gina Lesnefsky • Country: Denmark (5 million) in northern Europe • Major languages: Danish and Faroese • Religious freedom • 92% Protestant; 1% Muslim; .5% Roman Catholic; .5% cults; .1% Jewish • Prayer Suggestion: Pray that God will keep you from speaking evil (Ps. 34:13).
Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 12:50
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[Judy Harder]

Sept. 25, 2009

Read Micah 1 -- 7
Highlights In Today's Reading:

Micah, a contemporary of Isaiah, details astonishing power and might of God (1:3-4), who is worthy of our praise and worship (7:7-20). Predicted judgment breaks the Father's heart. He sheds tears (1:. Jesus foreshadowed (2:13; 5:2,4). Persecution by nations but God has a plan (4:11-12). Check out the bottom line (6:.
About 700 years before Jesus was born, Micah foretold: Thou, Bethlehem Ephratah, though thou be little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of thee shall He come forth unto Me that is to be Ruler in Israel; whose goings forth have been from of old, from everlasting (5:2). This clearly indicates the deity of our Redeemer King. Jesus could not be Messianic King and Savior of Mankind and suffer for the sins of the world if He had inherited a sinful nature like everyone else. Gabriel announced to Mary: Thou shalt . . . bring forth a son. . . . He shall be . . . called the Son of the Highest . . . of His Kingdom there shall be no end (Luke 1:31-35).

When Ceasar Augustus (the Roman ruler, sent out a decree), that all the world should be taxed. . . . (only God knew why, not even) Joseph (who) . . . went up (obeying the decree) from Galilee, out of . . . Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David . . . called Bethlehem (2:1,4). As a descendant of King David, Joseph had to go to David's hometown of Bethlehem, about 70 miles south of Nazareth, to register for this decree.

However, the Sovereign God who determines history prompted the emperor's decree at the exact time that the King of kings was to be born to fulfill Micah's prophecy.

Wise men from the East were led by a star to Jerusalem to ask King Herod: Where is He that is born King of the Jews? (Matt. 2:2). Herod was not a Jew and was not born king. He was an Edomite, a puppet-king appointed by Caesar Augustus. Being exceedingly fearful that someone would take his position, Herod called the chief priests and scribes and demanded of them where Christ should be born (2:4). Without hesitation, they said: In Bethlehem of Judaea: for thus it is written by the prophet (2:5).

When we receive Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord of our lives, we are born again by His Spirit and become children of God with His spiritual nature (John 1:12-13). Our bodies become Temples of the Living God. What gives our lives meaning is the One who lives within us and expresses Himself through us. We should be an expression of Christ through our lives so that the world will see Christ in you, the hope of glory (Col. 1:27).

Thought for Today:

All the earth shall worship Thee, and . . . they shall sing to Thy Name (Ps. 66:4).
Christ Revealed:

As the Ruler in Israel (Mic. 5:2). Jesus will not only rule Israel but the world. She brought forth a man Child, who was to rule all nations (Rev. 12:5).
Word Studies:

1:16 Make thee bald, and poll thee = shave your head as a sign of sorrow for your children shall be taken from you into exile; 2:5 none that shall cast a cord by lot = no one who shall divide inheritances (because there shall be no inheritance to divide -- see vs 4); 2:7 straitened = limited; do not My words do good to him that walketh uprightly = this speaks of our Creator, the Spirit of the Lord, and His Word, His perfect guide to life; 2:13 The Breaker refers here to Messiah; 6:9 hear ye the rod = obey the rod, the instrument of the coming judgment of God.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Shortwave Broadcasts in honor of Joshua Belisle • Staff: Barbara Jean Loyd • Government Officials: Rep. Jerry Costello (IL), Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart (FL), Sec. Robert Gates (Dept. of Defense), Rep. Doris Matsui (CA), and Rep. Gregory Meeks (NY) • Country: Djibouti (447,000) in eastern Africa • Major languages: French and Arabic • Limited religious freedom • 91% Muslim; 7% Roman Catholic; .75% Eastern Orthodox; about 300 Protestants • Prayer Suggestion: Call to the Lord for help; He will save you out of your troubles (Ps. 34:17).
Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 12:50
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[Judy Harder]

Sept. 26, 2009
Read Nahum 1 -- Habakkuk 3

Highlights In Today's Reading:

How quickly we forget — Nineveh, in Assyria! Written with strong imagery, a sense of suspense, vivid language, yet a word of hope for God's Covenant people (chap. 1 — 3). Habakkuk, a poet and prophet, hated sin (Hab. 1:2-4). His sense of judgment challenges God's plan (1:12 — 2:1). His beautiful poem of praise (3:1-19).
About 150 years had passed since the great revival of Jonah's day, when all of Nineveh repented and fasted, and its king commanded: Let them turn every one from his evil way . . . And God saw their works, that they turned from their evil way (Jon. 3:8-10). But the Ninevites had failed to teach their children about the mercy and love of God, and so, over a period of time, they slipped back into their sinful ways. Nineveh, the capital of Assyria, controlled the world but sin controlled them.

Nineveh had enriched itself by wars and conquests and was probably the most brutal of the ancient heathen nations.

Nahum forewarned: Woe to the bloody city! it is all full of lies and robbery. . . . Nineveh is laid waste. . . . the sword shall cut thee off. . . . thy people is scattered upon the mountains (Nah. 3:1,7,15,18). It was destroyed exactly as foretold. The once great city of Nineveh still lies in ruins as a witness to the consequence of ignoring the Word of God.

The time had come for God to judge this wicked city. The prophet Nahum spoke assuringly to Judah, which was suffering under Assyrian oppression: O Judah, keep thy solemn feasts, perform thy vows: for the wicked (king of Assyria) shall no more pass through thee; he is utterly cut off (1:15).

As Nahum had prophesied the fall of Assyria for its oppression of Israel, Habakkuk foretold the coming judgment of God upon His idol-worshiping people in Judah, using Babylon as His instrument.

Habakkuk lamented: O Lord, Thou hast ordained them for judgment. (Hab. 1:12). But our Creator will always execute righteous judgment in every situation upon all nations and every individual.

God is just as uncompromising toward sin today as He was when He destroyed Sodom, Gomorrah, Nineveh, and then Babylon. Yet the Lord also desires to forgive even the most sinful person who truly repents and turns to Him, just as He did the Ninevites (Nah. 1:7) when Jonah proclaimed the Word of God. In faith, we look forward to a future day when the earth shall be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the Lord, as the waters cover the sea (Hab. 2:4,14; Rom. 1:17; Gal. 3:11; Heb. 10:38; 11:1-6).

Thought for Today:

The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in Him, and I am helped (Ps. 28:7).
Christ Revealed:

As the One whom even the sea obeys (Nah. 1:4). Jesus rebuked the winds and the sea; and there was a great calm (Matt. 8:26-27).
Word Studies:

Nahum 1:12 quiet = strong, safe, secure; 1:14 no more of thy name be sown = nothing of your name will remain; 2:7 tabering = beating; 3:19 bruit = report. Habakkuk 1:4 the law is slacked = the law is never enforced.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Staff: Staff: Ken Sharp • Country: Dominica (65,000) in the British West Indies • Major languages: English and French patois • Religious freedom • 75% Roman Catholic; 12% Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: Pray not to be envious of others (Ps. 37:1).
Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 12:50

[Judy Harder]

Sept. 27, 2009
Read Zephaniah 1 -- Haggai 2

Highlights In Today's Reading:

The Day of the Lord —when all nations willl worship God (2:11; 3:9). Rejoice, God is with you (3:14-20). Worship: Results of ignoring (Hag. 1:9-11). God's presence and blessing promised (1:13;2:4-5,19).
The Israelites who had left Persia started to rebuild the Temple in Jerusalem with great enthusiasm. Their devotedness soon faded as they became involved in building their own homes and in two years they had only laid the foundation for the Temple. Added to this was the constant opposition by Samaritan enemies distracting them from their primary reason for being there. "Excuses" were made for not resuming work on the Temple.

Meanwhile, the people mentioned in the first paragraph developed their own businesses and rebuilding the Temple looked hopeless. About 14 years passed with nothing accomplished. We Christians know that Jesus said: Take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or . . . Wherewithal shall we be clothed? . . . But seek ye first the Kingdom of God . . . and all these things shall be added unto you (Matt. 6:31-33).

Then God moved upon the prophet Haggai to proclaim: Thus speaketh the Lord of hosts, saying, This people say, The time is not come, the time that the Lord's House should be built. Then came the Word of the Lord by Haggai . . . Is it time for you . . . to dwell in your cieled houses, and this House lie waste? (Hag. 1:2-4). Two months later, Zechariah also began proclaiming the Word of the Lord: Fear not, but let your hands be strong (Zech. 8:13; Ezra 5:1; Hag. 1:3-11).

Regardless of what their excuses were, the Lord explained the real reason for their problems: Consider your ways. Ye have sown much, and bring in little . . . and he that earneth wages earneth wages to put it into a bag with holes (Hag. 1:5-6). Upon hearing the Word of the Lord, the people renewed their dedication to worship and serve Him. They ignored their enemies who had written to Darius to try and stop the Jews (Ezra 5:6-17). The elders of the Jews builded, and they prospered (6:14); and the Temple was completed in just four years.

Like in the days of Haggai, many Christians don't read through the Word of God. Without the Truth, they become victims of every wind of doctrine (Eph. 4:14). Many fall into sin because of not knowing what the Bible teaches (Acts 20:27). The Apostle Paul explained: By the Law is the knowledge of sin (Rom. 3:20). I had not known sin, but by the Law: for I had not known lust, except the Law had said, Thou shalt not covet (Rom. 7:7).

Thought for Today:

The words of the Lord are pure words: as silver tried in a furnace of earth, purified seven times (Ps. 12:6).
Christ Revealed:

As King of Israel, even the Lord (Zeph. 3:15; compare John 1:49).
Word Studies:

Zephaniah 1:4 Chemarims = the idolatrous priests in charge; 1:9 leap on the threshold = push into houses to confiscate the property by extortion and deceit; 2:15 carelessly = securely, with no equal; Haggai 2:7 desire of all nations = the One desired by all people, the Messiah, Jesus Christ.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Staff: Staff: Pam Pendergrast • Country: Dominica (65,000) in the British West Indies • Major languages: English and French patois • Religious freedom • 75% Roman Catholic; 12% Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: Pray not to be envious of others (Ps. 37:1).
Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 15:4

[Judy Harder]

Sept. 28, 2009
Read Zechariah 1 -- 7

Highlights In Today's Reading:

The future Jerusalem comforted (1:16-17) and restored (2:10). Satan ever accusing (3:1-2). Joshua, the High Priest, a foreshadow of Jesus, the BRANCH, the Source of all our spiritual blessings (3:. Ten visions each interpreted by Scripture (chap. 4 -- 6). False fast (7:5-6), true fast (7:8-10).
Zechariah foretold of a future time when the Son of God would be among the Israelites. He wrote: Sing and rejoice, O daughter of Zion: for, lo, I come, and I will dwell in the midst of thee, saith the Lord (2:10). Zechariah foretold the rejection of Jesus as the Messiah. He also saw beyond the restoration of the Jewish nation to the redemptive inclusion of all Gentiles who turn from their sins and receive Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord of their lives.

Many nations shall be joined to the Lord in that day, and shall be My people: and I will dwell in the midst of thee (2:11).

It is usually when we come to the end of our resources and lose confidence in our own abilities that we learn to trust only in the Lord.

The work of God is not accomplished by might, meaning our strength, talents, zeal, attributes, or finances; nor is it by power, meaning human efforts; but it is only by My Spirit, saith the Lord of hosts (4:6). The power of the Word of God, anointed by the Holy Spirit, is indispensible. This is the key that imparts faith and yields eternal results.

So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God (Rom. 10:17). It is of utmost importance that we diligently obey the voice of the Lord your God (Zech. 6:15). As we read His Word with a desire to do His will it always strengthens our faith.

There is a glorious revelation of Jesus as The Branch given by Zechariah. He shall grow up out of His place, and He shall build the Temple of the Lord (6:12). Jesus will build the Millennial Temple of which Isaiah and Ezekiel spoke, and shall sit and rule upon His throne; and He shall be a Priest upon His throne (6:13).

Difficulties are merely tests to help us recognize whether our faith is in ourselves and our resources or in the Lord.

All of those in the household of faith have received precious promises so that we are partakers of the divine nature through which we escape the corruption that is in the world (II Pet. 1:4).

Thought for Today:

Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding (Prov. 3:5).
Christ Revealed:

As My Servant the BRANCH (Zech. 3:. Christ was brought into the world in the fulness of the time (Gal. 4:4), and took upon Him the form of a servant (Phil. 2:7). But He will soon return as the Righteous Branch to reign as King (Jer. 23:5).
Word Studies:

1:15 forward the affliction = heathen nations increased your afflictions beyond My intentions; 1:19 horns = world powers; 1:21 fray = terrorize; 3:5 mitre = turban; 5:1 roll = God's Word was written on parchment or skins then rolled up.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for English International Shortwave Broadcasts sponsored by Miss Helayne Abrams • Staff: Mike Moore • Government Official: Rep. Bill Cassidy (LA) • Country: Ecuador (13 million) in South America, crossed by the equator • Major language: Spanish • Religious freedom • 91% Roman Catholic; 3% Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: Rest in the Lord; wait patiently for Him (Ps. 37:7).
Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 15:4

[Judy Harder]

Sept. 29, 2009
Read Zechariah 8 -- 14

Highlights In Today's Reading:

My people (8:8; 10:6-12). Hear the prophets (8:9). Fantastic revelations of Jesus, the Messiah, hundreds of years before His birth: (9:9; 11:12-13; 12:10;13:7). Like the remnant, we too can be refined like silver (13:9). His triumphant return to earth (14:4-9).
As Jesus entered Jerusalem the last week before His crucifixion, we read that a very great multitude . . . cried, saying, Hosanna to the Son of David: Blessed is He that cometh in the Name of the Lord (Matt. 21:8-9). This was His formal declaration and recognition as the Messiah-King, and a fulfillment of prophecy: Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion; shout, O daughter of Jerusalem: behold, thy King cometh unto thee: He is just, and having salvation; lowly, and riding upon an ass (Zech. 9:9). The cry Hosanna (Save Us) by the people was rejected by the religious leaders who, instead, shouted: Crucify Him (Mark 15:13). More than 500 years before it took place, Zechariah prophesied the events of Judas' transactions with the religious leaders saying: I said unto them, If ye think good, give me my price; and if not, forbear. So they weighed for my price thirty pieces of silver. And the Lord said unto me, cast it unto the potter (Zech. 11:12-13; Matt. 27:9-10; Ex. 21:32; Matt. 26:15). Our precious Savior and Lord, the true King of kings, was rejected and sold for the price of a slave — for a mere thirty pieces of silver.

About 2,000 years have gone by and we will soon see the fulfillment of another prophecy, when Israel will recognize and exalt its Messiah as foretold: I will pour upon the House of David . . . the Spirit of grace . . . and they shall look upon Me whom they have pierced, and they shall mourn for Him, as one mourneth for his only son (Zech. 12:10).

Zechariah also foretold Jesus Christ's return to earth from heaven (14:9). Behold, the day of the Lord cometh . . . I will gather all nations against Jerusalem to battle . . . Then shall the Lord go forth, and fight against those nations. . . . And the Lord shall be King over all the earth (14:1-4,9). What a spectacular future.

Like the first disciples of Christ, we are all tempted to focus our time on the details of future events. But, remember what Jesus said to His disciples on the Mount of Olives when they asked: Lord, wilt Thou at this time restore again the Kingdom to Israel? . . . He said unto them, It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in His own power (Acts 1:6-7).

Thought for Today:

Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in Thy presence is fullness of joy; at Thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore (Ps. 16:11).
Christ Revealed:

As King and as a Servant sold for thirty pieces of silver (Zech. 9:9; 11:12). They covenanted with him for thirty pieces of silver (Matt. 26:15).
Word Studies:

8:2 was jealous . . . with great jealousy = loved with great protective love; 10:3 goats = civic and political leaders; 10:8 hiss = signal; 11:7 Beauty, and . . . Bands = two shepherd's staffs; 14:9 His Name One = Jesus will be recognized and reign as God with no rival false god.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Staff: George Kopchak • Government Officials: Rep. Joseph Donnelly (IN), Rep. John McHugh (NY) and Sen. Bill Nelson (FL) • Country: Egypt (66 million) in northeastern Africa • Major languages: Arabic and English • Christians are not permitted to evangelize Muslims • 87.5% Muslim; 12% Christian; .5% Other • Prayer Suggestion: Sing praises to God, for He hears your prayers and delivers you (Ps. 40:1-3).
Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 15:4


   

[Judy Harder]

Sept. 30, 2009
Read Malachi 1 -- 4

Highlights In Today's Reading:

Casual attitude toward the Lord and worship. Their worship is sloppy and the priests neglect the commands of God. Unworthy sacrifices indicate no honor or respect (1:7-10,12-14). The Messiah, worthy of pure offerings (3:2-3). Repent (3:6-9). Support the work of the Lord (3:10-12). Get ready! Judgment cometh (4:1-6)!
To illustrate our responsibility and relationship with our Heavenly Father, Malachi was led by the Holy Spirit to write: A son honoureth his father. and a servant his master: If then I be a Father, where is Mine honour? and if I be a Master, where is My fear? saith the Lord of hosts unto you (1:6).

Malachi said the Israelites were thieves in robbing God of His tithes and offerings (3:.

The Israelites were instructed: Honour the Lord with thy substance, and with the firstfruits of all thine increase (Prov. 3:9). Surely as Christians we recognize that the standard of responsibility or loving liberality has not been lowered in the Kingdom of Christ. With all our privileges and opportunities to teach the world His Word, how could we think of giving less? Since we know that it is more blessed to give than to receive (Acts 20:35), our motivation surely would be to give at least a tenth of our income.

The principle of tithing precedes the giving of the Law by more than 500 years and was introduced by Abraham, the father of all them that believe (Rom. 4:11,16; Gal. 3:6-9), who gave to Melchizedek (the Lord's representative). . . . tithes of all (Gen. 14:18-20; Prov. 3:9-10;11:24-25; II Cor. 8:12;9:6-8). Hebrews records that this event set a spiritual precedent for the Levites who have a commandment to take tithes of the people according to the Law (Heb. 7:5).

Jesus said: Render therefore unto Caesar the things which are Caesar's; and unto God the things that are God's (Matt. 22:21). To refuse to give unto God the things that are God's is to keep for ourselves what is His. We are, at best, only stewards, caretakers, or managers. If, through selfishness or neglect, we keep for ourselves what belongs to His ministry, we are guilty of both robbing God and depriving lost souls of knowing the Lord by receiving His Word.

A tithe is merely what we owe. Offerings (Mal. 3: go beyond a tithe and are an expression of our love and gratitude for the privilege of being stewards of what the Lord has entrusted to us. Jesus said: Where your treasure is, there will your heart be also (Matt. 6:21).

Thought for Today:

The liberal soul shall be made fat: and he that watereth shall be watered also himself (Prov. 11:25).
Christ Revealed:

The Lord, whom ye seek, shall suddenly come to His Temple (Mal. 3:1). Jesus went into the Temple. . . . saying . . . My House shall be called . . . the House of prayer (Mark 11:15-17).
Word Studies:

1:6 fear = reverence, willing obedience; 1:13 snuffed at = sneered, lightly esteemed, despised, scorned; 2:12 The Lord will cut off . . . the master (who hath married the daughter of a strange god -- see 2:11) and the scholar = the priest and the layman will be rejected; 3:13 Your words have been stout against Me = your attitude has been harsh, strong against Me.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Shortwave Broadcasts sponsored by Dr. John A. Hash in memory of Letha Hash • Staff: Dan Murton • Government Official: Sen. Blanche Lincoln (AR) • Country: El Salvador (5.9 million) in Central America • Major language: Spanish • Some intolerance of Protestants by government officials • 75% Catholic; 20% Protestant; .5% Baha'i; 2.5% Other; 2% None • Prayer Suggestion: Pray to be sensitive to give God the praise for everything He does (Ps. 40:16).
Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 15:4