Bible Pathways

[Judy Harder]

Read II Kings 1 -- 3

Highlights:

Death of Ahaziah king of Israel; Elijah taken up by a whirlwind; Elisha purifies Jericho's water; Elisha ridiculed. History records one important question in the life of each king: Did he keep the Commandments of God, or ignore them? All of us will face this review: Do our actions and prayers indicate there is a God whom we desire to control our life (II Kin. 1:3)?
Ahaziah, the king of Israel, was on the rooftop patio of his palace when he accidentally fell through a lattice to the marble floor below and was fatally wounded.

He sent messengers and said unto them, Go, enquire of Baalzebub the god of Ekron whether I shall recover of this disease (injury). But the angel of the Lord said to Elijah . . . meet (intercept) the messengers. . . and say unto them, Is (there) not . . . a God in Israel, that ye go to enquire of Baalzebub the god of Ekron? Now therefore thus saith the Lord, thou . . . shalt surely die (II Kin. 1:2-4).

Ahaziah's servants returned and told the king what Elijah had said. Instead of turning to the Lord, Ahaziah expressed hatred for the prophet as his mother Jezebel had. He sent 50 soldiers to arrest Elijah and bring him into custody.

Ahaziah's unfaithfulness to God had hardened his heart, and he failed to see the hand of God in all that occurred — first in the death of his father, Ahab; then his mother Jezebel's violent death; and now his "accident." Because he did not turn to the Lord, Ahaziah died according to the Word of the Lord (1:17).

The providential circumstances of God have placed each of us exactly where we are. Even though we are not conscious of His presence, the Lord is in every circumstance. Not that we are sufficent of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God (II Cor. 3:5). Yes, His grace (loving-kindess, good will, mercy, compassion) is sufficient to meet every situation.

We may or may not be responsible for the circumstances in which we find ourselves, but we are responsible for the way we react to them. We can become angry with the people or things that God allows or brings into our lives, or we can yield to the Lord, who seeks to use our circumstances to change us into His likeness.

We have had fathers of our flesh which corrected us and we gave them reverance: shall we not much rather be in subjection unto the Father of spirits and live? . . . He (corrects us) for our profit, that we might be partakers of His holiness (Heb. 12:9-10).

Thought for Today:

For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them (Eph. 2:10).
Christ Revealed:

In the taking up of Elijah in the whirlwind and the dropping of his mantle — a symbol of the presence and power of God that remain with His faithful servant (II Kin. 2:8-15). This is a type of the ascension of the Lord Jesus Christ and His sending the Holy Spirit to indwell and empower believers to evangelize the world. He was parted from them, and carried up into heaven (Luke 24:51-53; Acts 1 — 2).
Word Studies:

1:8 girt with =b> wearing; girdle of leather about his loins =b> garment around his waist; 2:19 naught =olluted, bad; 2:24 tare =b> mauled or mangled; 3:9 fetched a compass =b> circled around; made a roundabout march; 3:27 offered him =b> burned him alive as a sacrifice to a god of Moab.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for our Military worldwide • International Broadcasts for the month of May sponsored by Mary Hoffmeyer • Government Official: Rep. Ed Perlmutter (CO) • Country: Guyana (705,000) on the northeastern coast of South America • Major languages: English and Amerindian dialects • The government is becoming increasingly Marxist, radical, and atheistic • 36% Hindu; 28% Protestant; 10% Roman Catholic; 9% Muslim • Prayer Suggestion: Intercede in prayer for those in authority over you (I Tim. 2:1-2).
Optional Reading: Romans 4

NOTE: Bible Pathway covers the Old Testament with devotional and commentary insights over a nine-month period, January through September. Each day during these months, an optional reading of one chapter a day from the New Testament will also be listed. The October, November, and December issues will provide a daily commentary on the New Testament readings. Thus, the reader goes through the New Testament twice each year using the Bible Pathway plan.
Memory Verse for the Week: John 1:1-2

[Judy Harder]

Monday, May 3, 2010 

Read II Kings 6 -- 8

Highlights:

Can you imagine being so in tune with God that you hear and do all His Commandments (II Kin. 6:15)? The ax head made to float; the king of Syria attacks Israel (6:; famine in Samaria; Elisha's prophecy fulfilled; the Holy Spirit guides them. God uses the most "unlikely" to satisfy the prophet's hunger (6:24 — 7:20).
The Syrian soldiers had been miraculously blinded and were then led by Elisha inside the walls of the capital city of Samaria. Once trapped there, the soldiers had been at the mercy of the king of Israel. However, at Elisha's command, the king prepared great provision (a great feast) for them: and when they had eaten and drunk, he sent them away, and they went to their master. So the bands of Syria came no more into the land of Israel. And it came to pass after this, that Ben-hadad king of Syria gathered all his host, and went up, and besieged Samaria (II Kin. 6:23-25).

The once-powerful, luxurious, fortress city of Samaria was faced with all the horrors of an extended famine. To surrender to Syria meant death for King Jehoram (Joram) and slavery for his people. But, remaining within the walls eventually reduced the people to starvation; some even resorted to cannibalism, as one woman confessed: We boiled my son and did eat him (6:29). Because the Israelites had rejected the Word of God, they were helpless before the Syrians as God had forewarned (Lev. 26:14-29; Deut. 28:15,53).

But God, in mercy, once again intervened, and the prophet Elisha confidently prophesied that food would be plentiful and cheap the next day: Elisha said, Hear ye the Word of the Lord . . . To morrow about this time shall a measure of fine flour be sold for a shekel, and two measures of barley for a shekel, in the gate of Samaria (II Kin. 7:1). One of the king's officials ridiculed Elisha, saying: Behold, if the Lord would make windows in heaven, might this thing be? Elisha replied: Behold, thou shalt see it with thine eyes, but shalt not eat thereof (7:2).

The prophecy was miraculously fulfilled when God, in His marvelous mercy, sent fear into the hearts of the Syrian army and they hurriedly abandoned their camp, leaving their food. The king's official was trampled to death in the rush for food (7:17).

Obedient Christians can rejoice. God will supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus (Phil. 4:19). God has provided an abundance of spiritual food for all who will accept it.

Thought for Today:

Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God (Matt. 4:4).
Christ Portrayed:

By Elisha, who wept when he realized what Hazael would do to Israel and its people (II Kin. 8:11-12). We are reminded of Jesus as He wept over Jerusalem: O Jerusalem, Jerusalem . . . how often would I have gathered thy children together . . . and ye would not! (Matt. 23:37).
Word Studies:

6:1 strait =b> small, too confined; 6:30 within =b> next to, underneath; 7:5 uttermost part =b> borders; 8:11 settled his countenance =b> stared intensely; 8:26 daughter =b> granddaughter.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Bible Pathway Media Producer: Rick Hash • International Broadcasts sponsored by Mr. Mark Peterson • Government Officials: Rep. Ralph Hall (TX), Gov. C.L. Butch Otter (ID), Sen. David Vitter (LA), Sen. Jim Risch (ID), and Sen. Ron Wyden (OR) • Country: Honduras (6 million) in Central America • Major languages: Spanish and Indian dialects • Religious freedom • 86% Roman Catholic; 10% Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: Raise your hands in praise and prayer, and worship the Lord (I Tim. 2:.
Optional Reading: Romans 6

Memory Verse for the Week: John 1:3

[Judy Harder]

Read II Kings 9 -- 10

Highlights:

God calls the young man the prophet (II Kin. 9:4) to anoint Jehu king of Israel. Jehu kills Joram and Ahaziah. Prophecy of Jezebel's death is fulfilled and Baal worshipers executed. Jehu's 28-year reign ends (10:34-36).
After Ahab's death, his son Ahaziah reigned over Israel for two years, followed by the 12-year reign of another son, Jehoram (known also as Joram). Due to the influence of their wicked mother Jezebel, these two kings zealously promoted Baal worship. Baal worship became popular in Judah due to its king, Jehoram, who had married Jezebel's daughter Athaliah. Their son, also named Ahaziah, was a wicked king.

During this time of spiritual decline, the Lord selected Jehu, the military commander of Israel's armies, as His instrument of judgment and king of Israel as God had earlier revealed to Elijah (I Kin. 19:16). Perhaps 20 years passed before the Lord directed Elisha to send a young prophet to Ramoth-gilead, where Jehu was stationed with his army. The prophet anointed Jehu as king of Israel and the God-appointed executioner of Jehoram and all the descendants of Ahab (II Kin. 9:6-7).

Jehu drove his chariot furiously (9:20) to Jezreel where he executed Joram (Jehoram), and then Ahaziah, king of Judah. Then Jehu had Jezebel thrown out of a window and he trampled her with his horse. And the dogs ate her body (9:33-37). It was the canine feast in that location (the field of Naboth) as foretold, fulfilling the Word of God by Elijah against Ahab (I Kin. 21:19-23).

The violent and untimely deaths of Jezebel, King Ahab, and King Jehoram confirm the limitation of earthly power. Many have died prematurely because of disobedience to God.

Jehu zealously executed all the family of Ahab in Samaria (I Kin. 21:17-24). However, Athaliah, as queen of Judah, promoted Baal worship. Jehu had bragged to Jehonadab: Come with me, and see my zeal for the Lord (II Kin. 10:16). But he did not execute Athaliah. Jehu's zeal for the Lord was just enough to achieve his own selfish ends. Jehu took no heed to walk in the Law of the Lord God of Israel with all his heart . . . he departed not from the sins of Jeroboam, which made Israel to sin (10:31). It is possible for one to be used by God and yet never be in submission to Christ as Lord of one's life. How sad to be so near to and yet so far from eternal reward. This is the will of God . . . That every one of you should know how to possess his vessel (control his body) in sanctification and honour. . . . For God hath not called us unto uncleanness, but unto holiness (I Thess. 4:3-4,7).

Thought for Today:

Be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God (Rom. 12:2).
Christ Portrayed:

By Elisha who sent one of the sons of the prophets with oil to anoint Jehu (II Kin. 9:1-6). Oil symbolizes the Holy Spirit, and the Lord sent the Holy Spirit to anoint believers (John 14:16-17; 16:13; Acts 1:8; compare I Sam. 16:13). The anointing which ye have received of Him abideth (lives) in you (I John 2:27).
Word Studies:

9:23 treachery =b> treason; 9:30 tired her head =b> adorned her hair; 10:3 Look even out the best and meetest =b> Select the most capable; 10:27 draught house =b> public toilet.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Naomi R. Peyton • Staff: Al Joslyn • Country: Hong Kong (7 million) in eastern Asia • Major languages: Chinese and English • Limited religious freedom • 90% Chinese religions; 10% Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: Trust in God and offer up your prayers night and day (I Tim. 5:5).
Optional Reading: Romans 7

Memory Verse for the Week: John 1:3

 

[Judy Harder]

Read II Kings 11 -- 13

Highlights:

Athaliah murders all of David's descendants but, God protects the baby Joash, who eventually is crowned king; he repairs the Temple, restores worship; evil reign of Jehoahaz, king of Israel.
Joash, king of Israel, had often ignored the prophet Elisha's counsel, for he did that which was evil in the sight of the Lord; he departed not from all the sins of Jeroboam the son of Nebat, who made Israel sin: but he walked therein (13:11). Out of respect for the dying, aged prophet, King Joash went to visit him. Though Joash was the king, he recognized that Elisha had been the stabilizing force in Israel, and he wept over his face, and said, O my father, my father, the chariot of Israel, and the horsemen thereof (13:14).

Israel was at war with Syria. As a sign that God intended to give victory to the Israelites, Elisha said unto him (Joash), Take bow and arrows. And he took unto him bow and arrows. And he said to the king of Israel, Put thine hand upon the bow. And he put his hand upon it. Elisha (as the representative of God) put his hands upon the king's hands. And he said, Open the window eastward. And he opened it. Then Elisha said, Shoot. And he shot. And he said, The arrow of the Lord's deliverance . . . from Syria: for thou shalt smite the Syrians in Aphek, till thou have consumed them. And he said . . . Take the arrows. And he took them. And he said unto the king of Israel, Smite upon the ground. And he smote thrice, and stayed. And the man of God was wroth with him, and said, Thou shouldest have smitten five or six times; then hadst thou smitten Syria till thou hadst consumed it . . . now thou shalt smite Syria but thrice (13:15-19).

Elisha was angry at Joash's halfheartedness. God desires not only that we serve Him, but that we do so with all our heart. There is a tendency for some Christians to be halfhearted and lukewarm (Rev. 3:16) in their service for the Lord, or to have such zeal in doing a work that they fail to wait for God to give direction. Both of these weaknesses can hinder the work of Christ. It is of utmost importance that we pray for the Spirit of God to direct us, as well as: Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, whither thou goest (Eccl. 9:10).

Thought for Today:

O let me not wander from Thy Commandments. . . . Give me understanding, and I shall keep Thy Law; yea, I shall observe it with my whole heart (Ps. 119:10,34).
Christ Portrayed:

By Jehoiada, who protected Joash and, in holy judgment, had Athaliah slain (II Kin. 11:4-16). Christ keeps us safe to fulfill His will and will return to judge all who obey not the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ (II Thess. 1:.
Word Studies:

11:7 two parts =b> two companies; 11:8 compass =b> surround; 12:5 breaches =b> damaged places; 12:11 laid it out =b> paid it to them; 13:6 the grove =b> place to worship the goddess Asherah (Ashtoreth).
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Mr.& Mrs. Casmir A. Zuranksi • Staff: Dan Murton • Government Official: Rep. Charles Gonzalez (TX) • Country: Hungary (10.1 million) in east-central Europe • Major language: Hungarian • New freedom has opened the door to evangelism and Bible distribution • 61.7% Roman Catholic; 24.4% Protestant; 12.5% non-Religious/Other; .8% Jewish; .3% Orthodox; .2% Marginal; .1% Muslim • Prayer Suggestion: Pray without ceasing (II Tim. 1:3).
Optional Reading: Romans 8

Memory Verse for the Week: John 1:3

[Judy Harder]

Read II Kings 14 -- 15

Highlights:

Compare the kings of Israel and Judah. Some of the kings of Judah did . . . that which was right in the sight of the Lord (II Kin. 14:3), but none of the kings of Israel did. Some not only disobeyed the Word of God, but promoted idol worship.
King Jeroboam II (son of Jehoash) was very successful in all his battles and brought material prosperity to the nation. He restored the coast of Israel from the entering of Hamath unto the sea of the plain, according to the Word of the Lord God of Israel, which He spake by the hand of His servant Jonah, the son of Amittai, the prophet. . . . For the Lord saw the affliction of Israel, that it was very bitter. . . . And the Lord . . . saved them by the hand of Jeroboam the son of Joash (II Kin. 14:25-27).

But this recognition did not lead Jeroboam to worship God. Instead, he did that which was evil in the sight of the Lord: he departed not from all the sins of Jeroboam the son of Nebat, who made Israel to sin (14:24). Immorality and idolatry flourished during the reign of Jeroboam II.

Amos, Hosea, Joel, and Jonah all prophesied during his reign. However, none were successful in turning him toward God. Finally, God commanded Amos to go to Bethel and prophesy the destruction of the kingdom (Amos 7:9).

The Israelites seemed to believe that because they prospered materially, God approved of their idol worship. More and more, they placed their confidence in Baal rather than the One True God.

Often, the Christian's greatest tests of loyalty and humility before God come during times of material blessing. While we are enjoying prosperity, we are often less concerned about prayerfully seeking the Lord's guidance and will for our lives.

After Jeroboam's death, anarchy prevailed and Israel rapidly degenerated. Jeroboam was succeeded by his son Zachariah (II Kin. 14:29) who reigned only six months (15:.This was the fourth and last generation of the house of Jehu (15:12).

About 30 years after Jeroboam's death, the words of the prophets were fulfilled. The Northern Kingdom was destroyed and its people taken captive by the Assyrians (17:1-18).

Surely the goodness of God should lead us, in gratitude, to do the will of Jesus Christ our Lord. He (the Father) hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the Kingdom of His dear Son (Col. 1:13).

Thought for Today:

The Angel of the Lord encampeth round about them that fear him, and delivereth them (Ps. 34:7).
Christ Revealed:

When the Lord struck King Azariah with leprosy and thrust him out from being king (II Kin. 15:5-7). This foreshadows the time when Christ shall reign upon the earth and all who ignore or refuse His merciful gift of salvation shall be cast into the lake of fire (Rev. 20:15).
Word Studies:

14:10 lifted thee up =b> made you proud; 14:12 put to the worse =b> defeated; 14:25 sea of the plain =b> the Dead Sea; 15:5 a several house =b> a separated house; 15:20 exacted =b> assessed, taxed; 15:25 in his room =b> in his stead, place.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by A Family That Loves Jesus • Staff: Barbara Bivens • Government Official: Sen. Richard Shelby (AL) • Country: Iceland (272,000) at the northern end of the Atlantic • Major language: Icelandic • Religious freedom • 94% Protestant; 6% Roman Catholic • Prayer Suggestion: Intercede in prayer for those who forsake or disappoint you (II Tim. 4:16).
Optional Reading: Romans 9

Memory Verse for the Week: John 1:3

[Judy Harder]

Read II Kings 16 -- 17

Highlights:

Both Israel and Judah under evil control. Ahaz reigns in Judah, defiles the Temple and gives silver and gold found in the House of the Lord to the king of Assyria; Hoshea reigns in Israel until the fall of the Northern Kingdom; captivity and deportations of Israel by the king of Assyria.
The defeat of the ten tribes first involved the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half tribe of Manasseh on the east side of Jordan, where they chose to settle just outside the promised land. As should be expected, the Assyrians conquered them first. Today's reading is very important because it explains why their fall was inevitable. They were among the more powerful tribes, but, rather than enter the promised land that God had chosen for them, they chose what was best for their cattle. When they rejected the one true place of worship, they were soon unfaithful to their covenant with the One True God, and accepted the gods and conduct of the Canaanites.

Hoshea, the last king of the Northern Kingdom, paid tribute (money in exchange for peace and protection) to the king of Assyria. While pretending loyalty to him, he made a secret agreement with the king of Egypt, hoping to receive help from them and freedom from Assyrian control.

When the king of Assyria learned about Hoshea's agreement, Egypt made no attempt to help Hoshea. In the ninth year of Hoshea, the king of Assyria took (defeated) Samaria and carried Israel away. . . . the Lord was very angry with Israel, and removed them out His sight: there was none left but the tribe of Judah only (II Kin. 17:6,18).

The real reason for Hoshea's defeat was : They left all the Commandments of the Lord their God. . . . For the children of Israel walked in all the sins of Jeroboam (17:16-22). What a warning against unfaithfulness to God!

Some today are making the same mistake. They attend church and call themselves Christians, but Jesus said: This people draweth nigh unto Me with their mouth, and honoreth Me with their lips; but their heart is far from Me (Matt. 15:.

The Israelites disregarded the Word of God and suffered the consequences. This is a reminder that whoever or whatever receives our loyalty becomes our idol, be it a person, purpose, or possession. Jesus warned: Strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it (Matt. 7:14).

Thought for Today:

What shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul (Mark 8:36)?
Christ Revealed:

Through the original Brasen (brass) Altar made by Solomon (II Kin. 16:14; II Chr. 4:1). The Brasen Altar is a type of the cross on which Christ, our whole burnt offering, offered Himself to God (Heb. 9:14). Unlike the necessary daily sacrifices offered by the priests on the Brasen Altar, this He did once (once for all), on the cross, when He offered up Himself (7:27).
Word Studies:

16:11 against King Ahaz =before King Ahaz arrived; 16:13 meat offering =meal or grain offering or unleavened bread, oil, and a portion of incense (see Lev. 2:1); 16:18 entry without, turned he from =he removed the covered walkway for the king of Assyria.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Mr. & Mrs. Willet Adams, Sr. • Government Officials: Rep. Blaine Luetkemeyer (MO) and Rep. Candice Miller (MI) • Country: India (986 million) in southern Asia • Major languages: Hindi and English • Religious freedom, but increasing harassment and persecution of Christians by religious radicals • 78% Hindu; 12% Muslim (mostly Sunni); 3% Christian; 2.5% Indigenous; 2% Sikh; .9% Buddhist; .5% Jain; .3% Parsi; .2% Baha'i; .1% Jewish; .5% non-Religious • Prayer Suggestion: Pray for your Christian friends (Phil. 1:4).
Optional Reading: Romans 10

Memory Verse for the Week: John 1:3

[Judy Harder]

Read II Kings 18 -- 20

Highlights:

Revival comes with the new king of Judah (II Kin. 18:5-7)! Hezekiah's life and death is all here. Discover the reason for the Lord's favor in his life (18:5-6). You will want to avoid his foolish error (19:3).
The prophet Isaiah went to King Hezekiah who was sick unto death. . . . and said unto him, Thus saith the Lord, Set thine house in order; for thou shalt die. . . . Then he (King Hezekiah) turned his face to the wall, and prayed . . . I beseech Thee, O Lord, remember now how I have walked before Thee in Truth. . . . the Word of the Lord came to him (Isaiah) . . . tell Hezekiah. . . . I will add unto thy days fifteen years (20:1-6; comp. 19:15).

Hezekiah had reigned nearly 15 years and had no son at this time to continue his posterity.

Throughout the Gospels it becomes obvious that there's not a cry nor a tear, a sickness or death over which the compassionate heart of Christ is not touched. Did God announce Hezekiah's death in order to bless him as well as the nation?

Every situation of life is depicted for us in the Bible to instruct us about gaining the most out of our brief life. As we read through the Bible we gain insight on how to understand our circumstances.

The ambassadors from Babylon came with a present to congratulate Hezekiah for his recovery. It's disappointing that he gave no glory to God who had healed him in answer to his prayers. He proudly impressed the ambassadors with his exceeding much riches (II Chr. 32:27) of silver, gold, precious stones, and jewels. By exposing his treasures he was encouraging the Babylonians to covet his wealth (32:28; II Kin. 20:17). We need to ask ourselves: "What spiritual good did his boasting to the enemies of God accomplish?"

Hezekiah's additional 15 years also provided him with his son who became an evil king. As we consider the results of Hezekiah's prayer, how little we know of what is best for us. Would Hezekiah have been a greater blessing if he had prayed as our Master prayed: Not My will, but Thine, be done (Luke 22:42)?

When we know that a person will not recover from his illness, is it kind to offer hope of a quick recovery when there is little hope? Giving false hope can deprive him of the motivation to turn his face to the wall and earnestly pray for God to forgive their sins, and to receive Christ as Savior and Lord.

Be . . . ready . . . for the Son of Man cometh at an hour when ye think not (Luke 12:40).

Thought for Today:

This people draweth nigh unto Me with their mouth, and honoureth Me with their lips; but their heart is far from Me (Matt. 15:.
Christ Portrayed:

By Hezekiah, who was faithful in leading the Kingdom of Judah back to God and His Word (II Kin. 19) — a foreshadowing of Jesus' words to the Pharisees in His attempt to awaken them to their need to see themselves as sinners and recognize Him as their Savior (Mark 2:17).
Word Studies:

18:6 clave =b> clung, was devoted to; 18:17 Tartan =b> the title of Assyria's general, commander in chief; Rabsaris =b> the chief financial official; Rabshakeh =b> the chief officer, or possibly chief cupbearer; 18:31 by a present =b> by paying tribute; 19:3 bring forth =b> give birth; 19:7 blast =b> spirit of bad fortune; 20:3 sore =b> bitterly and loud.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Staff: Beth Carlton • Government Official: Rep. Vernon Buchanan (FL) • Country: Indonesia (211.8 million) five large and 13,662 lesser islands in Southeast Asia • Major languages: Bahasa Indonesian (modified form of Malay) and English • Growing pressure from Muslim leaders to limit advances of Christianity by not renewing many of the missionaries' permits to stay in the country • 83% Muslim; 9% Protestant; 4% Catholic; 2% Hindu; 1% Buddhist; 1% Other • Prayer Suggestion: Thank God for the spiritual rest that is in Him (Heb. 4:9-10).
Optional Reading: Romans 11

Memory Verse for the Week: John 1:3

[Judy Harder]

Read II Kings 21 -- 23:20

Highlights:

The Book of the Law discovered; true worship restored; idolatry destroyed by Hezekiah's great-grandson, who was one of the most godly of all the kings. Don't miss his covenant with the Lord (II Kin. 23:3).
Though little is known of Huldah the prophetess, she had great influence in Jerusalem. The high priest and the king recognized her prophetic gift and sought her spiritual guidance. Only two other prophetesses are mentioned in the long history of the Old Testament — Miriam (Ex. 15:20) sang spiritual songs and Deborah (Judg. 4:4) aroused the enthusiasm of the people to win a war. But neither prophesied like Huldah: Thus saith the Lord (II Kin. 22:15-16,18-19). God is no respecter of persons or sex in distributiing His spiritual gifts to all who seek . . . first the Kingdom of God (Matt. 6:33).

Unlike religions which disregard the equality of women, the Bible reveals: As many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek . . . bond or free . . . male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus (Gal. 3:27-28). This is evidenced by Huldah, the prophetess during the days when the Word of God was discovered in the Temple, as well as Philip the evangelist's four daughters, who also prophesied (Acts 21:8-9). God has revealed: Your daughters shall prophesy (2:17; Joel 2:28).

When Josiah heard the Lord's words of impending judgment spoken by Huldah, he rent his clothes and could not rest until the House of God had been restored (II Kin. 22:3-6,19,23:4-7). The command was the king's, the oversight was the high priest's, the execution was the workmen's. When the laborers are faithful in doing their work, the high priest in directing it spiritually, and the king in upholding The Commandments of God, a nation cannot fail to receive the blessings of God (22:11-13). Huldah the prophetess. . . . said . . . to the king of Judah . . . Because . . . thou hast humbled thyself before the Lord . . . I also have heard thee, saith the Lord (II Kin. 22:14-19).

The discovery of the Word of God evidenced the indestructibility of the only inspired revelation of God. In this instance, Huldah acknowledged the authority of the Scriptures which were found.

Pity the Christian who fails to pray for opportunities to serve the Lord.

He gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the Body of Christ (Eph 4:11-12).

Thought for Today:

He (every Christian) that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches (Rev. 3:6).
Christ Portrayed:

By the prophets (II Kin. 21:10). God, who . . . spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, Hath in these last days spoken unto us by His Son (Heb. 1:1-2).
Word Studies:

21:6 observed times, and used enchantments, and dealt with familiar spirits =b> practiced witchcraft, fortune-telling, devil worship, black magic; 21:12 ears shall tingle =b> will be astonished with horror; 23:17 title =b> monument, grave marker.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Country: Iran (66.2 million) in southwestern Asia • Major languages: Farsi and Turki • Hostile to all Christian activity • 87% Shi'a; 12% Sunni; .5% Baha'i; .4% Christian; .03% Jewish; .04% Parsi (Zoroastrian); .03% Other • Prayer Suggestion: Praise God for the power of His Word (Heb. 4:12).
Optional Reading: Romans 12

Memory Verse for the Week: John 1:4

[Judy Harder]

Read II Kings 23:21 -- 25

Highlights:

Note the spiritual insight of King Josiah as he reinstates the Passover. The four final kings fail to serve the Lord, the Kingdom of Judah is taken captive, and the Temple is destroyed by the king of Babylon. Read with horror about what happened to the once-mighty Jerusalem.
Just twenty-three years after the death of Josiah, the Southern Kingdom of Judah was defeated and Jerusalem and the Temple were destroyed. The Lord turned not from the fierceness of His great wrath . . . against Judah, because of all the provocations that Manasseh had provoked Him withal. And the Lord said, I will remove Judah also out of My sight, as I have removed Israel, and will cast off this city Jerusalem which I have chosen, and the House of which I said, My name shall be there (II Kin. 23:26-27). Under the reigns of its last four kings, who were mere puppets of Egypt and then Babylon, it was trodden down by successive conquests and the pitiful deportations into heathen lands. Jerusalem was invincible while its people obeyed the Word of God. But eventually it became powerless because of sin. As a result of unfaithfulness and continued disobedience to the Word of God by their national immorality and violence, its people were reduced to suffering and loss of everything.

Nebuchadnezzar, with an immense army, beseiged Jerusalem until it was reduced to starvation. King Zedekiah, with his wives, children, and guards, fled through an opening that was made in the wall (II Kin. 25:4; Ezek. 12:12) only to be captured near Jericho. Zedekiah watched the horrifying death of his family; then his own eyes were gouged out and he was forced to walk more than 800 miles in chains to Babylon (II Kin. 25:7). The agonizing ordeal fulfilled two prophecies that had appeared contradictory: Zedekiah would be taken to Babylon, but would not see it (Jer. 32:5; 34:3; Ezek. 12:13; 17:16-17). How pathetic was the fall of the once God-blessed Kingdom of Judah.

We need to see the handwriting on the wall. The world recognizes the United States as worshipers of the One True God. But our sins and rebellion against the Commandments of God reveal our disloyal hearts.

America's sins remind us of Judah before its destruction. Let now the astrologers, the stargazers (and false gods) . . . save thee from these things that shall come upon thee. Behold, they shall be as stubble; the fire shall burn them (Is. 47:13-14).

Thought for Today:

He that spareth his rod hateth his son: but he that loveth him chasteneth him betimes (Prov. 13:24).
Christ Revealed:

Through the Passover (II Kin. 23:21-23), which, as a type, foreshadowed Jesus Christ, our Redeemer and Passover Lamb, who delivers us from spiritual death through His sacrificial death. I am He that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death (Rev. 1:18).
Word Studies:

25:12 husbandmen =b> farmers; 25:16 without weight =b> beyond measure; 25:27 lift up the head =b> release from prison.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Anna Mae & John Correll • Staff: Jennifer Cunningham • Government Official: Rep. Dean Heller (NV) • Country: Iraq (22 million) in southern Asia • Major languages: Arabic and Kurdish • Fierce harassment of non-Muslims • 96% Muslim; 3% Christian • Prayer Suggestion: Go to God in prayer with boldness and seek His grace and mercy (Heb. 4:16).
Optional Reading: Romans 13

Memory Verse for the Week: John 1:4

 

[Judy Harder]

Read I Chronicles 1 -- 2

Highlights:

I Chronicles opens with the longest genealogical record in the Bible and covers about 4000 years before Christ (chap. 1 — 9). Its second chapter is devoted to the descendants of Judah because the promised Messiah would descend from this tribe (Gen. 49:8-12). The record begins with Adam, the first man created by God (I Chr. 1:1); continues to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob; then Judah; and on to David; then to Nathan, Solomon's brother (II Sam. 5:14; I Chr. 3:5; 14:4; Luke 3:31). The line of Solomon was eliminated (Jer. 22:22-30). Abraham and David were ancestors of both Joseph and Mary. The royal Davidic lineage of Jesus as the Messiah is traced to Joseph in Matthew and the actual human bloodline is traced through Mary in Luke.
These two chapters' spiritual genealogy are pages of names from Adam . . . Noah. . . . Abraham. . . . Isaac . . . Israel. . . . Judah. . . . David. . . . Jesus, who is called Christ (I Chr. 1 — 2; Matt. 1:16) in keeping with all prophecy concerning Jesus who died for our sins.

The Chronicles cover the same history as II Samuel and the two Books of the Kings. Their primary purpose is to emphasize the importance of worship and a right relationship of the believer with the One True God the Father, Jesus the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Therefore, emphasis is made of the importance of the Law and Temple restorations which are associated with worship and a right relationship with God.

The Chronicles focus on Judah and Temple worship and the prophetic promises of the Messiah centered on them. God decided who would be included in the genealogy of Christ. He is personally involved in every Christian's life, desiring to guide us through every detail. God is saying: Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths (Prov. 3:5-6).

Although we cannot understand many of the things He brings into our lives, by faith we can be sure that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to His purpose (Rom. 8:28).

Things that happen to believers are not "accidents;" they are either allowed or sent by our Father, the Master Engineer. He worketh all things after the counsel of His own will (Eph. 1:11). Therefore, recognize that He is allowing the circumstances of your life today, now — this very moment.

That we should be to the praise of his glory, who first trusted in Christ (Eph. 1:12).

Thought for Today:

Whoso keepeth His Word, in him verily is the love of God perfected: hereby know we that we are in Him (I John 2:5).
Christ Portrayed:

By the first Adam (I Chr. 1:1). Christ is the last Adam. We have eternal life because the last Adam was made a quickening (life-giving) Spirit (I Cor. 15:45,47).
Word Studies:

1:6 sons of =b> descendants of; 1:10 begat =b> became the father of; 2:21 threescore =b> sixty.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Nesa Anderson • Staff: Clarence Rathbone • Country: Ireland (3.7 million) off the coast of western Europe • Major languages: English and Irish (Gaelic) • Religious freedom • 92% Catholic; 3.7% Anglican; 1% Other Protestant; .2% Muslim; .1% Jewish; 2% Other; 1% None • Prayer Suggestion: Ask the Lord for ways to share His love with others (Heb. 6:10).
Optional Reading: Romans 14

Memory Verse for the Week: John 1:4