Bible Pathways

[Judy Harder]

May 13
Read I Chronicles 6 -- 7

Highlights In Today's Reading:

Levi's descendants include Moses, Miriam, and the priestly line of Aaron. Note the various tasks they performed in the Temple. Note, also, how God provided for their care and upkeep. Genealogies prove their ancestors are priests, or they couldn't be a priest (Ezra 2:59-63).
The long and seemingly uninteresting genealogy in these chapters reveals that God does not look on mankind as just a crowd of human beings who populate the earth. The names of the priests and Levites were documented in detail. The name of every individual, along with the family and tribe he belonged to, was carefully registered. And each person had a personal responsibility. We see a striking difference in the spiritual character of the men mentioned in these chapters. Some were devoted to their God-given responsibilities while others, at first, seem to be blessed with remarkable spiritual beginnings; but, when tested, betrayed and forfeited their heaven-born opportunities.

Of first consideration in this listing was the high priest, who was to come from the family of Aaron (I Chr. 6:3; Num. 3:10). Aaron, Eleazar, and Ithamar were devoted to their calling as priests, according to all that Moses the servant of God had commanded (I Chr. 6:49); but two of Aaron's sons, Nadab and Abihu, were struck dead when they ignored the commandments of God (Lev. 10:1-2). Samuel was a godly judge, but the sons of Samuel; the firstborn Vashni, and Abiah (I Chr. 6:28) were evil. For years, Abiathar was a dedicated high priest, but later he became a traitor to David (I Kin. 1:5-7; 2:26-27).

Just as every Israelite returning from the Babylonian captivity was individually and carefully registered to ensure his participation in worship at the Temple (Ezra 2:2-63), those whose names were not included in the genealogy of I Chronicles, in the priestly or Levitical lines, could not minister in the Temple. So this long list of names became exceedingly important as the Israelites searched the records for their own names. And this is still true today. Our Lord is now drawing to Himself a second chosen generation, a royal priesthood (I Pet. 2:9). Today's Bible reading contains devout saints as well as sinful, undisciplined men.

We should all rejoice that God is just as concerned with each one of us today as He was with the Israelites. Manasseh, the ungodly son of godly King Hezekiah, was taken prisoner by the Babylonians, but when he repented, he was restored to his throne, God is still merciful and longsuffering to everyone today who repents and then seeks to redeem the time (see Eph. 5:16). He calleth His own sheep by name (John 10:3). In fact, God is so concerned with us personally that even the hairs of our heads are numbered (Matt. 10:30). Our names must be written in the Lamb's Book of Life to ensure our citizenship in heaven (Rev. 21:27).

The Apostle John wrote: I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the Book of Life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works (Rev. 20:12).

Thought for Today:

We no longer have to be born in a certain earthy family in order to be used by God, but we do have to be born into the family of God (John 1:12-13; 3:3-7).
Christ Revealed:

By the cities of . . . refuge (I Chr. 6:57, also 67,71-72,78,80). For a person to have protection from the avenger of blood, he had to flee to a city of refuge. God provided His only begotten Son Jesus Christ to be our Refuge from His judgment against our sin. (Compare John 3:14-18; 10:24-30; Gal. 2:16; 3:1-14; Heb. 10:1-18; I John 2:2; Rev. 1:5.) When, by faith, in obedience to His Word, we come to Christ, He becomes our Refuge (Heb. 6:18-20).
Word Studies:

6:32 waited on =b> performed service in; 6:66 residue =b> balance; 6:74 suburbs =b> pasturelands; 7:23 it went evil with =b> tragedy had happened to his family; 7:24 nether =b> lower.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Arabic International Shortwave Broadcasts sponsored by Kelly Witt • International Shortwave Broadcasts sponsored by Linda S. Borrelli • Radio Sri Lanka Shortwave Broadcasts in memory of Dr. Lewis Hylbert, late missionary to China • Staff: Karen Hawkins • Country: Malawi (10 million) in southeastern Africa • Major languages: English and Chichewa • Religious freedom • 34% Protestant; 23% Roman Catholic; 16% Muslim; 16% animist; 4% cults • Prayer Suggestion: Continue to watch and pray with thanksgiving (Col. 4:2).
Optional Reading: Romans 16

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 6:20

[Judy Harder]

May 14
Read I Chronicles 8 -- 10

Highlights In Today's Reading:

Benjamin's descendants, as recorded in chapter 8, include the lineage of King Saul. The exiles returning from captivity are listed in chapter 9. There is no "small" task in the House of God. Each necessary job is clearly outlined. Sadly, it takes only two verses to describe the life and death of Saul and his sons (10:13-14).
The people of God were carried away to Babylon for their transgression (9:1) -- their neglect of keeping the Word of God. Captive, downtrodden, and degraded, they were forced into a strange land. After the Israelites' 70-year captivity, which had been foretold by Jeremiah (Jer. 25:11-12), King Cyrus offered freedom to their descendants to return to Jerusalem to rebuild the Temple.

However, by this time most of them had been born in Babylon and had never seen Jerusalem. In Babylon they were no longer suppressed and were free to pursue financial opportunities. Added to that, the dangerous journey of 600-900 miles would take at least 4 months (Ezra 7:8-0) and, at the end of the long journey, they faced an uncertain means of survival. Once back in Jerusalem, there would be much hard, physical labor rebuilding the Temple out of the rubble left from the Babylonian destruction.

Because of this, when the Medo-Persians set the Israelites free, only a few were willing to leave Persia, the former Babylon, and fulfill the will of God. However, all who did respond to the call became very able men for the work of the service of the House of God (I Chr. 9:13). Their loyalty to their Heavenly King made them willing to serve wherever needed.

In the ministry of the Lord nothing is unimportant to God: There are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. . . . dividing to every man severally as He will (I Cor. 12:4,11). Everyone on earth has at least one talent (Matt. 25:24-28) that could be used to draw others to Christ. Any thing we do for the Lord is a sacred trust from God and is important in His master plan. Although some among us are given higher positions than others, the Lord does not expect the person who is given one talent to fulfill the responsibility of the person who has been given five talents. By the same token, the person who is given five is expected to be faithful with all five. For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required (Luke 12:48). Sad to say, some have chosen to use their abilities in secular opportunities to become famous and wealthy rather than in being a faithful Christian with the privilege of opportunities to influence others to become followers of Christ. Those who bury their opportunities in worldly ambitions will hear on Judgment Day: Thou wicked and slothful servant (Matt. 25:26).

All Christians are to pray for those who minister the Word of God (II Thess. 3:1-2) and to tithe for their support (Matt. 23:23; I Cor. 9:3-14). Our Lord Jesus Christ reminded us that the labourers are few (Matt. 9:37) and made a very specific prayer request: Pray . . . the Lord of the harvest, that He will send forth labourers into His harvest (Matt. 9:38).

Thought for Today:

We must guard against becoming so comfortable in our worldly surroundings that we forget what the Word of God has taught us (I John 2:16).
Christ Revealed:

By Jerusalem, which means "foundation of peace" (I Chr. 9:3). Christ is the only Foundation of Peace upon which man can stand before God. Jesus said: My peace I give unto you (John 14:27; II Cor. 5:18; Eph. 2:14).
Word Studies:

8:31 Zacher =b> Zechariah (not the prophet); 9:21 porter =b> gatekeeper of the entrance way; 9:22 set office =b> trustworthy position; 9:23 by wards =b> as guards; 9:28 bring them in and out by tale =b> count them when they bring them in and take them out; 10:2 followed hard after =b> closely pursued and overtook; 10:3 went sore =b> was fierce; 10:4 uncircumcised =b> those without a covenant relationship with God.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Arabic, English, & Spanish International Shortwave Broadcasts sponsored by Mr. & Mrs. Jack Schatz, Jr. • Radio Sri Lanka Shortwave Broadcasts sponsored by Linda Plett • Staff: Clarence Rathbone • Government Officials: Sen. Byron Dorgan (ND), Rep. Alan Mollohan (WV), Rep. Erik Paulsen (MN), and Rep. Jackie Speier (CA) • Country: Malaysia (22.7 million) in Southeast Asia • Major languages: Malay and English • All Christian witness to Muslims is illegal • 58% Muslim; 23% Buddhist/Taoist/Chinese; 8% Christian; 6% Hindu; 5% Sikh/Animist/Other • Prayer Suggestion: Ask the Lord to give you boldness and opportunities to share the Gospel with others (Col. 4:3-4).
Optional Reading: I Corinthians 1

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 6:20

[Judy Harder]

 
May 15
Read I Chronicles 11 -- 13

Highlights In Today's Reading:

Love for their master is the foundation of the people's relationship with David, a type of Christ, and for David's relationship with God. Through their examples we find lessons on loyalty, worship, and sacrifice. Note the oneness of the people (12:38). Bringing back the Ark of God (13:1-4). The wrong way (13:5-13)! So it remains with Obed-edom. Look at what God does for him (13:14).
David's anointing as king of Israel took place when he was but a teenager. After perhaps 10-12 years in exile, he appears to have lost faith in the fulfillment of that anointing (I Sam. 27:1). Consider a few of David's problems. How could God fulfill the prophet's promise that David would be king of Israel when it appeared that Saul would kill him? Saul also was far from being an old man and had rightfully been anointed king. Furthermore, Jonathan, David's best friend, appeared to be rightful heir to his father's throne.

Even after the untimely death of Saul, loyalists in Israel chose his son Ish-bosheth to be their king (II Sam. 2 -- 4). But Ish-bosheth (Esh-baal in I Chron. 8:33; 9:39) reigned only two years (II Sam. 2:10) and was murdered. Following this, the leaders of all Israel gathered themselves to David unto Hebron, saying, Behold, we are thy bone and thy flesh. And moreover in time past . . . the Lord thy God said unto thee, Thou shalt feed My people Israel, and thou shalt be ruler over My people Israel. . . . and David made a covenant with them . . . before the Lord; and they anointed David king over Israel, according to the Word of the Lord by Samuel (I Chr. 11:1-3).

In many respects David's problems parallel situations that each of us faces today. Just as surely as the Lord gives us a desire to accomplish something for His honor, obstacles will appear. It may be family problems that need to be resolved or financial situations that seem hopeless. Last but not least, Satan reminds us of our past failures and inabilities. We may think that someone else is more qualified. Whatever the case, overcoming these difficulties may seem as impossible to us as becoming king of Israel appeared to David. And, sorry to say, for some, not many arguments are needed to become discouraged and feel there is no use in trying. Once we recognize the authority of Christ over our lives, we will patiently look to Him for direction (Prov. 3:5-6).

The old saying is true, winners never quit and quitters never win. Winners fight the good fight of faith (I Tim. 6:12), put on the whole armour of God. . . . take . . . the Sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God: Praying always . . . with all perseverance (keep on praying earnestly) (Eph. 6:11,17-18).

Thought for Today:

God can take a person with a doubtful past and use them to accomplish great things for His glory. What a Miracle Worker He is!
Christ Portrayed:

By David, the anointed king (I Chr. 11:3). Christ is the Anointed One who will soon reign forever as KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS (Rev. 19:16).
Word Studies:

11:16 hold =b> stronghold; 12:1 close =b> restricted in his movements; in hiding; 12:17 knit =b> joined, united; 12:19 fell . . . to David =b> shifted allegience to David.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for English International Shortwave Broadcasts in Africa, Europe, and the Middle East sponsored by Rick Lokites • International Shortwave Broadcasts sponsored by Mr. & Mrs. Jerry Berry • Radio Sri Lanka Shortwave Broadcasts sponsored by Linda Plett • Staff: Bernice Rathbone • Government Official: Gov. Kathleen Sebelius (KS) • Country: Maldives (300,000) 400 miles southwest of Sri Lanka • Major languages: Divehi and English • Christian witnessing is banned • 99.9% Muslim; .1% Christian • Prayer Suggestion: Pray for more faithful Christian workers (I Thess. 1:2-3).
Optional Reading:I Corinthians 2

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 6:20

 

[Judy Harder]

May 16
Read I Chronicles 14 -- 16

Highlights In Today's Reading:

David seeks the will of God first (14:10,14). See the results of asking God and letting Him lead (14:17)! In complete compliance with God, David and all Israel brought up the Ark to Jerusalem (15:25-28). Join David in singing his song of praise (16:7-36).
These are some of the prominent virtues to be seen in the lives of Christians who truly desire to grow spiritually: Wherefore laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, and all evil speakings, As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the Word, that ye may grow thereby (I Pet. 2:1-2). Perhaps the foremost characteristics are found in today's Bible reading. David wrote: Give thanks unto the Lord, call upon His Name, make known His deeds among the people. Sing unto Him, sing psalms unto Him (I Chr. 16:8-9).

In Psalm 119, more than 150 attributes of the Word of God are proclaimed. Godly people are not concerned about being praised, but, in contrast, desire to praise the Lord. Silent praise is good, but simply not sufficient! The world needs to hear us praise the Lord. Nothing can honor Him more than open, vocal praise that comes from the heart of one who is truly devoted to Him. Talk ye of all His wondrous works. Glory ye in His Holy Name: let the heart of them rejoice that seek the Lord (I Chr. 16:9-10).

Seek the Lord and His strength, seek His face continually (16:11). Godly people also stand out as people of prayer. David, whom God called a man after His own heart (I Sam. 13:14; Acts 13:22) illustrates this virtue. David inquired of God. . . . shall I (I Chr. 14:10,14; I Sam. 23:2,4; 30:8; II Sam. 2:1; 5:19,23; 21:1). Godly people will also desire to be obedient to the Word of God. Jesus said: If ye love Me, keep My Commandments (John 14:15).

Remember His marvellous works that He hath done, His wonders, and the judgments of His mouth. . . . Be ye mindful always of His Covenant; the Word which He commanded to a thousand generations (I Chron. 16:12,15). Godly people will publicly acknowledge their submission to the authority of the Supreme King and express adoration and praise to their Lord as the Almighty Creator of all things.

David delivered an inspiring psalm for Asaph and his choir to sing which lifts our spirits as we worship our wonderful Lord: Rejoice . . . Declare His glory among . . . all nations. . . . For great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised . . . bring an offering, and come before Him: worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness. . . . The Lord reigneth (I Chr. 16:10,24-31).

Thought for Today:

Are we openly displaying the characteristics of the One True God, our Heavenly Father? Or do people by our actions wonder who He is?
Christ Revealed:

Through David's fame and exaltation (I Chr. 14:17). God highly exalted Christ, our Redeemer, and gave Him a Name which is above every name (Phil. 2:9-11).
Word Studies:

14:13 spread themselves abroad =made a raid, invaded.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Officials: Rep. John Conyers, Jr. (MI) and Rep. James Moran (VA) • Country: Mali (10 million) in West Africa • Major languages: French and Bambara • Religious freedom despite Muslim majority • 81% Muslim; 17% animism and spirit worship; 2% Christian • Prayer Suggestion: Pray to the Lord with earnestness night and day (I Thess. 3:10).
Optional Reading: I Corinthians 3

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 6:20

[Judy Harder]

May 17
Read I Chronicles 17 -- 20

Highlights In Today's Reading:

What's this? God says "no" to David (17:1-15)? But what will God do for David (17:25)? Is it a literal house? The people of God have many enemies to overcome. But David was never defeated in his many years of wars. Learn how the Lord victoriously brings him through many battles (chap. 18 -- 20) just as He will for anyone who faithfully lets God have first place in their lives.
When David compared the beauty of his own palace with the ancient Tabernacle tent where God dwelt, he felt ashamed. He believed that the true King's throne room ought to be the best. He wanted to build a Temple that would reflect his great esteem for God. So he said to Nathan: Lo, I dwell in an house of cedars, but the Ark of the Covenant of the Lord remaineth under curtains. Then Nathan said unto David, Do all that is in thine heart (17:1-2).However, that same night . . .the Word of God came to Nathan, saying, Go and tell David My servant, Thus saith the Lord, Thou shalt not build Me an house to dwell in (17:3-4). But David provided much of the material for its construction. God honored David's desire far beyond his greatest expectations, saying: The Lord will build thee an house. . . . I will stablish his throne for ever (17:10-14).

Who can comprehend the grandeur of this promise? Think of its fulfillment in Jesus Christ, the King of kings, who will soon rule the earth. In deep humility, David . . . sat before the Lord (17:16) to consider the contrast between his desire to build God a small earthly Temple where His presence would dwell compared to what the Heavenly King purposed to build for David that would last for eternity.

The attitude of David was not one of great joy over how important he had suddenly become, but a sense of profound unworthiness: Who am I, O Lord God, and what is mine house? (17:16). To see God for who He really is and then to rightfully understand who we really are is truly humbling. Oh, Lord, there is none like Thee, neither is there any God beside Thee (17:20).

Most of us find it easy to praise the Lord for answers to prayer and the good things that come our way, but we need to express the same praise when circumstances are disappointing. God is honored and should be praised when we face disappointments, for then we acknowledge that He, in His infinite wisdom, loves and cares for us and is in control of all the circumstances in our lives.

We know 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).

Thought for Today:

The closer we draw to God and the more important His Word becomes to us the more we realize our own unworthiness and His holiness.
Christ Portrayed:

By David, the shepherd-king (I Chr. 17:7; compare Matt. 1:1-2; Rom. 1:3), symbolic of Christ as the Good Shepherd (John 10:11) and King of saints (all believers) (Rev. 15:3).
Word Studies:

17:7 sheepcote =b> pasturelands; 18:4 houghed =b> crippled by cutting leg tendons; 19:4 hard by =b> close to; 19:6 odious =b> detestable, offensive.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Officials: Rep. George Miller (CA) and Sen. Ben Nelson (NE) • Country: Malta (388,000) about 60 miles south of Sicily • Major languages: Maltese and English • Religious freedom • 97% Christian; 1.7% non-Religious/other; 1% Muslim • Prayer Suggestion: Make everything you do a matter of prayer (I Thess. 5:17).
Optional Reading: I Corinthians 4

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 6:21

[Judy Harder]

May 18
Read I Chronicles 21 -- 23

Highlights In Today's Reading:

Even David, whom God called a man after Mine own heart (Acts 13:22; I Sam. 13:14), is deceived by Satan and judged (I Chr. 21:1-18). Apply the godly principle in 21:24 to your life! The site of the Temple chosen (22:1). God reveals: Who, what, when, why, and how (22:6-19)! Solomon crowned king (23:1).
Solomon was about 20 years of age when he was anointed king. Since young people do not have the insight and years of experience of their elders, they often underestimate the things that are of greatest importance. Because of this, David strongly urged Solomon to keep the Law of the Lord thy God. Then shalt thou prosper . . . (22:12-16). Now set your heart and your soul to seek the Lord your God; arise therefore, and build ye the sanctuary of the Lord God, to bring the Ark of the Covenant of the Lord, and the holy vessels of God, into the House that is to be built to the Name of the Lord (22:19).

David's vast accumulation of materials and plans for building the Temple were now in the possession of Solomon (22:14-15). It was of utmost importance for Solomon to set your heart . . . to seek the Lord. . . . arise . . . (be doing) build . . . the sanctuary. This should have been an incentive for him to make building the Temple his first priority. But Solomon put personal interests first and did not begin building the Temple until the fourth year of his reign (I Kin. 6:1). Instead, he began to amass chariots and horses (II Chr. 1:16-17), and then built them stalls (I Kin. 4:26). This was in violation of the command of God (Deut 17:16-17; I Kin. 10:26 -- 11:4).

Just as David urged Solomon to set his mind and heart to seek the Lord, Christ directs every believer to seek . . . first the Kingdom of God, and His righteousness (Matt. 6:33). We can be sure the Lord will provide the things necessary for our physical well-being when we seek . . . first the Kingdom of God. The building of the Temple illustrates the external things which we may accomplish in the Lord's service. But the other half of this verse is even more important -- and His righteousness. As we read in Romans 8:13, if ye through the Spirit do mortify (reject) the deeds of the body, ye shall live. The inner self should become everything the Lord would have us to be without compromise. This verse parallels the example of David, who was not satisfied with just providing Solomon with all the materials needed for the completion of the Temple. Yes, they were needed; but, the best of materials and the finest skilled workers would all be meaningless without surrender to the Lord.

True faith is demonstrated by our seeking first the Kingdom of God and fully depending upon Him to answer prayer while doing all we can to bring it to pass. We are to ask (keep on asking) . . . seek . . . knock (Matt. 7:7-8). Faith and works always go together. This means we are to do all that we can to fulfill His will with the same spirit of James who wrote: Faith without works is dead (James 2:20).

Thought for Today:

Our physical success does not impress God. It is the mount of love we have for Him and our desire to obey Him that counts.
Christ Revealed:

Through the altar David built to sacrifice unto the Lord so that Israel might be restored to a right relationship with God (I Chr. 21:18,26). Only through Christ can we be restored to a right relationship with God. We are justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus (Rom. 3:24).
Word Studies:

21:13 a great strait =b> deep distress; 21:15 repented Him of the evil =b> felt compassion due to man's repentance and intercession; 22:3 without weight =b> beyond calculation; 23:1 old and full of days =b> reached old age; 23:6 courses =b> divisions or groups; 23:11 in one reckoning =b> counted together; 23:24 by their polls =b> individually, by census, head counts.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Arabic International Shortwave Broadcasts in honor of Pastor Tony Foglio • Radio Sri Lanka Shortwave Broadcasts sponsored by Pat Boehme • Government Officials: Rep. George Miller (CA) and Sen. Ben Nelson (NE) • Country: Malta (388,000) about 60 miles south of Sicily • Major languages: Maltese and English • Religious freedom • 97% Christian; 1.7% non-Religious/other; 1% Muslim • Prayer Suggestion: Make everything you do a matter of prayer (I Thess. 5:17).
Optional Reading: I Corinthians 5

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 6:21

[Judy Harder]

May 19
Read I Chronicles 24 -- 26

Highlights In Today's Reading:

The duties of the priests, musicians, and gatekeepers are listed in these three chapters. Each group is named for its family leader. Note how duties are divided. Check out the work of these musicians (25:1). Some of these wrote psalms we all love!
Work assignments were given to priests, singers, porters (gatekeepers), treasurers, and others who were entrusted with responsibilities necessary for worship in the Temple.

The gatekeepers were called able men for . . . the service (26:. They were the Korahites and the Merarites (26:19), all of whom were valiant men of integrity and courage who would not neglect their duties. They were trusted to guard the entrance to keep unqualified persons from entering the Temple and defiling it.

Every position was important for promoting worship in the Temple as ordered by the Lord. The responsibilities of all the varied workers teach us that every opportunity to serve the Lord is a sacred responsibility. This is illustrated by Obed-edom who was just an ordinary gatekeeper of the Temple, but God blessed him (15:18; 26:4-5). Earlier, King David planned to bring the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem because it contained the original Books of Moses. Uzzah was struck dead for touching it. The Ark was then taken to the home of Obed-edom. It remained with him for three months (II Sam. 6:1-11; I Chr. 13:7-14). When Obed-edom received the Ark, he received not only the Word of God; but also the very presence of God (Ex. 25:22; I Sam. 4:4; II Sam. 6:2).

Just as the Ark brought the blessing of the Lord to Obed-edom, so He will bless all who read His Word and allow Him to rule their lives (John 1:12). When we pray as a family, we should thank our Heavenly Father for each of our children and cause them to understand their importance to the Lord.

Some people disregard the Creator's ownership rights to their lives by wasting their opportunities, talents, time, and even the Lord's tithe for their own pleasures. Pity the people who keep for themselves their time and possessions that God has given them — refusing to recognize that, during their short time on earth, they are only stewards of what belongs to God who created all things for His honor (Rev. 4:11). Christians recognize that each day is a trust from God for them to glorify Him. In contrast, the worldly-minded are challenged each day to gain more for themselves. We can multiply our blessings by giving, that others may gain eternal life.

He that is faithful (dependable) in that which is least is faithful also in much (the more important responsibilities) . . . if therefore ye have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon (possessions of the world), who will commit to your trust the true riches? (Luke 16:10-11).

Thought for Today:

The talents that God has entrusted to us have eternal value when used for the glory of God (I Cor. 10:31).
Christ Revealed:

Through the Temple treasures (I Chr. 26:20-28). Christ; In whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge (Col. 2:2-3). In Christ are treasures of wisdom, knowledge, and riches to supply all a believer needs (Phil. 4:19).
Word Studies:

24:2 executed =served in; 24:5 divided by lot =lots were cast to determine the will of God (Prov. 16:33); 24:19 orderings =schedules; 25:5 lift up the horn =sound the trumpet.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Radio Sri Lanka Shortwave Broadcasts sponsored by Pat Boehme • Staff: Benjamin Wallace • Government Official: Rep. Brad Miller (NC) • Country: Mauritius (1 million) 500 miles east of Madagascar • Major languages: English and Creole • Limited religious freedom • 50% Hindu; 27% Roman Catholic; 17% Muslim; 5% Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: Intercede in prayer for those in authority over you (I Tim. 2:1-2).
Optional Reading: I Corinthians 6

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 6:21

[Judy Harder]

May 20
Read I Chronicles 27 -- 29

Highlights In Today's Reading:

Check out the army. Divided into divisions; how many are in each? How many days do they serve each year? Pretty unique! As his final royal gesture, David calls all Israel's leaders and Solomon and gives full instructions from God on how to run the nation when he's gone. Then he gives God even more of his wealth for the Temple and the officials willingly give too! WOW!
In the last year of David's reign he assembled all the princes of the tribes, and the captains of the companies (28:1). Then he stood up and told the people how God had chosen Solomon to build His Temple. He told Solomon once again what his greatest concern was to be: Keep and seek (to be familiar with) . . . all the Commandments of the Lord. . . . serve Him with a perfect heart and with a willing mind: for the Lord searcheth all hearts, and understandeth all the imaginations of the thoughts . . . if thou forsake Him, He will cast thee off for ever (28:8-9).

After this, David offered one of the most inspiring prayers recorded in the Scripture — a prayer of thanksgiving, praise, and adoration, and his great love. He blessed the Lord before all the congregation: and David said . . . Thine, O Lord, is the greatness, and the power, and the glory, and the victory, and the majesty: for all that is in the heaven and in the earth is Thine; Thine is the Kingdom, O Lord, and Thou art exalted as Head above all. Both riches and honour come of Thee, and Thou reignest over all; and in Thine hand is power and might; and in Thine hand it is to make great, and to give strength unto all (29:10-12). It was the highlight of the day and a glorious acknowledgment of the blessings of God. It is implied that the people's hearts were full as all the congregation blessed the Lord God of their fathers, and bowed down their heads, and worshipped the Lord (29:20).

This illustrates the proper attitude for prayer. When we draw near to God (Ps. 73:28; Heb. 10:22; James 4: in prayer, it should not simply be to ask Him to forgive us of our sins and then speak of the numerous things that we still want from Him. Instead, prayer is to be a time of praising and acknowledging Him for His greatness and holiness as Jesus did when He taught us to pray: Our Father which art in Heaven, Hallowed (kept holy) be Thy Name (Matt. 6:9). The Lord has taught us how we should adore Him and worship Him with thanksgiving for who He is, what He has given, and what He has promised. If we recognize that we are totally dependent on God for everything, it will lead us to praise Him.

"Worship" is more than merely singing, praying, or preaching. True worship is experienced in the heart of the worshiper. In every circumstance we should praise the Lord. To grumble about our circumstances is to express dissatisfaction with His arrangement of our lives. This is really questioning the wisdom and love of God for us. In every thing give thanks (I Thess. 5:18).

Thought for Today:

A person can be obedient and still miss out on the blessing of God by having a bad attitude or complaining about what God has asked them to do.
Christ Revealed:

Through the gold offered for the Temple by David from his personal wealth (I Chr. 29:3-5). Gold is the purest metal (Rev. 21:21) and represents the preciousness and great worth of Christ. He is pure (undefiled) (I John 3:3).
Word Studies:

27:2 course =division; 28:19 works =b> details; 29:1 tender =b> inexperienced; 29:3 proper good =b> personal treasure; 29:15 none abiding =b> soon gone; 29:19 palace =b> Temple.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Radio Sri Lanka Shortwave Broadcasts sponsored by Reverend Homer & Mary Ann Williams • Staff: Ilene Wallace • Government Officials: Sen. Mike Crapo (ID), Rep. Wally Herger (CA), and Rep. Nick Rahall II (WV) • Country: Mexico (99.7 million) in North America • Major language: Spanish • Religious freedom • 89% Catholic; 6% Protestant; 3.5% None; 1.5% Other (Orthodox, Muslim, Jewish, Baha'i) • Prayer Suggestion: Pray without anger or resentment in your heart (I Tim. 2:.
Optional Reading: I Corinthians 7

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 6:21

[Judy Harder]

May 21
Read II Chronicles 1 -- 3

Highlights In Today's Reading:

Solomon offers 1,000 burnt offerings (1:6). A quick summary of Solomon's abundance (1:13-17). After four years Solomon begins to build the Temple (2:1; 3:2). The gigantic plan, workmen, and material for the project follow (chaps. 2 -- 3), for great (awesome) is our God (2:5).
The first act of Solomon as king was to gather all the people to the ancient Tabernacle of the congregation of God, which Moses the servant of the Lord had made in the wilderness (1:3).

The Lord appeared to Solomon in a dream (I Kin. 3:5), saying: Ask what I shall give thee (II Chron. 1:7). In this dream Solomon asked for wisdom to lead the people of God. In response, the Lord let Solomon know this request would be granted. This is not Solomon's prayer to God, as is often thought. It was only a dream that God used in an attempt to get Solomon's attention as to what was most important. Solomon is credited with offering the largest sacrifices, building the most famous Temple, and becoming the most famous king; but, through this dream, the Lord was attempting to show Solomon that his real need was dependence upon Him.

Immediately following the offerings made at Gibeon, Solomon began purchasing chariots and horsemen: and he had a thousand and four hundred chariots, and twelve thousand horsemen, which he placed in the chariot cities (1:14-16; 9:25; I Kin. 4:26). But the largest burnt offering did not make up for his direct violation of the Word of God who commanded that the king shall not multiply horses to himself. . . . Neither shall he multiply wives to himself, that his heart turn not away: neither shall he greatly multiply to himself silver and gold (Deut. 17:16-17).

Solomon defiantly broke all three commandments and there is no record of his doing the fourth: He shall write him a copy of this Law in a book . . . and he shall read therein all the days of his life: that he may learn to fear the Lord his God, to keep all the words of this Law and these statutes, to do them (17:18-20).

Solomon amassed wealth to the extent that he made silver and gold . . . as plenteous as stones (II Chr. 1:15). We are saddened as we realize that he built all the buildings for his horses and chariots four years before he began to build the House of the Lord (3:1-2). We're even more disappointed to discover that Solomon loved many strange women who had no love for God but were idol worshipers. God had warned: Ye shall not go in to them, neither shall they come in unto you: for surely they will turn away your heart after their gods (I Kin. 11:1-2). Eventually, his heart was turned from the Lord God of Israel (11:9).

The heart is deceitful . . . and desperately wicked (Jer. 17:9). In the light of eternity, it is of utmost importance that we might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust (II Pet. 1:4).

Thought for Today:

Flowery words and elaborate displays can not take the place of a pure heart towards God.
Christ Revealed:

By the thousand burnt offerings of Solomon (II Chr. 1:6). We can be thankful that the one perfect offering of Christ on the cross did away with the need for many and continual individual offerings. He died unto sin once (for all) (Rom. 6:10; Heb. 10:10-12,14).
Word Studies:

2:2 told out =b> assigned; 2:7 cunning =b> skilled; can skill to grave =b> has skill to engrave; 2:14 find out every device =b> execute any design; 2:16 floats =b> rafts; 3:5 cieled =b> paneled; 3:10 of image work =b> fashioned by carving; 3:16 oracle =b> Holy of Holies.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Radio Sri Lanka Shortwave Broadcasts sponsored by Mrs. Pauline Moses • Staff: Ken Sharp • Country: Moldova (4.3 million) southeastern Europe • Major languages: Rumanian and Russian • Limited religious freedom • 66% Russian/Romanian Orthodox; 2.5% Catholic (Greek and Roman); 1.7% Protestant (mainly Baptist); 1.5% Jewish; .2% Muslim; 28.1% Agnostic/Atheist/Other • Prayer Suggestion: Raise your hands in praise and prayer, and worship the Lord (I Tim. 2:.
Optional Reading: I Corinthians 8

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 6:21

[Judy Harder]

May 22
Read II Chronicles 4 -- 6

Highlights In Today's Reading:

How could Solomon possibly do justice to the Most High God in furnishing His Temple? Read and see. We are His Temple. Do the "furnishings" surrounding our lives reflect purity or dross? Picture the worship as the Ark arrives with thousands in attendance! Surely a glimpse of heavenly worship!
The longest prayer recorded in the Scripture is Solomon's Prayer of Dedication of the Temple (6:14-42). All the people were gathered around Solomon as he stood on a platform near the Brazen Altar. Before he opened his mouth to pray, he kneeled down upon his knees before all the congregation of Israel, and spread forth his hands toward heaven (6:13).

It was not uncommon for the people of God to lift their hands in prayer and praise, as David, Solomon's father, had taught them: Lift up your hands in the sanctuary, and bless the Lord (Ps. 134:2-3). Christians today are also taught that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting (I Tim. 2:. As Solomon confessed in his opening words of prayer, O Lord God of Israel, there is no God like Thee in the heaven, nor in the earth (II Chr. 6:14), David taught us: O come, let us worship and bow down: let us kneel before the Lord our Maker (Ps. 95:6). And our Lord Jesus, in His High Priestly prayer in the garden, kneeled down, and prayed (Luke 22:41).

Solomon prayed for continued covenant blessings upon David's throne which God had promised if his children would take heed to their ways and walk in the Law of God, as David had done before them (II Chr. 6:16). He then turned his thoughts toward the Temple (6:18) that it might continue to be a dwelling place for God on earth. Solomon recognized that, without the presence of God, this magnificent Temple would be a worthless structure. And how true this is today. The presence of God now dwells in those who truly worship Him -- for we are the Temple of God (I Cor. 6:19; II Cor. 6:16; Rom. 8:9-11; I John 4:13). If any man defile the Temple of God, him shall God destroy (I Cor. 3:17). And then, Solomon's prayer turned to a plan for himself and others who would repent of their sins: When Thou hearest, forgive (II Chr. 6:21-22). But this is possible only if we truly repent and forsake our sins and become obedient followers of the Word of God. He assures us: Lo, I am with you alway (Matt. 28:19-20).

Christ dwells in the hearts of His people in the Person of His Holy Spirit (John 14:16). We look forward to that soon-coming glorious and great day when God will dwell on earth among all believers, and we have that assurance: I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the Tabernacle of God is with men, and He will dwell with them (Rev. 21:3).

Thought for Today:

When a covenant is made with God, both parties agree to keep the terms. But God alone makes the terms. Some people want God to keep His promises but don't want to keep their promises to Him.
Christ Revealed:

Through Solomon's prayer to God (II Chr. 6:14). Jesus is God: I and My Father are One (John 10:30; 17:22; 1:1; I John 5:7-8).
Word Studies:

4:2: molten sea =b> large metal, round basin; 4:22 censers =b> incense burners; 6:10 room =b> throne of Israel; 6:24 be put to the worse =b> are defeated; 6:28 dearth =b> famine; blasting =b> blight; sore =b> plague; 6:40 attent =b> attentive.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Shortwave Broadcasts in honor of Bruce Rutherford • Staff: Pam Pendergrast • Government Officials: Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA), Sen. Lisa Murkowski (AK), and Rep. John Sarbanes (MD) • Country: Monaco (32,000) in southeastern France • Major languages: French and English • No open evangelism permitted • 90% Roman Catholic; 7% Protestant; 1% Eastern Orthodox • Prayer Suggestion: Trust in God and offer up your prayers night and day (I Tim. 5:5).
Optional Reading: I Corinthians 9

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 6:21