Bible Pathways

[Judy Harder]

Read Psalms 36 -- 39
Highlights:

We are reminded of our sinfulness but then we hear of the perfection of God. Note how those that wait upon the Lord . . . shall inherit the earth (Ps. 37:9). Every day is precious and fleeting; let us be thankful and not waste much of our lives on mere earthly pleasures and material things (39:1-6).
David sat watching a fire burning and recorded: While I was musing the fire burned (Ps. 39:3), its bright flames slowly turned to ashes. He was reminded of how the most satisfying life soon fades and ends in death. This is a reminder to all of us that life will soon end. David then prayed: Lord, make me to know . . . the measure (brevity) of my days (life) (39:4). David realized how easy it is to get so caught up with material achievements that we neglect our most important purpose in life. Opportunities for fulfilling the will of God will soon be no more (39:13). David's prayer points out that the brevity of life is an issue everyone should consider, not just senior citizens. Compared to eternity, earthly life is very, very short. Yet, strangely enough, it is easy to be so involved with daily activities that we do not take seriously that we are just one breath away from death. How could we forget that the breath of life is the gift of God to each one of us. He can and will take it away when it is our time to finish this life.

In our brief journey on earth, we may sometimes retrace our steps or repeat a task; but wasted time can never be recovered. This points out how seriously we need to consider how we can be more effective and to take advantage of every opportunity to wholeheartedly serve Him. See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is (Eph. 5:15-17). Only as we read through the Bible will we fully know what God expects of us and how we should serve Him.

Much of our time and energy are devoted to preparations for earthly pleasures. Many make the fatal mistake of waiting too long for a "convenient time" to serve the Lord. But the clock of time will stop all too soon and without notice. Just as the sun is seen rising in the east, it will soon set in the west, and another day brings us that much closer to eternity. For the majority of us, death will come unexpectedly, and much sooner than we think.

It is of utmost importance that we reconsider our secular goals. Do they rob us of opportunities to seek . . . first the Kingdom of God, and His righteousness ( Matt. 6:33)?

Thought for Today:

Love your enemies, bless them that curse you . . . and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you (Matt. 5:44).
Christ Revealed:

As the Fountain of Life (and the) Light (Ps. 36:9). In Him was Life; and the Life was the Light of men. . . . That was the True Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world (John 1:4-9; comp. 4:10,14; Rev. 22:1).
Word Studies:

36:7 put their trust under =b> take refuge in; 38:2 presseth me sore =b> your punishment presses heavily upon me; 38:8 roared =b> groaned with anguish; 38:11 sore =b> afflictions.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for our Military worldwide • International Broadcasts for July sponsored by Mary Hoffmeyer • Staff: Dr. John A. Hash • Country: Peru (26 million) on the western coast of South America • Major languages: Spanish and Quechua • Open to evangelism and Bible distribution • 90% Christian; 8% non-Religious/Other; 1.2% Traditional ethnic; .3% Buddhist; .09% Baha'i; .02% Jewish • Prayer Suggestion: Bow before the Lord in a godly reverence as you pray and worship (Ex. 34:.
Optional Reading: Colossians 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: Matthew 6:34

 

[Judy Harder]

Read Psalms 40 -- 45

Highlights:

In today's reading learn more about Jesus and the glories of the Messiah and His Bride, the Church (born-again believers in Christ who is Savior and Lord of their lives). See the similarities between David's trusted adviser Ahithophel (II Sam. 15:12) and Judas, one of the 12 apostles (Matt. 26:25).
It was foretold by the psalmist that the Messiah, our wonderful Lord Jesus Christ who is King of kings, would always uphold truth . . . meekness and righteousness (Ps. 45:4) in His reign. In contrast, earthly kings are known for being ruthless and oppressive. Because the Lord Jesus is the only begotten sinless Son of God, David was inspired to write: Thy throne, O God, is for ever and ever: the sceptre of Thy Kingdom is a right (true) sceptre (symbol of the divine right to rule) (45:6). The Father had anointed Jesus and poured out abundantly on Him the oil of gladness (45:7) far above all others. After His resurrection, Jesus told His disciples: All things must be fulfilled, which were written in the Law of Moses, and in the Prophets, and in the Psalms, concerning Me (Luke 24:44).

The Apostle Paul quoted from Psalm 45 concerning Jesus as the Son of God, saying: Thy throne, O God, is for ever and ever: a sceptre of righteousness is the sceptre of Thy Kingdom. . . . God . . . hath anointed Thee with . . . oil (Heb. 1:8-9). Loving only what is right and hating all that is wrong is one of the numerous attributes of Christ.

Although we often fall short, those who have received Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior desire to express the same attributes of loving righteousness and hating lawlessness. Since Christians are the Bride of Christ, we desire to express the characteristics of the One we represent. The King sees only beauty in His Bride and we, in turn, recognize Him as our Lord and worship Him (Ps. 45:11). This means that He deserves to have our undivided allegiance.

In the midst of trying and uncertain circumstances, the Lord has assured us of His loving care over our lives. No Christian needs to fear what the future may be. We are instructed to trust the Lord for today's necessities and seek not . . . what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink. . . . For all these things do the nations of the world seek after: and your Father knoweth that ye have need of these things. But rather seek (desire) ye the Kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you (Luke 12:29-31). Jesus taught us to pray: Our Father. . . . Give us day by day our daily bread (whatever is needed for today) (11:2-3).

Thought for Today:

But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly (Matt. 6:6).
Christ Revealed:

As One who will do the will of God (Ps. 40:6-8). Jesus said that His purpose on earth was to do the will of Him that sent Me, and to finish His work (John 4:34; Heb. 10:7-9).
Word Studies:

40:6 ears . . . opened =b> open to obedience; 41:3 make all his bed in his sickness =b> sustain him in all his sickness; 42:1 panteth after =b> longs for; 42:11 health =b> salvation; 44:19 sore broken =b> severely crushed; 45:1 inditing =b> overflowing with; 45:6 right sceptre =b> righteous rule.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by a Family that loves Jesus • Bible Pathway Media Producer: Rick Hash • Government Official: Rep. At-Large Michael Castle (DE) • Country: Philippines (76 million) in Southeast Asia • Major languages: Filipino and English • Religious persecution in some areas • 80% Catholic; 9% Protestant; 8% Muslim (mostly Sunni); 3% Other (Buddhist, Animist, non-Religious) • Prayer Suggestion: Ask for the Lord's blessings and peace upon His children (Num. 6:24-27).
Optional Reading: I Thessalonians 1

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 6:34

[Judy Harder]

Read Psalms 46 -- 51

Highlights:

A powerful confirmation that reliability and safety are found only in God is recorded. Consequently, in today's reading we are reminded to be still and listen to God. This means we need not worry or be fearful, just worship and praise the Lord since He is in control and no good thing will He withhold from them that walk uprightly (Ps. 84:11). Consequently, we are to praise the Lord who is the true Ruler of the Earth.
David disregarded the Word of God when he lusted after the beautiful wife of his neighbor, Uriah the Hittite, one of his most loyal soldiers. While Uriah was at war, David committed adultery with Uriah's wife. Through a planned military maneuver initiated by David, Uriah was killed, allowing David to legally marry Bathsheba. It appeared to be a happy ending for David and Bathsheba until Nathan, the fearless prophet of God, appeared and denounced the king's selfish and wicked sins. Nathan asked: "Why did you despise the Word of God by killing Uriah the Hittite with the sword and then taking his wife to be your wife?" (II Sam. 12:9). Both acts were forbidden under the Law. David deserved to die and he knew it (Ex. 20:13; Lev. 20:10). He cast himself on the mercy of God as a brokenhearted sinner and humbly prayed: Have mercy upon me, O God, according to Thy loving-kindness. . . . cleanse me from my sin. . . . Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me (Ps. 51:1-2,10).

The Holy Spirit inspired David to record his own cry of sorrow and repentance. God is merciful to all repentant sinners. In answer to David's sincere prayers, God forgave him. But the result of his sin was personal shame and suffering for the rest of his life, as well as many tragic personal and national consequences.

We wish that this blight upon David's life had not happened. But it was recorded, not only to reveal the deception and never-ending devastation of lust, but to let us know that God forgives our sins when we repent and pray as David did. This holds out hope to the sinner who truly repents that he can experience the mercy and forgiving love of God. It also teaches the inescapable consequences of sin. David's prayer for mercy is a prayer for release from the presence and power of sin. He prayed: Blot out my transgressions. Wash me throughly from mine iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin (51:1-2). To blot out illustrates the way a debt would be erased or forgiven. Wash me . . . cleanse me illustrates the same way that dirty clothes would be washed.

If we walk in the light, as He is in the light . . . the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanseth us from all sin (I John 1:7).

Thought for Today:

But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking (Matt. 6:7).
Christ Revealed:

As the One who will judge His people (Ps. 50:4). The Lord Jesus Christ . . . shall judge the quick (living) and the dead at His appearing (II Tim. 4:1).
Word Studies:

46:6 heathen raged =b> nations were in turmoil; 48:11 daughters of Judah =b> its cities and villages as opposed to Jerusalem, the major city; 49:9 see corruption =b> experience death; 50:23 conversation =b> daily conduct; 51:4 clear =b> pure, blameless.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Official: Sen. Lamar Alexander (TN) • Country: Poland (38.6 million) in eastern Europe • Major language: Polish • Religious freedom 1 Thessalonians 2 (KJV)• 96% Roman Catholic (including Greek Catholic — .31%); 1.56% Orthodox; .5% Protestant; .01% Muslim; .01% Far Eastern Religions; 1.7% Other • Prayer Suggestion: Thank God for His mercy (Num. 12:11-14).
Optional Reading: I Thessalonians 2

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 6:34

 

[Judy Harder]

Read Psalms 52 -- 59

Highlights:

In these psalms David contemplates some discouraging times in his life. The end of the wicked is contrasted with the peace of the godly. Then he speaks of the folly of the godless and longs for Israel to be restored. These are followed by prayers for deliverance from adversaries, the treachery of "friends," and relief from tormentors. He finishes with a plea for judgment of the wicked and then offers praise to the Lord for His protection.
God must judge all unconfessed sin. It is fitting that David, the man after His (God's) own heart (I Sam. 13:14), expressed the exceeding hatred God has for the evil which corrupts His creation. Included in Psalm 59 is David's prayer: O my God: defend me from them that rise up against me (vs 1). He also prayed that God would not be merciful to his enemies, since God cannot be merciful to any sinner who does not repent of his sins (59:5,13). True repentance prepares our hearts to receive Christ as our Savior and allows Him to become Lord of our lives in obedience to His Word (Acts 2:38; 4:12).

David recognized that sinful acts are rebellion against God as well as against others. David identified himself with God, who hates sin, and declared that he too hated those who rebel against God and counted them as his enemies as well. For David it was the expression of a king who loved the Lord and His ways and recognized that he was the anointed representative of God on earth and, therefore, was responsible to administer justice on the Lord's behalf.

There is coming a day of reckoning when God will render to every man according to his deeds: To them who by patient continuance in well doing seek for glory and honour and immortality, eternal life: But unto them that . . . do not obey the truth, but obey unrighteousness, indignation and wrath, Tribulation (Distress) and anguish, (will be) upon every soul of man that doeth evil (Rom. 2:6-9). You can be among those who look forward to Christ's return if you repent and forsake your sins. Let Christ be Lord of your life and read His Word in order to do His will. Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation (II Cor. 6:2).

Though Jesus first came as the "Suffering Servant," when He returns it will be as the "Conquering King" who will make war against the forces of Satan and will judge all mankind by His righteousness. The sharp sword that will go forth out of His mouth is the Word of God. Jesus said: He that rejecteth Me, and receiveth not My words, hath One that judgeth him: the Word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day (John 12:48).

Thought for Today:

After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be Thy Name (Matt. 6:9).
Christ Revealed:

As the One who saves those who will call on Him (Ps. 55:16-17). And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the Name of the Lord shall be saved (Acts 2:21; also Rom. 10:13).
Word Studies:

53:3 filthy =b> corrupt; 55:4 sore =b> grievously; 55:9 divide their tongues =b> bring confusion to their counsel; 59:10 prevent =b> go before me.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Officials: Rep. Sam Farr (CA) and Rep. Dan Maffei (NY) • Country: Portugal (10 million) in western Europe • Major language: Portuguese • Limited religious freedom • 95% Christian; 4% non-Religious/Other; .5% Muslim; .1% Hindu; .01% Jewish • Prayer Suggestion: Intercede in prayer for others (Num. 14:13-19).
Optional Reading: I Thessalonians 3

Memory Verse for the Week: II Corinthians 4:7

 

[Judy Harder]

Read Psalms 60 -- 66

Highlights:

The reason for praise to our faithful God is revealed in these seven psalms. They begin with thanksgiving for restored fellowship. Today's reading will put in your heart a desire to give praise and more praise to our marvelous Creator.
Because of Saul's relentless search and his efforts to kill him, David was forced to flee to a desolate area outside the promised land. Exiled from his loved ones and the physical advantages of the king's palace, he prayed: Hear my cry, O God; attend (listen) unto my prayer. From the end of the earth will I cry unto Thee, when my heart is overwhelmed: lead me to the Rock that is higher than I. For Thou hast been a shelter for me, and a strong tower from the enemy (Ps. 61:1-3)..

David was overwhelmed with sorrow and loneliness, even as any one of us would be. He prayed intensely, asking God to hear his prayer. But more than confessing his distress he expressed his confidence in God as the Rock that is higher than I. . . . a shelter . . . and a strong tower from the enemy. Although his desolate situation seemed like the end of the earth, David was confident that his True Source of protection and safety from his enemies was the living God Himself, who was like a great tower of protection. Making God our strong tower means recognizing that His followers are in the protective care of the invincible God. Depression and frustration need not exist in the life of one who believes that God is the strong tower in the face of evil forces. We have His assurance that no good thing will He withhold from them that walk uprightly (84:11). Like David, we can depend upon the Lord for protection and provision, regardless of how hopeless our circumstances may seem, since the Lord has assured us: Behold, I am the Lord, the God of all flesh: is there any thing too hard for Me? (Jer. 32:27).

Although David was forced to endure his difficult circumstances for many years, he continued to trust in the Lord: Truly my soul waiteth upon God. . . . He only is my Rock and my Salvation (Ps. 62:1-2). David then turned his thoughts to others who faced trials and suffering, and continued to encourage all of us to trust in Him at all times . . . pour out your heart before Him: God is a Refuge for us (62:. It is sobering to know that everything we face in life is used of the Lord to prepare us for eternity. In every situation, good or bad, it is always safe to trust the Lord. We are reminded that nothing shall separate us from the love of Christ (Rom. 8:35).

Thought for Today:

Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak (Matt. 26:41).
Christ Revealed:

As the Rock — the unmovable, eternal, unchanging Savior (Ps. 61:2; 62:2,6-7). Jesus is the Rock of our salvation and that spiritual Rock (Petras) that followed (accompanied) them (Israelites) (I Cor. 10:4).
Word Studies:

60:12 do valiantly =b> gain the victory, do great things; 61:4 covert =b> shelter, protecting power; 62:9 to be laid in the balance =b> they prove to be worthless; 63:5 marrow and fatness =b> the richest of foods; 64:6 search out iniquities =b> devise injustices; 64:8 their own tongue to fall upon themselves =b> their own words will bring them to ruin; 66:3 terrible =b> awesome.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Miss Mary Kay Wagner • Staff: Beth Carlton • Government Officials: Rep. Todd Akin (MO), Rep. David Dreier (CA), Rep. John Fleming (LA), Rep. Jim Himes (CT), Rep. Nita Lowey (NY), and Sen. Roger Wicker (MS) • Country: Qatar (600,000) in southwestern Asia • Major languages: Arabic and English • Muslim conversion to Christ is forbidden, but expatriate Christians are allowed to meet informally • 79.5% Muslim; 10.5% Christian; 7.2% Hindu; 1.8% Buddhist; .9% non-Religious/Other • Prayer Suggestion: Intercede in prayer for others (Num. 21:7).
Optional Reading: I Thessalonians 4

Memory Verse for the Week: II Corinthians 4:7

 

[Judy Harder]

Read Psalms 67 -- 71

Highlights:

A mixture of worship, giving glory to God, and pleas for His help in trouble to relieve Israel from its adversaries. A Messianic prophecy is recorded here and its fulfillment proclaimed in the New Testament. Today's reading ends with the personal testimony of a devout old man praising the Holy One of Israel (Ps. 71:9,22-23) for his redemption.
The psalmist encourages everyone to rejoice and sing for joy (Ps. 67:4). Furthermore, singing and giving praise to the Lord always brings satisfaction and peace of mind. While we await Jesus' return from heaven, the psalmist reminds us to rejoice: Let the righteous be glad; let them rejoice before God: yea, let them exceedingly rejoice. Sing unto God, sing praises to His Name: extol (praise) Him that rideth upon the heavens by His Name JAH, and rejoice before Him (68:3-4). JAH is short for the Name of Jehovah (Yahweh), who is ever in the present.

Let us join with the psalmist in a proclamation of praise and adoration for Jesus Christ, our wonderful Savior and Lord, who generously pours out His blessings upon us. Let the people praise Thee, O God; let all the people praise Thee (67:3).

The psalmist also foretold the resurrection of Christ. A numerous host of people will proclaim the glorious news of His victory. Jesus ascended on high, Thou hast led captivity captive. . . . and unto God the Lord belong the issues from death (68:18,20). All the kingdoms of the earth sing praises unto the Lord (68:32) as they express their heartfelt worship. Paul explained the meaning of this psalm as a prophecy concerning Christ, who ascended up on high, He led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men (Eph. 4:. This means He conquered death and Satan, who had held mankind in bondage (Heb. 2:15). Gifts were given to apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers to equip the people of God to do His work, and to help them mature, and grow in the likeness of Christ (Eph. 4:11-12).

Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth My Word, and believeth on Him that sent Me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life. . . . Marvel not at this . . . all that are in the graves shall hear His voice, And shall come forth; they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life; and they that have done evil, unto the resurrection of damnation (John 5:24,28-29).

Thought for Today:

Therefore I say unto you, What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them (Mark 11:24).
Christ Revealed:

As the One who led captivity captive (Ps. 68:18). With His resurrection power, Jesus broke the captive power of Satan. When He led the Old Testament saints from paradise into heaven, He led captivity captive (comp. Eph. 4:8; also Gal. 5:1; Rev. 1:18).
Word Studies:

67:2 saving health =b> salvation; 68:4 JAH is an abbreviation of Jehovah — the Eternal, Self-Existent One — and corresponds to I AM THAT I AM; 68:13 pots =b> sheepfolds; 68:18 led captivity captive =b> led your captives captive — a prophecy concerning Jesus Christ (Ephesians 4:8-9); 68:20 issues =b> escapes; 68:35 terrible =awesome, astonishing; 70:3 Aha, aha =b> an expression of scorn.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Viola R. Gist and John L. O'Donnell • Staff: Jennifer Cunningham • Country: Romania (22.5 million) in southeastern Europe • Major languages: Rumanian and Hungarian • Freedom of worship • 69.5% Romanian Orthodox Church; 14% non-Religious/Other; 8% Protestant; 7% Catholic; 1% Muslim; .1% Jewish; .4% Marginal • Prayer Suggestion: Ask for the blessings of God upon your family and home (II Sam. 7:29).
Optional Reading: I Thessalonians 5

Memory Verse for the Week: II Corinthians 4:7

[Judy Harder]

Read Psalms 72 -- 77

Highlights:

The end comes for mighty King David's reign. Old, feeble, and near death, he prays his last prayer (Ps. 72:20) — not for his son, but for the one put in charge of the people of God. A series of psalms attributed to Asaph, David's song leader, follows. He laments: "Woe is me" and "It's not fair" as he sees the wicked prosper. Then he praises God that the righteous triumph. Learn a lesson from Asaph. In his trouble he chooses to remember who is so great a God as our God? (77:13).
The psalmist praised the Lord for the assurance that no effort against the faithful people of God, regardless of how powerful, can prevent Him from protecting and blessing those who are obedient to His Word. For promotion cometh neither from the east, nor from the west, nor from the south. But God is the judge: He putteth down one, and setteth up another (Ps. 75:6-7). God controls both the present and the future of His people. His judgment is impartial and righteous.

When confronted by problems, we need to praise our Almighty God, who hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee (Heb. 13:5). However, the psalmist was also led to proclaim that the proud and self-willed who love to boast will be judged (Ps. 75:4-5).

To illustrate this fact, in the 75th psalm God is referred to as the God of Jacob (75:9); God wonderfully blessed Jacob. Esau had threatened to murder his brother Jacob over the birthright God had foretold would rightfully be Jacob's although Esau was the firstborn. God knew Esau would despise the birthright and Jacob would cherish the Covenant blessing promised to Abraham and Isaac (Gen. 25:21-23).

When Esau threatened to kill Jacob, he left home to live with his uncle Laban more than 500 miles north. Twenty years later, when Esau received word that Jacob was returning home, Esau went out to meet him with 400 of his servants (32:6). It appeared that Esau would now fulfill his vow to kill Jacob in order to regain his birthright. This threat led Jacob to pray all night, after which God marvelously blessed him and gave this man of God a new name, Israel. He is referred to and praised far more times than all other men in Old Testament history (32:24-29).

Now that we have seen how God blessed Jacob, the man of faith who wrestled all night in prayer, we should take this lesson to heart. We too need to spend more time in prayer. God assures us: The wicked also will I cut off; but the horns (strength) of the righteous shall be exalted (Ps. 75:10).

Thought for Today:

Take ye heed, watch and pray: for ye know not when the time is (Mark 13:33).
Christ Revealed:

As the Righteous Judge who will crush the oppressor (Ps. 72:2-4). Psalm 75:8 describes the judgment of God upon those who refuse to accept the salvation so freely offered by Jesus, the Lamb of God (John 1:29,34-36; comp. II Thess. 1:8-9).
Word Studies:

73:4 bands =b> pain; 73:21 pricked in my reins =b> emotionally disturbed; 74:2 the rod =b> the tribe; 74:4 set up their ensigns for signs =b> replace the symbols of God with their own symbols; 75:5 speak not with a stiff neck =b> defy not God with an insolent attitude.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored that many may be reached for Jesus' kingdom • Country: Russia (146.5 million) northeastern Europe and northern Asia • Major language: Russian • Religious freedom • 55% Russian Orthodox; 9% Muslim; 1% Protestant (Baptist, Pentecostal); .8% Shamanist/Animist; .6% Buddhist; .5% Roman Catholic; .5% New Religions (e.g., Hare Krishna); .4% Jewish; .1% Old Believers; 32.1% Agnostics/Atheists/Others • Prayer Suggestion: Ask the Lord to give you discernment and an understanding heart (I Kings 3:9).
Optional Reading: II Thessalonians 1

Memory Verse for the Week: II Corinthians 4:7

[Judy Harder]

 
Read Psalms 78 -- 80
Highlights:

Oh how quickly we forget! This could be describing us today. The people find themselves in trouble. They cry out to God to be saved, are restored, and promise to stay faithful! How often have we heard or said that (Ps. 78:34-42)?
God had chosen Israel to be His witness to the world. As His people, they were to be examples of how He would bless all who honor Him and His Word; but, they failed miserably and the glorious City of God was destroyed. We are reminded of the pitiful heartbreak and awesome horror felt by the Israelites following the destruction of the Temple and Jerusalem. They had assumed that, since they were the chosen Covenant people of God, they were secure even though they had chosen to disobey God's Covenant and His Commandments. The awful consequences of sin are inevitable. The psalmist cried out: O God, the heathen (nations) are come into Thine inheritance; Thy holy Temple have they defiled; they have laid Jerusalem on heaps (in ruins) (Ps. 79:1).

The few remaining faithful Israelites pleaded: Help us, O God of our salvation, for the glory of Thy Name: and deliver us, and purge away our sins, for Thy Name's sake (79:9).

Since the destruction of Jerusalem in A.D. 70, there has been no Ark of the Covenant, no Mercy Seat, no Temple, no Brazen Altar, no Laver, no Golden Candlestick, no Table of Showbread, and no Altar of Incense to scripturally observe any sacrifice as commanded by God through Moses. God allowed all that had been essential to cover their sins to be destroyed because all of Israel's sacrifices and feasts were symbols created by God to foreshadow and explain all that was to be accomplished by Jesus the Messiah.

With Jesus' death, all of the Old Testament sacrifices for sins were made obsolete and the old sacrificial system under the Law was destroyed soon after the crucifixion and resurrection of Christ. The blood sacrifices of animals could only temporarily atone for (cover) sins of the Israelites. How much more shall the blood of Christ . . . purge (cleanse) your conscience from dead works to serve the living God? (Heb. 9:14).

The sacrifice of Christ on the cross made it possible for both Jews and Gentiles, who recognize themselves as lost sinners, truly repent, and receive Jesus as their Savior, to be forgiven of their sins. For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus (Gal. 3:27-28).

Thought for Today:

Watch ye and pray, lest ye enter into temptation. The spirit truly is ready, but the flesh is weak (Mark 14:38).
Christ Revealed:

As the true Shepherd (Ps. 80:1). Christ is the Good Shepherd and the Door through which one must enter to be saved. He alone is The Way to heaven (John 10:9,11).
Word Studies:

78:15 clave =b> split; 78:34 inquired early =b> sought diligently; 79:4 derision =b> ridicule; 80:3 Turn us again =b> Restore us; 80:8 a vine =b> Israel; 80:12 hedges =b> wall or fences; 80:18 quicken =b> revive.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Executive Director of the IBRA in our Washington DC Branch: Reverend Michael Hall • Government Official: Rep. John Dingell (MI) • Country: Rwanda (7 million) in central Africa • Major languages: Kinyarwanda and French • Religious freedom • 80% Christian; 10.5% Muslim; 4.5% non-Religious/Other; 4% Traditional ethnic; .2% Baha'i • Prayer Suggestion: Ask the Lord to bring our nation to repentance (I Kings 8:33-36).
Optional Reading: II Thessalonians 2

Memory Verse for the Week: II Corinthians 4:7

[Judy Harder]

Read Psalms 81 -- 87

Highlights:

How sad! God, the Creator of the world, speaks; then He waits for His indifferent servants: I am the Lord thy God, which brought thee out of the land of Egypt. . . . but My people would not hearken to My voice. . . . they walked in their own counsels (Ps. 81:10-12). However, in times of trouble, the people quickly pray for protection. Then our merciful Father forgives and the exiles return. The love of God is clearly expressed: No good thing will He withhold from them that walk uprightly (84:11).
The Holy Spirit guided David to unite the only two weapons of our spiritual warfare — prayer and the inspired Word of God. Psalm 86 expresses the power we have when these become our way of life. When David prayed: Bow down Thine ear, O Lord, hear me: for I am poor and needy (Ps. 86:1), he was acknowledging his dependence on God (86:2). He continued to pray: Be merciful unto me, O Lord: for I cry unto Thee daily (86:3). Although David was the king of Israel he recognized the lordship of God over his life (86:4). He often spoke of himself as the servant of the Lord in the psalms.

David continued in worship to confess the mercy of God and His readiness to forgive. He expressed with utmost confidence that God listens to His people's prayers and delivers them from all harm regardless of their circumstances (86:5,7,13,15). The godly person does not depend upon previous learning to continue a day-by-day walk in the way of truth, but upon the continual daily guidance of God through His Word. Instruction is much more than just information; it is also the means to understand His will and to be obedient, for it carries the thought of correction (86:11). The child of God never graduates from His school of instruction; that is why all of us need to read His Word each day.

A commitment to Christ to be the Lord of your life is essential. The Apostle Peter recognized this when he admonished us to diligently build upon our faith virtue (moral excellence), then knowledge, then temperance (self-control), then patience, then godliness, then brotherly kindness, which will produce in us genuine charity (love) to do the will of God (II Pet. 1:5-8). The God who created us has made everything which pertains to life and godliness available to us. His power is made possible as we read His Word, for the Word of God is quick (living and active), and powerful (Heb. 4:12). We have the potential to live in obedience to His Word. But, we must be faithful day-by-day and take the initiative. Faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God (Rom. 10:17).

Thought for Today:

Bless them that curse you, and pray for them which despitefully use you (Luke 6:28).
Christ Revealed:

By Jerusalem, from where the psalmist declared all of the springs (sources) of joy and happiness emanate (Ps. 87:7). Jesus is the source of our joy as the angel announced at His birth (Luke 2:10). Jesus also declared: These things have I spoken unto you, that My joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full (John 15:11).
Word Studies:

82:1 among the gods =b> earthly rulers and judges; 82:4 rid =b> rescue; 82:5 foundations . . . out of course =b> administration of justice is ignored; 82:6 Ye are gods =b> You are My representatives; 83:2 lifted up the head =b> exalted themselves.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Assistant to the Executive Director of the IBRA in our Washington DC Branch: Terry Hall • Government Officials: Rep. Dave Camp (MI), Rep. Scott Garrett (NJ), and Sen. Lindsey Graham (SC) • Country: Samoa (190,000) in the South Pacific • Major languages: Samoan and English • Religious freedom • 68% Protestant; 21% Roman Catholic; 2% Baha'i; 1.1% non-Religious/Other • Prayer Suggestion: Kneel in a humble spirit of reverence as you pray to the Lord (I Kings 8:54).
Optional Reading: II Thessalonians 3

Memory Verse for the Week: II Corinthians 4:7

[Judy Harder]

Saturday, July 10, 2010   

Read Psalms 88 -- 91

Highlights:

Have you ever despaired in the long hours of night, calling out to God in your darkest hours like the psalmist in today's reading? Or, have you experienced the answer of God breaking forth in the dawn bringing light through His wonderful mercy as in this magnificent Psalm 89? Don't miss the 91st, one of the best-loved psalms, which pledges amazing promises of blessings.
He that dwelleth in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty (Ps. 91:1). This is one whose heart is set on being obedient to the Lord. To abide under the shadow of the Almighty there is a need to draw nigh to God, and He will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, ye sinners; and purify your hearts, ye double minded (James 4:. When in doubt, abstain from all appearance of evil (I Thess. 5:22).

The psalmist expressed the utmost confidence in the loving care of God when he said: Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; nor for the arrow that flieth by day (Ps. 91:5). The psalmist then assured the faithful, saying: Because thou hast made the Lord . . . thy habitation (dwelling place); There shall no evil befall thee. . . . For He shall give His angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways (91:9-11).

Satan, a fallen angel, quoted these verses to Jesus after His 40-day fast in an attempt to persuade Jesus to leap off the pinnacle of the Temple. Satan said: If Thou be the Son of God (meaning: Since [or to prove] You are the Son of God), cast Thyself down: for it is written, He shall give His angels charge concerning Thee: and in their hands they shall bear Thee up, lest at any time Thou dash Thy foot against a stone (Matt. 4:6; Ps. 91:11-12). There are some who love the promises of God but who disregard the conditions of those promises. Our Lord set the example when He responded to Satan by quoting Scripture which warns not to tempt the Lord God: It is written again, Thou shalt not tempt (test) the Lord thy God (Matt. 4:7; also Deut. 6:16). We have no assurance that the Lord's angels will keep us if we choose "ways" that serve self and misapply His Word.

Satan has deceived many by saying: "Your situation is an exception" or "Just this one time" or "Be broadminded; everyone is doing it." He also uses examples of hypocrites to deceive some by pointing out: "Religious people do these things, so why shouldn't you?" We must continually be casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ (II Cor. 10:5).

Thought for Today:

The harvest truly is great, but the labourers are few: pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that He would send forth labourers into His harvest (Luke 10:2).
Christ Revealed:

By the seed (descendants) of David (Ps. 89:3-4). Concerning His Son Jesus Christ our Lord, which was made of the seed (descendants) of David according to the flesh (Rom. 1:3; also Matt. 1:1; Luke 3:31-32).
Word Studies:

88:13 prevent =b> come before; 89:10 Rahab in this context is a poetic name for Egypt (see 87:4; Isaiah 51:9); 89:24 horn be exalted =b> authority shall increase; 89:41 spoil =b> plunder; 90:13 let it repent thee concerning =b> change your judgment to compassion on; 91:13 dragon =b> serpent, a reference to Satan. And he laid hold on the dragon, that old serpent, which is the Devil, and Satan, and bound him a thousand years (Revelation 20:2; see also 12:3-4,7,9,13,16-17;13:2,4,11).
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Officials: Rep. Russ Carnahan (MO), Rep. Phil Gingrey (GA), Rep. Ron Klein (FL), and Rep. Tom McClintock (CA) • Country: San Marino (25,000) inside north-central Italy • Major language: Italian • Religious freedom • 95% Roman Catholic; 5% atheist • Prayer Suggestion: Bless the Lord that His Word is absolutely trustworthy (I Kings 8:56).
Optional Reading: I Timothy 1

Memory Verse for the Week: II Corinthians 4:7