Bible Pathways

[Judy Harder]

January 3, 2011   

Read Genesis 7 -- 9
Highlights:

Noah enters the ark. The great flood wiped out all but eight that lived in Noah's day (Gen. 7:23)! Noah's assignment (9:1,7; see 1:28). The rainbow, the sign of the Covenant of God (9:11-17). Noah's prophecy concerning his three sons.
Noah was able to save his family and preserve mankind because of his faith in the spoken Word of God which led him to build the ark. During the many years spent in constructing the ark, he was also known as a preacher of righteousness in an ungodly world (II Pet. 2:5). This illustrates the New Testament Truth that faith without works is dead (James 2:26). The ark was a secure refuge from certain death; it was also a type of Christ, who provides refuge from spiritual death for all believers. Christ, our spiritual Ark, continues to call the lost today: Come unto Me . . . and I will give you rest (Matt. 11:28).

For Noah and his family, there came a day, prior to the flood, The Lord said unto Noah, Come thou and all thy house into the ark. . . . And the Lord shut him in (Gen. 7:1,16). This shows the special attention and personal care that God gives to all who are faithful to Him. All who wait for a more convenient time to be saved need to realize that it is an insult to God who said: Now is the accepted time . . . now is the day of salvation (II Cor. 6:2). Let us therefore fear, lest, a promise being left us of entering into His rest, any of you should seem to come short of it (Heb. 4:1).

Just as Noah was able to rest within the ark, secure from the waters of death, Christians can be assured of spiritual rest, for our lives are hid with Christ in God (Col. 3:3). As soon as he was once more on dry land, Noah builded an altar unto the Lord . . . and offered burnt offerings on the altar (Gen. 8:20). The obedience of faith and the worship of God go hand in hand. Just as Noah was not given an exact day when the flood would come, neither do we know the day that we will face the Lord either through death or at His Coming.

Of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels (messengers) of heaven, but My Father only. But as the days of Noe were, so shall also the coming of the Son of Man be. For as in the days that were before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noe entered into the ark, And knew (understood) not until the flood came, and took them all away; so shall also the coming of the Son of Man be. . . . Therefore be . . . ready (Matt. 24:36-39,44).

Thought for Today:

I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord (Rom. 8:38-39).
Christ Revealed:

Through the Ark (Gen. 7:1,7; Acts 4:12; I Pet. 3:12, 20). Christ is our Ark of safety. Jesus . . . delivered us from the wrath to come (I Thess. 1:10).
Word Studies:

8:1 asswaged subsided; 8:3 abated decreased; 8:21 sweet savour symbolic of satisfaction; 9:9 Covenant finding agreement with qualifications given by God; 9:13 bow rainbow; 9:20 husbandman farmer.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in honor of Dr. John A. Hash • Country: North Korea (22.2 million) in northeastern Asia • Major language: Korean • Violent oppression against all religions • 68% atheist; 15% Ch'ondogyo; 14% Other Traditional; 2% Buddhist; 1% Christian • Prayer Suggestion: Praise God for godly men of old who were faithful to record His Word of Truth (Hab. 2:1-2).
Optional Reading: Matthew 3

Memory Verse for the Week: Genesis 1:1

[Judy Harder]

January 4, 2011   

Read Genesis 10 -- 12
Highlights:

What a time to be alive! Note industrial lineage from Ham; intellectuals from Japheth; spiritual through Shem, from which came the Savior. Seeking personal fame, the descendants make a 'monumental' error (Gen. 11:4). In contrast, God introduces the Hebrew race beginning with Abram.
More than four hundred years had passed since the last recorded communication from heaven. Because of the sinful tendency of mankind, God spoke to Abram (Abraham), asking him to surrender everything to Him and fully trust His leading.

Now the Lord had said unto Abram, Get thee out of thy country (in Mesopotamia), and from thy kindred, and from thy father's house, unto a land that I will shew thee. . . . So Abram departed, as the Lord had spoken unto him; and Lot went with him (Gen. 12:1,4). Abram responded to the call of God and gave up his country, home, and friends, and by faith obeyed God, committing himself to an unknown future. He could not have known that the journey would be more than a thousand miles to the promised land. Lot, like so many today, was more concerned over material advantages and eventually pitched his tent toward Sodom (13:12). In contrast, Abraham remained faithful.

Many have started out in the right direction with the people of God, but when confronted with worldly opportunities, they choose self-interests, and eventually find themselves caught up in worldly affairs. Lot never recovered from that disastrous decision when he chose the well-watered plains of Sodom and forsook the godly influence of Abraham (13:10).

Abraham endured many years of severe testing and God found him to be a man who would remain faithful and obey His Word regardless of the circumstances. The call of God demands that we make a choice. Even the closest ties of human loyalty or affection must be cut when they conflict with our submission to Christ and what is written in His Word.

Abraham's life was one of building altars and communicating with God. Every Christian has the privilege to be known of God as one who consistently reads His Word and prays with a desire to understand His will with a willingness to walk in it.

And the Scripture was fulfilled which saith, Abraham believed God, and it was imputed (regarded) unto him for righteousness: and he was called the Friend of God. Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only (James 2:23-24).

Thought for Today:

He that taketh not his cross, and followeth after Me, is not worthy of Me (Matt. 10:38).
Christ Revealed:

As the Promised Seed of Abram (Gen. 12:3,7; comp. Matt. 1:1; Acts 3:25-26; Gal. 3:16). Abram was a type of Christ who leads the way to a far better promised land (John 14:2-4,6; Heb. 11:8-10).
Word Studies:

10:5 isles of the Gentiles divided in their lands they became separate nations; isles was a term used by the Hebrews to designate all countries accessible to them by sea, including those of Europe; after his tongue according to their language; 11:3 Go to some; slime probably pitch and tar; 11:4 upon over; make us a name become a great people; glorify ourselves rather than God; lest we be instead of our being; 11:9 confound confuse; 12:5 substance possessions; 12:7 seed descendants, offspring; 12:10 sojourn live temporarily; grievous severe.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Lt. Col. and Mrs. Walter W. Swanson • Bible Pathway Media Producer: Rick Hash • Country: Norway (4.45 million) in northern Europe • Major language: Norwegian • Religious freedom • 87.8% Evangelical Lutheran; 3.8% Other Protestant and Catholic; 3.2% None; 5.2% Other (Orthodox, Muslim, Jewish, Buddhist, Jehovah's Witness) • Prayer Suggestion: Examine yourself. Has prosperity dulled your willingness to sacrifice (Hag. 1:4)?
Optional Reading: Matthew 4

Memory Verse for the Week: Genesis 1:1

[Judy Harder]

January 5, 2011   

Read Genesis 13 -- 15
Highlights:

Don't miss the life-changing message in today's reading. Lot chooses to be greedy (Gen. 13:10-12). See the blessings increase as Abram allows Lot to take advantage of him rather than fight for his rights. Abram's act of faith was reaffirmed (13:14-17); Abram and Lot separate; Abram moves to Hebron; Abram rescues Lot; Melchizedek blesses Abram; the Covenant of God with Abram.
Abraham reached the age 80 and was still childless. Humanly speaking it seemed very unlikely that God's promise, I will make of thee a great nation (12:2), could be fulfilled. After these things the Word of the Lord came unto Abram in a vision, saying, Fear not, Abram: I am thy shield, and thy exceeding great reward. And Abram said, Lord God, what wilt Thou give me, seeing I go childless, and the steward of my house is this Eliezer of Damascus . . . And he believed in the Lord; and He counted it to him for righteousness (Gen. 15:1-2,6).

Abram confessed in prayer his fears: Lord, what wilt Thou give me, seeing I go childless. This was not a prayer of unbelief in the power of God to perform His promise but rather a searching as to how it should be accomplished. God knew Abram's thoughts and revealed Himself to him for the fifth time encouraging him to fear not.

The Lord assured Abram that he was not to look to Eliezer of Damascus as his heir but that his own son would be born. Even though there was no prospect of a child, the Scripture says that Abram believed in the Lord. To believe in the Lord means so much more than to merely believe in His existence. We may believe the Bible is the inspired Word of God yet this may be nothing more than acknowledging its existence. When we say we believe that the Lord exists, it is one thing; but when we say that we believe in the Lord, the real meaning is eternally different and deeper. If thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised Him from the dead, thou shalt be saved (Rom. 10:9). Faith grows even when circumstances look impossible if we simply take God at His Word and remain faithful.

For what saith the Scripture? Abraham believed God, and it was counted unto him for righteousness. Now to him that worketh is the reward not reckoned of grace, but of debt. But to him that worketh not, but believeth on Him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness (Rom. 4:3-5).

Thought for Today:

Be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in peace; and the God of love and peace shall be with you (II Cor. 13:11).
Christ Portrayed:

By the high priest, Melchizedek, who brought forth bread and wine (Gen. 14:18-20; Heb. 4:15-16; 5:5-10; 7:1-4). Today Christ is our High Priest who is interceding in prayer for us and He alone is deserving of our gifts and service to Him. Jesus took bread . . . and . . . the cup, and . . . gave it (Matt. 26:26-27).
Word Studies:

13:6 bear support; 14:5 smote subdued; 14:18 Salem Jerusalem; 14:20 tithes gifts of the first 10% of all material or financial increase; 14:22 I have lift up mine hand unto the LORD abraham made an oath (promise) to God; 15:3 seed descendants; 15:4 thine own bowels four own body; 15:5 tell mount; 15:13 stranger temporary resident; 15:14 great substance wealth; 15:15 go to thy fathers lie; 15:16 iniquity in; full complete.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by James P. Devery • Government Officials: Rep. Carolyn McCarthy (NY) and Gov. Edward Rendell (PA) • Country: Oman (2 million) on the southeastern coast of Arabia • Major languages: Arabic and English • Fewer restrictions on Christian activity than most of its neighbors • 97% Muslim; .5% Christian • Prayer Suggestion: Glory in the Lord. He is Victor over Satan (Zech. 3:2)..
Optional Reading: Matthew 5

Memory Verse for the Week: Genesis 1:1

[Judy Harder]

 January 6, 2011   

Read Genesis 16 -- 18
Highlights:

What dynamic chapters of Scripture! Birth of Ishmael. Abram's name changed to Abraham. Circumcision seals the Covenant betweeen God, Abraham, and his descendants (Gen. 17:9-14,23-27). God promises Abraham who is 99, a son: Sarah thy wife shall have a son (18:10). Who laughed? Why (18:1-15)? A crisis meeting with the Creator. Abraham takes his heavy heart straight to God (18:16-33).
Abram and Sarai were childless. God had promised Abram a son (Gen. 15:2-4), but 10 years had passed and now he was 85 years old. At that time, Sarai said unto Abram . . . the Lord hath restrained me from bearing . . . go in unto my maid; it may be that I may obtain children (have a family) by her (16:2). At age 86, Abram fathered a son, Ishmael, by Hagar.

Thirteen years passed after the birth of Ishmael (16:16; 17:1). Then God again spoke to Abram: I am the Almighty God. . . . thy name shall be Abraham. . . . I will establish My Covenant (Agreement) between Me and thee and thy seed (descendants). . . . My Covenant will I establish with Isaac, which Sarah shall bear unto thee at this set time . . . next year (17:1-21).

Abraham was now 99 years old and Sarah was 90. At her age, it was humanly impossible for Sarah to have a child. But God revealed to Abraham: I am the Almighty God, meaning the One who is All-Sufficient and said: I know him . . . he will command his children and his household after him, and they shall keep the way of the Lord, to do justice and judgment; that the Lord may bring upon Abraham that which He hath spoken of him (18:19).

One of the great tests of our faith is patiently waiting upon the Lord. It may take two weeks, two years, or, as in Abraham's situation, 25 years for our prayers to be answered or for the promises of God to be fulfilled. The Holy Spirit led the Apostle Paul to write concerning Abraham's faith that he was fully persuaded that, what He (God) had promised, He was able also to perform. . . . Therefore it was imputed (credited) to him (Abraham) for righteousness (Rom. 4:21-22).

God had said to Abraham: Walk before Me, and be . . . perfect (remain faithful) (Gen. 17:1). We too have a responsibility in our covenant relationship with God. Jesus said: Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect (Matt. 5:48). Perfect means, among other things, "carry through," "develop." In biblical language it means: It is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful (I Cor. 4:2).

Thought for Today:

The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith (Gal. 5:22).
Christ Revealed:

As the Seed of Isaac, Jesus. . . . the Son of . . . Jacob, which was the Son of Isaac (Gen. 17:19; Luke 3:23-34; Heb. 11:18).
Word Studies:

16:6 hardly harshly; 16:7 fountain spring; 16:14 Beerlahairoi tell of the Living One who sees me; 16:16 fourscore 4 x 20 80; 17:1 be thou perfect live to please the Lord; 17:10 be circumcised a physical sign of accepting the Covenant of God; 17:20 beget the father of; 18:7 dress prepare; 18:12 am waxed have become; 18:20 very grievous severe; 18:24 Peradventure of by chance; 18:33 left communing finished speaking.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Iva Jo Swinsburg • Government Official: Rep. Frank Lucas (OK) • Country: Pakistan (146.5 million) in southern Asia • Major languages: Urdu and English • There is no freedom to convert Muslims to Christ. Pakistan is an Islamic republic • 72% Sunni Muslim; 20% Shi'a Muslim; 3% Ahmadiya; 2% Christian; 2% Hindu; .1% Other (Baha'i, Animist, Farsi, Buddhist) • Prayer Suggestion: Call upon the Lord, for He promises to answer you (Zech. 13:9).
Optional Reading: Matthew 6

Memory Verse for the Week: Genesis 1:1

[Judy Harder]

January 7, 2011 

Read Genesis 19 -- 21
Highlights:

The cities of Sodom and Gomorrah and their inhabitants destroyed by fire; Lot and his daughters escape; Abraham's lie to Abimelech; birth of Isaac; Hagar and Ishmael sent away; the agreement between Abraham and Abimelech.
Lot was wealthy and obviously had a prominent position in Sodom since he sat in the gate of Sodom where business and legal matters were conducted (Gen. 19:1). Lot associated with the people of Sodom because he could market his livestock, milk, cheese, etc., even though he was vexed with (troubled by) the filthy conversation (shameless conduct) of the wicked (II Pet. 2:7).

Our Creator has said: Thou shalt not lie with mankind, as with womankind, it is abomination. . . . Defile not yourselves in any of these things: for in all these the nations are defiled which I cast out before you. . . . I am the Lord your God (Lev. 22,24,30). The Scriptures denounce homosexuality for which Sodom was known. Since homosexuality is so detestable in the eyes of God, we should pray that those involved will repent and forsake this sin (I Cor. 6:9-11).

Sarah conceived, and bare Abraham a son in his old age, at the set time of which God had spoken to him (Gen. 21:2). Isaac, the miracle child God had promised, entered the family life of Abraham, Sarah, and Hagar the bondwoman. Hagar's son Ishmael soon revealed his true character through his contempt for Isaac. In the New Testament we read that Abraham had two sons, the one by a bondmaid, the other by a freewoman. . . . these are the two covenants (agreements); the one from the Mount Sinai, which gendereth (leads) to bondage, which is Agar. . . . Now we, brethren, as Isaac was, are the children of promise. But as then he that was born after the flesh persecuted him that was born after the Spirit, even so it is now (Gal. 4:22,24,28-29).

These two sons, Ishmael and Isaac, illustrate the dual nature of our lives. We are first born of the flesh (through human parents) (John 3:6), symbolized by Ishmael. But the moment a sinner believes in his heart that Jesus Christ died on the cross for his sins, repents of them, and confesses Christ as Savior and Lord of his life, to them gave He power to become the sons of God (1:12). This is symbolized by Isaac, the child of faith.

On the Day of Pentecost, Peter answered the people by saying: Repent, and be baptized . . . and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost (Spirit) (Acts 2:38; also Rom. 10:9-10; I John 3:1-2; 4:15). We do not become sinless but we are freed from the power of sin (Rom. 6:7). They that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections (passions) and lusts. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit (Gal. 5:24-25).

Thought for Today:

If we want our faith to grow, the Scripture is clear: Faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God (Rom. 10:17).
Christ Portrayed:

By Isaac, the promised son of the Covenant of God (Gen. 21:12). As a true son of faith, he submitted to Abraham, without hesitation, to being sacrificed, as did Christ to His Father. Christ the Only-begotten Son set us free from the Law by imparting to us, through the "born again" experience, a true desire to keep the Word of God through Christ who dwells within the true believer (Matt. 26:28; Mark 14:24; Luke 22:20; I Cor. 11:25; also Heb. 8:6; 12:24).
Word Studies:

19:1 at even in the evening; 19:2 tarry stay; 19:3 pressed upon urged; unleavened bread bread without yeast; 19:4 compassed surrounded; 19:5 know have homosexual relations with; 19:8 as is good in your eyes as you wish; shadow protection; 19:9 sojourn live temporarily; will needs be a judge keeps acting as our ruler; 19:11 smote defeated; 19:13 is waxen has grown; 19:14 mocked; 19:15 consumed destroyed; 19:16 without outside; 19:21 accepted thee shown favor to you; 19:22 be come thither arrive there; 19:25 overthrew devastated; 20:6 suffered permitted; 20:8 sore exceedingly; 20:16 he is to thee a covering of the eyes it is compensation for what I did; 21:3 Isaac he laughs; 21:9 mocking ridiculing; 21:11 grievous distressing; 21:12 hearken unto her voice agree to all that she asks; 21:15 spent; 21:16 over against in front of; 21:25 reproved complained/rebuked; 21:26 wot know; 21:27 covenant agreement.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Officials: Rep. Loretta Sanchez (CA) and Sen. John Thune (SD) • Country: Panama (3 million) in southern Central America • Major languages: Spanish and English • Limited religious freedom • 78% Roman Catholic; 12% Protestant; 5% Muslim; .1% Eastern Orthodox • Prayer Suggestion: Can you say you are ready for the Lord's coming (Mal. 3:2)?
Optional Reading: Matthew 7

Memory Verse for the Week: Genesis 1:1

[Judy Harder]

January 8, 2011   

Read Genesis 22 -- 24
Highlights:

Miraculous intervention is seen throughout today's reading because of obedience to God. Abraham faces the greatest test of his life; how would we respond (Gen. 22:2)? Trust Him: God will provide. . . . Jehovah-jireh (22:8,13-14). God picks the perfect wife in answer to prayer (24:48).
Abraham was called of God and is known for his great faith as well as his remarkable faithfulness to God. However, he experienced one severe trial after another. It was a test of faith when he left his father's house and the security of his home country to seek the land of promise. It was a test of faith when he arrived and there was a famine in the land and he felt it was necessary to go to Egypt to survive. It was a test of faith when Lot chose all the well-watered plains and left Abraham nothing but barren hills for grazing his herds. It was a test of faith when, as an old man, Abraham could not understand why God had not answered his prayer for a son to be his heir. What a life of struggles he had to endure! It was after these things that it was said: God did tempt (test the faith of) Abraham, and said unto him, Abraham: and he said, Behold, here I am. And He said, Take now thy son, thine only son Isaac, whom thou lovest, and get thee into the land of Moriah; and offer him there for a burnt offering (Gen. 22:1-2).

God did not intend to sanction human sacrifices, but His intent was to test Abraham's willingness to surrender to His will and His Word. Abraham obeyed that call with unwavering trust in God because he was convinced that God would be faithful to His promise that in Isaac shall thy seed be called (21:12).

We read this incident knowing the outcome and could easily overlook the deep distress which must have filled the heart of this godly man. Every time Abraham looked upon Isaac, he was reminded that Isaac was a special gift in answer to prayer. Thine only son, Isaac. We cannot conceive of a greater test than this heartbreaking command that God chose to test Abraham's faith (James 1:3).

It was a three-day journey of about 50 miles to Mount Moriah — uphill every step of the way. It is always "uphill" for those who walk by faith. The majority will remain in the valley under the shade of self-satisfaction, but it takes self-denial to gain the best blessings of God. The man of faith is not searching for an oasis on the way. His only concern will be to please God — to sacrifice everything — even life itself.

By faith Abraham, when he was tried, offered up Isaac: and he that had received the promises offered up his only begotten son (Heb. 11:17).

Thought for Today:

Through trials and suffering the Lord develops our faith (Gal. 5:22) and patience. God . . . will not suffer (permit) you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape (I Cor. 10:13).
Christ Revealed:

Isaac's submission to his father and his willingness to be offered (Gen. 22:7-10) illustrate Jesus, who submitted to His father and willingly offered His life as a sacrifice for our sins. I lay down (give up) My life. . . . No man taketh it from Me, but I lay it down of Myself (John 10:11-18).
Word Studies:

22:3 clave split; 22:12 fearest have reverential, heartfelt submission to; 22:14 Jehovah-jireh the Lord will provide; 22:17 seed descendants; gate place of authority and entrance to the city; 22:24 concubine secondary wife without inheritance rights; 23:6 sepulchres places of burial, graves, tombs; 24:5 peradventure that if; 24:8 oath sworn promise; 24:12 send me good speed grant me success; 24:14 damsel virgin maiden; 24:16 fair beautiful; known had sexual relations with; 24:21 held his peace observed her but kept quiet; to wit to as to know; prosperous successful; 24:25 provender food; 24:27 left destitute forsaken; 24:32 ungirded unloaded; 24:33 meat food; 24:53 raiment clothing; 24:57 inquire at her mouth met her make the decision; 24:60 possess the gate of victorious over; 24:62 well Lahairoi well of the Living One who sees me (see 16:14): 24:64 lighted off dismounted from.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Country: Papua New Guinea (5 million) in the southwestern Pacific • Major languages: 715 indigenous languages • Religious freedom • 64% Protestant; 33% Roman Catholic; 2% ancestor worship, belief in spirits, and witchcraft • Prayer Suggestion: Pray that God will move His people to give faithfully to His work (Mal. 3:8-10).
Optional Reading: Matthew 8

Memory Verse for the Week: Genesis 1:1

 

[Judy Harder]

January 9, 2011   

Read Genesis 25 -- 27
Highlights:

As the great patriarch Abraham dies, we meet Isaac's family — his wife Rebekah and their twin sons, Jacob and Esau. God reveals His plan for: (1) His people; (2) salvation (Gen. 25:23). Esau despised his birthright (25:32-33). God sends "Living Water" to resolve conflict (26:32-33). God said: I loved Jacob. And I hated Esau (Mal. 1:2-3).
Esau and Jacob were twin brothers, but Esau was born first and thereby became legal heir to the family birthright which included, among other things, being heir to the Covenant between God and Abraham. This birthright was a link in the line of descent through which the Promised Messiah was to come (Num. 24:17-19). In contrast with Esau, Jacob was a plain man, dwelling in tents (Gen. 25:27). The Hebrew word for plain is the same word translated in other Scripture as perfect, upright, undefiled. So the word plain refers to Jacob's character as a man of God. God records His highest praise and blessing for Jacob: The Lord hath chosen Jacob unto Himself (Ps. 135:4).

Esau came from the field, and he was faint: And Esau said to Jacob, Feed me . . . with that same red pottage (stew); for I am faint (Gen. 25: 29-30). Knowing the character of his brother, Jacob replied: Sell me this day thy birthright (25:31). Esau had no interest in spiritual things so he agreed, saying: I am at the point (about) to die: and what profit shall this birthright do to me? (25:32-34). Esau could not have been at the point to die by missing one meal, but he revealed how worthless he considered the birthright. Jacob purchased the birthright for what Esau thought it was worth.

It appears that Isaac's admiration for his worldly-minded son Esau caused him to ignore the prophecy that God had revealed to Rebekah before the twins' birth (25:23). Furthermore, Isaac chose to disregard Esau's sale of his birthright to Jacob (25:33-34).

After Isaac had conferred the Abrahamic Covenant on Jacob, Esau later came to receive a blessing. Isaac realized that Rebekah had thwarted his evil scheme. There is no hint that Isaac thought Rebekah did wrong. A short time later, he sent Jacob to seek a wife with his blessing (28:1-4). The Hebrew word Jacob is often translated "supplanter." One of the definitions of supplant is "to take the place of and serve as a substitute for, especially by reason of superior excellence."

To malign Jacob is to misinterpret the Word of God. The writer of Hebrews referred to Esau as a profane (godless) person (Hebrews 12:16).

Looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God . . . or profane (godless) person, as Esau, who for one morsel of meat (food) sold his birthright (Heb. 12:15-16).

Thought for Today:

The Kingdom of Heaven is like unto a merchant man, seekly goodly pearls: who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had, and bought it (Matt. 13:45-46).
Christ Revealed:

As the spiritual Seed that would bless all the nations of the earth (Gen. 26:4). Now to Abraham and his seed were the promises made. . . . not . . . as of many; but as of one . . . which is Christ (Gal. 3:16).
Word Studies:

25:6 concubines secondary wives without inheritance rights; 25:8 gave up the ghost died; 25:16 castles settlements; 25:21 intreated prayed earnestly; was intreated of him granted his prayer; 25:23 two nations the Israelites and the Edomites (36:9); 25:29 sod cooked, boiled; 26:3 Sojourn live temporarily; 26:8 sporting with showing loving affection to; 26:9 of a surety clearly; 26:10 lightly ignorantly, have lien have had sexual relations; 26:11 charged warned, commanded, ordered; 26:13 waxed became; 26:14 store household; 26:19 springing water running water, literally "living water." Jesus promised living water (John 4:10); 26:31 betimes barly; 27:15 goodly raiment choice clothes; 27:28 fatness best; 27:37 corn grain.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in honor of Bruce and Joyce Rutherford's anniversary • Government Official: Rep. Michael Capuano (MA) • Country: Paraguay (5 million) in southern South America • Major languages: Spanish and Guarani • Religious freedom • 96% Roman Catholic; 2% Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: Confess wrongs you have committed to the Lord and to those whom you have hurt; ask for forgiveness (Matt. 5:23-24).
Optional Reading: Matthew 9

Memory Verse for the Week: Deuteronomy 4:2

 

[Judy Harder]

January 10, 2011   

Read Genesis 28 -- 30
Highlights:

Be sure to grasp the incredible Truth found in the mighty Abrahamic Covenant (one of the greatest honors God ever gives). The Abrahamic Covenant confirmed to Jacob; vision of Jacob's ladder; journey to Haran; Jacob's marriages to Leah and to Rachel.
When Isaac realized that God had overruled his scheme to confer the God-ordained Abrahamic Covenant on Esau, who profained his birthright privileges, Isaac trembled very exceedingly (Gen. 27:33). He quickly conferred with Rebekah, not to accuse her of any wrongdoing, but to follow her God-inspired plan for Jacob's future (27:26—28:1,2). If Jacob were to marry an idol-worshiping woman, as Esau had done, Rebekah knew they would have failed God and said: What good shall my life do me? (27:46). Then Isaac called Jacob, and blessed him, and charged him . . . Thou shalt not take a wife of the daughters of Canaan. . . . Go to Padan-aram . . . take . . . a wife from . . . the daughters of Laban thy mother's brother. And God Almighty . . . give thee the blessing of Abraham, to thee, and to thy seed with thee; that thou mayest inherit the land wherein thou art a stranger, which God gave unto Abraham (28:1-4)

The remarkable blessings of God upon Jacob began on his first night away from home. Without map or companion, but according to the exact plan of God, Jacob left home on his journey of more than 500 miles and arrived safely in Padan-aram. God marvelously guided him to Rachel and the home of his mother's father; and (to) take thee a wife from thence of the daughters of Laban thy mother's brother. And God Almighty bless thee (28:2-3). Jacob received a warm welcome when he arrived at their home.

You may, like Jacob, experience many hardships in life. But all who live to please the Lord will view their choice of marriage partners, activities, and workplace as opportunities to prepare them to do the will of God.

This can be seen in Jacob's beloved son Joseph, who was sold as a slave by his brothers and suffered much for 20 years, but later he confidently said to them: Ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto (for) good (50:20).

One of the greatest comforts all of us will ever have is the assurance 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:

And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus (Phil. 4:7).
Christ Portrayed:

By Joseph who was born (Gen. 30:23-24) to save and preserve his people (50:20). Jesus was born to offer eternal life to all mankind (41:56-57).
Word Studies:

28:1 charged commanded; 28:11 lighted upon came to; 28:15 keep thee catch over you with care; 28:17 How dreadful is this place what an awesome, wonderful, holy place; 28:18 poured oil upon anointed; 28:19 Bethel house of God; 29:3 mouth opening; 29:7 high barly in the; 29:12 brother relative; 29:17 tender eyed unattractive; 29:25 beguiled received; 29:26 It must not be so done it is not customary; 29:31 hated unloved; opened her womb unabled her to have children; 30:18 hire reward; 30:23 reproach humiliation, disgrace; 30:28 appoint came; 30:36 journey betwixt between; 30:37 pilled peeled.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Staff: Beth Carlton • Government Officials: Rep. Roy Blunt (MO), Rep. Leonard Boswell (IA), Rep. Lois Capps (CA), Sen. Mark Pryor (AR), Rep. Bill Shuster (PA), Rep. Christopher Van Hollen, Jr. (MD), and Rep. Greg Walden (OR) • 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: Pray for those who have hurt you (Matt. 5:44).
Optional Reading: Matthew 10

Memory Verse for the Week: Deuteronomy 4:2

[Judy Harder]

January 11, 2011   

Read Genesis 31 -- 33
Highlights:

An exciting climax to the personal problems and struggles Jacob has encountered in his life, and thus far, overcome. Laban and his sons are jealous of Jacob's blessings. Jacob flees; the covenant between Laban and Jacob; Jacob's intense wrestling in prayer; God changes Jacob's name to Israel. Esau and 400 men are coming to meet Jacob (Gen. 32:3-21; 33:1).
Laban and his sons eventually became hostile and envious of Jacob's prosperity. They assumed that Jacob had employed unfair manipulation to gain their father's riches. However, Jacob said to his wives: And ye know that with all my power I have served your father (Gen. 31:6; comp. 31:7,14,16). Jacob foresaw the coming conflict and, in prayer, the Lord said unto Jacob, Return unto the land of thy fathers . . . and I will be with thee (31:3). Jacob continued as God had said to return unto the land of thy fathers. But when he discovered that his brother, Esau, was coming to meet him with 400 men, he could see no visible hope of survival for himself and his family.

Fearing the upcoming meeting with Esau, this godly and humble servant of the Lord spent the night alone with God, earnestly praying until God conferred on Jacob the highest honor to any man in Old Testament history: Thy name shall be called no more Jacob, but Israel (Prince of God): for as a prince hast thou power with God and with men, and hast prevailed (overcome) (32:28). Through the centuries, the people of God would be called by his name — Israelites. Through his son Judah, Jesus the Messiah was promised (49:10).

Jacob fully depended upon the mercy of God to deliver him and his family from the overwhelming odds of 400 armed men. God even changed his name — no longer Jacob, but now Israel. This profound name literally means, a prince who has power with God. Jacob's descendants cannot be numbered (32:12). No other person in Hebrew history has received such a distinguished name.

Jacob's prayer is a blueprint for praying. He was honest and specific with the Lord and claimed the promise of God, even as he wrestled with the angel (32:9-12,24; Hos. 12:4). Jacob prayed for deliverance and God answered his prayer and sent angels to protect him. As he had been delivered from Laban, he was also delivered from Esau and his 400 men. Jacob illustrates the power available to a diligent intercessor.

Through Jacob's life we learn that God will train us in the school of difficulties and tragedies to develop our faith in Him. Let us be conscious of His presence with assurance that He is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think (Eph. 3:20).

Thought for Today:

Like Jacob we can be overcomers because Jesus promised: In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world (John 16:33). He that overcometh shall inherit all things (Rev. 21:7).
Christ Revealed:

As the Angel (Messenger) of God who guides and provides our necessities (Gen. 31:11-13; Matt. 6:33; John 10:30).
Word Studies:

31:2 not toward him not favorable; 31:7 suffered permitted; 31:15 counted of him considered by him as; devoured also our money spent the money he got for us as dowries; 31:18 of his getting which he acquired; 31:19 images household idols; 31:30 longedst after are homesick for; 31:31 peradventure perhaps; 31:34 furniture saddle; 31:36 wroth angry; chode with reprimanded; 31:50 afflict mistreat; 31:52 over beyond; 32:8 smite attack; 32:10 bands camps; 32:12 seed descendants; 32:13 came to his hand he had received; 32:15 kine kows; 32:16 drove herd; 32:21 company camp; 32:31 halted imped; 33:2 hindermost; 33:13 tender meak, frail; 33:14 softly slowly; 33:17 booths temporary shelters.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by A Family That Loves Jesus • Staff: Jennifer Cunningham • Government Official: Rep. Michael Turner (OH) • 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: Pray in secret before God, not seeking human praise (Matt. 6:6).
Optional Reading: Matthew 11

Memory Verse for the Week: Deuteronomy 4:2

 

[Judy Harder]

January 12, 2011   

Read Genesis 34 -- 36
Highlights:

Don't miss the real reason Dinah was disgraced; Jacob's return to Bethel; Abrahamic Covenant renewed with Jacob; Jacob told to return to Bethel (the House of God), but stops at Succoth; When we're out of the perfect will of God we're susceptible to sinful harm (chap. 34); The household "cleans up," throws out strange gods, heads home, and worships God (Gen. 35:1-7).; Jacob has a famous name change! (35:9-15); Rachel's death.
After Jacob had made peace with Laban and then with Esau, he continued on his journey to Bethel and completed the vows (promises) which he had made with God twenty years earlier (Gen. 28:20-21). But just three miles from the promised land, he arrived at the well-watered plains of Succoth with the convenient markets of Shechem nearby, and his family became friends with the Canaanites. He built him an house (33:17). . . . And he erected there an altar (33:20). Ten years passed swiftly. During this time Jacob's neglect to fulfill the will of God led to his daughter's friendship with Shechem, the prince of this Canaanite country where a series of sinful events took place.

Jacob realized that drastic changes were needed in his family and he again looked to God. And God said unto Jacob, Arise, go up to Bethel, and dwell there: and make there an altar unto God, that appeared unto thee when thou fleddest from the face of Esau thy brother. Then Jacob said unto his household, and to all that were with him, Put away the strange gods that are among you, and be clean, and change your garments: And let us arise, and go up to Bethel (35:1-3).

Three things that Jacob said to his family have a parallel for Christians. First he said: Put away the strange Gods — a reminder that the old habits of sin must be forsaken. Then he said: Be clean, and change your garments — a reminder to follow . . . holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord (Heb. 12:14). Thirdly, he worshiped God. We are to worship only God: Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and Him only shalt thou serve (Luke 4:. His will must be our priority at all times.

When considering our earthly needs, there is a great danger of overlooking the will of God. This often results in worldly attractions controlling our families' hearts and often leads to heartbreaking consequences. Difficult circumstances will remind us to renew our relationship with God on His terms. For the love of money (even for your necessities) is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows (I Tim. 6:10).

Thought for Today:

The first step of a relationship with God is obedience to His Word.
Christ Revealed:

As God Almighty, El Shaddai, the All-Sufficient One (Gen. 35:11). Jesus is the Lord . . . which is . . . the Almighty (Rev. 1:.
Word Studies:

34:2 defiled raped; 34:3 his soul clave unto his heart was set on; (see 34:4,12); 34:7 wrought folly in brought dishonor and shame into; 34:19 deferred not did not delay; 34:20 gate place of administration; 34:27 spoiled plundered; 35:1 Bethel house of God; 35:2 strange false; 35:12 seed eb> descendants; 36:7 bear support; 36:15 dukes chiefs of the tribes.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in honor of Rick Hash • Government Official: Rep. Sheila Jackson-Lee (TX) • Country: Poland (38.6 million) in eastern Europe • Major language: Polish • Religious freedom • 96% Roman Catholic (including Greek Catholic — .31%); 1.56% Orthodox; .5% Protestant; .01% Muslim; .01% Far Eastern Religions; 1.7% Other • Prayer Suggestion: Don't try to impress others with your prayers; pray about whatever is on your heart (Matt. 6:7-8).
Optional Reading: Matthew 12

Memory Verse for the Week: Deuteronomy 4:2