Bible Pathways

[Judy Harder]

January 23, 2011   

Read Exodus 17 -- 19
Highlights:

The Israelites are called a peculiar treasure (Ex. 19:5), which means they are precious to the Lord. Thirst causes murmuring against Moses; water from the rock; Amalek defeated; Jethro's advice accepted; God speaks on Mount Sinai.
As they continued their journey toward the promised land, the Israelites faced another test of their dependence upon God. All the congregation . . . journeyed . . . according to the Commandment of the Lord, and pitched (encamped) in Rephidim: and there was no water for the people to drink. And the people thirsted there for water; and the people murmured (grumbled) against Moses, and said, Wherefore (Why) is this that thou hast brought us up out of Egypt, to kill us . . . with thirst?. . . And he called the name of the place Massah (Tempting God), and Meribah (contention, complaint), because of the chiding (faultfinding) of the children of Israel, and because they tempted the Lord, saying, Is the Lord among us, or not? (Ex. 17:1,3,7).

The wilderness journey again and again exposed the Israelites' refusal to trust the Lord. God has warned us: Harden not your hearts, as in the provocation (rebellion), in the day of temptation (testing) in the wilderness: When your fathers tempted Me, proved Me, and saw My works forty years. . . . I was grieved with that generation, and said, They do alway err (disobey) in their heart (Heb. 3:8-10).

Israel's release from bondage and their wilderness journey illustrate the Christian's pilgrimage through life. We should learn from their experiences to trust God even when anticipated resources are not available. Often we are tempted to blame others for our problems and failures. Frustration on the job, emotional stress, discontent, finding fault, hatred, jealousy, fits of anger — these are all evidence of the self-centered life demanding its own way. Even more serious, it is an expression of unbelief in the wisdom, competence, and goodness of God. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire (mature), wanting (lacking) nothing (James 1:4).

The key to peace of mind and overcoming all life's problems is confidence in God and in His Word. The Christian is admonished to express faith when ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations (various testings): That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ (I Pet. 1:6-7).

Thought for Today:

The earth is the Lord's and the fulness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein (Ps. 24:1).
Christ Revealed:

As the Rock and the Water that came forth from it (Ex. 17:6). They drank of that spiritual Rock that followed (accompanied) them: and that Rock was Christ (I Cor. 10:4; compare John 7:38).
Word Studies:

17:2 did chide with angrily criticized; tempt test; 17:12 heavy too tired from holding up his hands; stayed up supported; 17:13 discomfited defeated; 17:15 Jehovah-nissi the Lord is my banner; 18:7 obeisance an expression of respect; 18:8 travail hardships they endured; 19:4 bare sustained; 19:5 peculiar treasure exclusive, special possession; 19:16 trembled were terrified; 19:21 charge admonish.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Staff: Mike Moore • Government Officials: Rep. Joe Baca (CA), Sen. Thomas Carper (DE), and Sen. Frank Lautenberg (NJ) • Country: Serbia and Montenegro (11 million) on the Balkan Peninsula in southeastern Europe • Major language: Serbo-Croatian • Religious conflict • 41% Serbian/Montenegrin/Macedonian Orthodox; 33% Catholic; 11% Muslim; 1% Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: Seek the Lord in times of trouble (Matt. 8:24-25).
Optional Reading: Matthew 23

Memory Verse for the Week: Proverbs 30:5

 

[Judy Harder]

January 24, 2011   

Read Exodus 20 -- 22
Highlights:

Ten Commandments and other laws and regulations given. The Law is a mirror that reveals with absolute accuracy and authority what we are and what we should be. God provided His perfect standard for His people to live by.
The Ten Commandments are of utmost importance since they were written with the finger of God (Ex. 31:19). God spake all these words, saying, I am the Lord thy God. . . . Thou shalt have no other gods before Me. Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of any thing . . . in heaven above, or . . . the earth. . . . Thou shalt not take the Name of the Lord thy God in vain; for the Lord will not hold him guiltless that taketh His Name in vain. Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy. . . . Honour thy father and thy mother. . . . Thou shalt not kill. . . . commit adultery. . . . steal. . . . bear false witness against thy neighbour. . . . covet (20:1-4,7-17). The Ten Commandments are essential, basic principles for the spiritual and moral conduct of mankind. Without them we have no standard of right and wrong. The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked (Jer. 17:9).

We are warned that it is wrong to steal — whether it is done by shoplifting, cheating on income tax, failing to give an employer a full day's work, or to tithe one's income to God. If I love my neighbor, I will not steal his property, commit adultery with his wife, or commit fornication with his daughter. I will protect and respect his loved ones because they belong to God, who commanded: Love thy neighbour as thyself (Matt. 22:39).

Christ revealed that: By the deeds of the Law there shall no flesh be justified in His sight: for by the Law is the knowledge of sin. But now the righteousness of God without the Law is manifested, being witnessed by the Law and the prophets; Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe (Rom. 3:20-22).

Many have thought they would get to heaven by being good; but they are unwilling to recognize that all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God (3:23). If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness (I John 1:9).

If a man love Me, he will keep My words: and My Father will love him, and We will come unto him, and make Our abode with him (John 14:23).

Thought for Today:

Great peace have they which love Thy Law: and nothing shall offend them (Ps. 119:165).
Christ Revealed:

The perfection of Christ is revealed through the Ten Commandments, for He kept all of them (Ex. 20:1-17). He was perfect and without sin (Heb. 4:15).
Word Studies:

20:10 Sabbath day of rest to honor God; 20:13 kill murder; 21:8 strange nation foreign people; 21:14 presumptuously willfully, overstepping due bounds; with guile treacherously; 21:19 be quit be acquitted, blameless; 21:22 her fruit depart from her the suffer a miscarriage; 22:2 breaking up breaking in; smitten struck with a fatal blow; 22:16 endow take a marriage payment for, pay a dowry for; 22:21 vex wrongfully treat; 22:24 wax become; 22:25 usurer one who loans with interest; 22:31 holy men unto Me special people consecrated to My service.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in memory of a good friend, Arlene Lindelien • Staff: Dan Murton • Government Officials: Sec. Shaun Donovan (Dept. of Housing & Urban Development), Rep. Bart Gordon (TN), and Rep. Mike Thompson (CA) • Country: Seychelles (79,000) a group of islands in the Indian Ocean between Madagascar and India • Major languages: English and French • Religious freedom • 89% Roman Catholic; 8% Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: Pray the Lord of the harvest to send workers to harvest for Him (Matt. 9:38).
Optional Reading: Matthew 24

Memory Verse for the Week: Proverbs 30:5

[Judy Harder]

January 25, 2011   

Read Exodus 23 -- 25
Highlights:

Laws instituted; three annual Feasts (Festivals) required, which must be kept; angel promised for a guide; instructions for Tabernacle furnishings. Confirming the Covenant (Ex. 24:4-8). God desires to dwell with His children, to commune with them (25:8,22).
How easy but sinful it is to spread gossip! Of all sins, some of the vilest are committed with the tongue. Thou shalt not raise a false report: put not thine hand with the wicked to be an unrighteous witness. Thou shalt not follow a multitude to do evil; neither shalt thou speak in a cause to decline after many to wrest (pervert) judgment (Ex. 23:1-2). This means more than repeating gossip or slander. The Hebrew word also means that a person should refuse to even listen to slander. A talebearer revealth secrets: but he that is of a faithful spirit concealeth the matter (Prov. 11:13).

God alone determines what is acceptable conduct as well as acceptable worship to Him. God says that anyone who uttereth a slander (repeats an ill report or accusation), is a fool (10:18) and the one who repeateth a matter separateth very (close) friends (17:9).

Slander is perhaps the easiest, most subtle sin a person commits; yet, it is so wicked that it is listed with the seven most abominable sins that God hates: These six things doth the Lord hate: yea, seven are an abomination unto Him: A proud look, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood, An heart that deviseth wicked imaginations, feet that be swift in running to mischief, A false witness that speaketh lies, and he that soweth discord among brethren (6:16-19).

By gossiping, some have not only destroyed the good reputation of others but their own usefulness to God as well. The Bible says: If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this man's religion is vain. . . . The tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity . . . it defileth the whole body . . . and it is set on fire of (from) hell. . . . it is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison. . . . Who is a wise man and endued with knowledge among you? let him shew out of a good conversation his works with meekness of wisdom. . . . the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy (James 1:26; 3:6,8,13,17).

Thought for Today:

These . . . things doth the Lord hate . . . he that soweth discord among brethren (Prov. 6:16,19).
Christ Revealed:

As the Ark of the Covenant (Testimony). The wood demonstrated His humanity; the gold overlay represented His deity. Only through His blood sprinkled on the Ark could one receive forgiveness. God dwelt above the Mercy Seat (Ex. 25:10-22). Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by His own blood He (Jesus) entered in once into the Holy Place, having obtained eternal redemption for us (Heb. 9:12).
Word Studies:

23:2 neither . . . decline after many to wrest judgement won't side with the majority to pervert justice; 23:5 forbear to help him refuse to help him; 23:8 gift bribe; 23:13 be circumspect pay strict attention; 23:23 cut them off utterly destroy them; 23:31 bounds boundaries; sea of the Philistines Mediterranean Sea; the river the Euphrates River; 24:11 laid not his hand did not strike down; 25:22 commune speak.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Staff: Pam Pendergrast • Government Officials: Gov. Chet Culver (IA) and Rep. Bill Pascrell, Jr. (NJ) • Country: Sierra Leone (5 million) in western Africa • Major language: English • Increasing restrictions on Christian work in some areas • 50% belief in river spirits, medicine men, and witchcraft; 39% Muslim; 7% Protestant; 2% Roman Catholic • Prayer Suggestion: Pray for the Lord to give you the right words to share Christ with others (Matt. 10:18-20).
Optional Reading: Matthew 25

Memory Verse for the Week: Proverbs 30:5

 

[Judy Harder]

January 26, 2011   

Read Exodus 26 -- 28
Highlights:

Directions given for constructing the Tabernacle, court, furniture, and enclosure; plans for the Altar; Aaron's priestly garments; plans for the ephod. Notice the progression from suffering, blood, and death — to beauty, holiness, and the glory of God in these chapters.
The high priest was anointed as the mediator between God and the nation of Israel to make atonement for them so that they could be reconciled to God. He took the atoning sacrificial blood of animals before the Lord into the Holy of Holies and sprinkled it on the Mercy Seat. Thus, he foreshadowed the blood of Jesus Christ His (God's) Son (that) cleanseth us from all sin (I John 1:7). God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto Himself (II Cor. 5:17-19). Just think! His blood alone (representing His life) washed away sins.

The inscription on the high priest's holy garments and his forehead was: HOLINESS TO THE LORD (Ex. 28:36; 39:30). It reminded the people that their Creator was a Holy God who loved them (the sinners) and provided a way for them to enjoy continuing fellowship with Him. Before the priests could intercede on behalf of the people, all their clothing had to be specially made. Only then was Moses told: Thou . . . shalt anoint them (Aaron and his sons), and consecrate them, . .. . that they may minister unto Me (28:41). They were representatives of God.

Every person except Jesus has a sinful nature, even the high priest. The best efforts of all mankind, as well as our thoughts, are a mixture of good and bad and therefore imperfect. But Christ being come an High Priest of good things to come, by a greater and more perfect Tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building; Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by His own blood He entered in once into the Holy Place, having obtained eternal redemption for us (Heb. 9:11-12). In Christ, our High Priest, we see the Perfect, Absolutely Sinless One (7:25-27).

In writing to my little children (the teachable Christians) (I John 2:1), the Apostle John said: If we walk in the light, as He is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanseth us from all sin. If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves. . . . If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned, we make Him a liar, and His Word is not in us (I John 1:7-10).

Thought for Today:

When a man's ways please the Lord, He maketh even his enemies to be at peace with him (Prov. 16:7).
Christ Revealed:

Through the Brasen Altar, upon which the Sin Offering was burned (Ex. 27:1-8; Lev. 4:1-35). Jesus' offering of Himself as the final sacrifice was the fulfillment of all Old Testament altars as well as all sacrificial offerings. Jesus Christ. . . . In whom we have redemption through His blood (Eph. 1:5-7; John 1:29,36; Col. 1:14; Heb. 9:12).
Word Studies:

26:1 cunning work skillful workmanship; 26:2 have one measure be the same measurement; 28:2 holy garments rod-appointed clothing was required to participate in worship services; 28:8 curious girdle skillfully made belt; 28:43 bear not iniquity not be guilty of sin.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Officials: Rep. Xavier Becerra (CA), Rep. Kevin McCarty (CA), and Rep. Albio Sires (NJ) • Staff: Dr. John A. Hash • Country: Singapore (4 million) in Southeast Asia • Major languages: Chinese and Malay • Religious freedom • 54% Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, Chinese Traditional Religion; 15% Muslim; 9% Protestant; 4% Catholic; 3% Hindu; .5% Sikh; .2% Baha'i; 14.3% None/Other • Prayer Suggestion: Unite with others in prayer; God will bring your request to pass (Matt. 18:19-20).
Optional Reading: Matthew 26

Memory Verse for the Week: Proverbs 30:5

 

[Judy Harder]

January 27, 2011   

Read Exodus 29 -- 31

Highlights:

Notice how precisely each detail is given of the Tabernacle and the clothes of the high priest. The Lord is also concerned with each detail of our lives. The rules and sacrifices for consecrating the priests; continual Burnt Offering; Altar of Incense; the ransom of souls; the holy anointing oil; Sabbath regulations. Moses receives two tables of stone. Written by the finger of God (Ex. 31:18).
The priests who ministered in the Tabernacle had to be cleansed before entering. The Lord spake unto Moses . . . make a Laver (tub, basin) of Brass, and his foot (base) also of brass . . . put it between the Tabernacle . . . and the Altar, and . . . put water therein. For Aaron and his sons shall wash their hands and their feet thereat (Ex. 30:17-19).

After a priest had washed his hands and feet at the Laver, which provided cleansing from the activities of life, he then was qualified to enter the Tabernacle through a heavy linen veil which was the only entrance into the Holy Place.

On the right was the Table of Shewbread with its 12 loaves of unleavened bread sprinkled with incense. The name Shewbread suggests more than just bodily nourishment. It provides spiritual insight that is not obtainable anywhere else. The Shewbread is symbolic of Christ, who said: I am that Bread of Life. . . . the Living Bread which came down from heaven: if any man eat of this Bread, he shall live for ever (John 6:48,51; 6:29-38; 12:24). Just as physical food is assimilated to sustain our physical lives, so too, as we continue to read the Word of God which is the Bread of Life, the Holy Spirit uses it to enlighten and then transform our lives. Laying aside all malice, and all guile (deceit), and hypocrisies, and envies, and all evil speakings, As newborn babes, desire the sincere (unadulterated, pure) milk of the Word, that ye may grow thereby (I Pet. 2:1-2).

On the left was the seven-branched Candlestick made of solid beaten gold. Its seven lamps burned continually with pure olive oil. It was the only source of light in the Holy Place and that light fell on the Shewbread, the only other item in the Holy Place (Lev. 24:2-4). There were no windows for light from the world.

God has provided just one Book — the Holy Bible — as the source of Light for understanding His will. It is written: Thy Word is a Lamp unto my feet, and a Light unto my path. . . . The entrance of Thy words giveth Light; it giveth understanding unto the simple (Ps. 119:105,130; Prov. 6:23).

Christ declared: I am The Light of the World: he that followeth Me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have The Light of Life (John 8:12).

Thought for Today:

Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on Thee: because he trusteth in Thee (Is. 26:3).
Christ Revealed:

Through the Laver, Christ is revealed as both the Container and the Dispenser of Living Water (Ex. 30:18; John 4:10). Jesus . . . cried, saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto Me, and drink. . . . ye are clean through the Word which I have spoken unto you (7:37, 15:3; compare I Cor. 10:4).
Word Studies:

29:2 unleavened bread bread without yeast, a symbol of Christ as the sinless offering; 29:17 unto on top of; 29:18 sweet savour pleasant fragrance, acceptance; 29:27 heaved set aside; 29:28 statute perpetual obligation; 29:41 meat grain, meal; 30:3 crown molding; 30:18 laver wash basin; 30:21 seed descendants; 30:25 apothecary perfume maker; 30:28 his foot its base; 30:33 cut off excluded; 31:6 are wise hearted have understanding hearts.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Officials: Rep. John Mica (FL), Chief Justice John Roberts, and Rep. Zach Space (OH) • Country: Slovakia (5 million) central Europe • Major languages: Slovak and Hungarian • Religious freedom • 60% Roman Catholic; 8% Protestant; 4% Orthodox • Prayer Suggestion: Remember, what is impossible with men is possible with God (Matt. 19:26).
Optional Reading: Matthew 27

Memory Verse for the Week: Proverbs 30:5

[Judy Harder]

January 28, 2011   

Read Exodus 32 -- 34
Highlights:

Moses delayed on Mount Sinai; Aaron's golden calf; its destruction; death of 3,000 Israelites; The Law renewed; the Covenant of God; three Feasts.
Moses was on Mount Sinai when God gave him the two Tables of Testimony, Tables of stone, written with the finger of God (Ex. 31:18). At the same time, something tragic was taking place at the base of the mountain. When the people saw that Moses delayed to come down out of the mount, the people gathered themselves together unto Aaron, and said unto him, Up, make us gods, which shall go before us; for as for this Moses, the man that brought us up out of the land of Egypt, we wot (know) not what is become of him (32:1). It didn't take Aaron long to submit to their sinful demands and to make a golden calf and he built an altar before it. . . . And they rose up early on the morrow, and offered burnt offerings, and brought peace offerings (32:2-6).

A true Burnt Offering was a delight to the Lord since it symbolized full surrender to Him; but these idolatrous sacrifices were an abomination. The people were attempting to combine worship of the True God with the worship of idols.

Returning to the camp, Moses saw how quickly the Israelites had corrupted themselves (become apostate) (32:7). Did they think that a golden calf, which they could see, was a better object of worship than the invisible, yet ever-present God? Had they turned to Apis, an Egyptian god in the form of a bull? Only six weeks before, the whole congregation had sworn submission and obedience to God as their King, saying: All that the Lord hath spoken we will do (19:.

The worship of false gods, the impulse of human desires, leads to irresponsible, immoral conduct. Let us compare the Israelites' sins with our own behavior. Most Christians would reject man-made idols. But, think about how easily money, possessions, talents, hobbies, and success become an obsession or idol for many. Centuries later, the Apostle Paul spoke of those who, although they knew God, they glorified Him not as God, neither were thankful; but (their worship) became vain (foolish, worthless) in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened (Rom. 1:21).

The golden calf stands as a symbol of human intellect that devises its own system of worship excluding, or added to, the Word of God. The world admires the independent person who controls his own behavior. We must not be like Israel that rejoiced in the works of their own hands (Acts 7:41-43).

Thought for Today:

Depart from the evil, and do good: seek peace, and pursue it (Ps. 34:14).
Christ Revealed:

As the One who is ever-present. My presence shall go with thee, and I will give thee rest (peace) (Ex. 33:14). He hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee (Heb. 13:5; compare Matt. 11:28; John 14:27).
Word Studies:

32:7 corrupted themselves behaved sinfully; 32:9 stiffnecked willfully disobedient; 32:12 mischief evil intent; repent of denounce; 32:14 repented was moved with compassion and turned from; 32:20 strawed scattered; 32:25 naked out of control; made them naked allowed them to sin; 32:34 will visit will inflict punishment; 32:35 plagued the people paused them to suffer; 34:10 terrible thing that I will do amazing, awesome, feaful act of God; 34:12 be for a snare in the midst of thee drove to be your ruin; 34:13 groves places of idol worship; 34:17 molten gods metal idols; 34:19 all that openeth the matrix the firstborn, all that are first to come out of the womb; firstling firstborn; 34:21 in earing time at plowing time; 34:26 seethe a kid took a young goat; 34:27 after the tenor of according to.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Officials: Rep. Brian Bilbray (CA), Rep. Linda Sánchez (CA), Sen. Jeanne Shaheen (NH), and Rep. Bennie Thompson (MS) • Country: Slovenia (2 million) in southeastern Europe • Major languages: Slovenian and Serbo-Croatian • Freedom of religion • 81% Roman Catholic; 1% Muslim • Prayer Suggestion: Pray with great faith and the Lord will answer (Matt. 21:22).
Optional Reading: Matthew 28

Memory Verse for the Week: Proverbs 30:5

 

[Judy Harder]

January 29, 2011   

Read Exodus 35 -- 37
Highlights:

Freewill offerings for the Tabernacle; construction of the Tabernacle; the Ark; Mercy Seat; Table of Shewbread; Candlestick (Lampstand); Altar of Incense.
The Tabernacle and all its furniture was constructed according to the fashion thereof which was shewed thee in the mount (Ex. 26:30). Nothing was added, altered, or left out. And every wise hearted among you shall come, and make all that the Lord hath commanded (35:10-11).

The Tabernacle was more than a worship center. Its design and order of worship were meant to teach Israel the meaning of the Covenant made at Sinai. Furthermore, it was a means whereby the Holy God could fellowship with sinful man through its sacrificial system. It was further designed to lead the believer into the Lord's presence undefiled, with a heart, thoughts, and motives to please Him. The Tabernacle and every item were symbolic of Jesus Christ's life, ministry, and our relationship with Him.

The Altar of Incense was made . . . of shittim (acacia) wood. . . . and. . . . a crown (moulding) of gold round about. . . . And he (Bezaleel) made the holy anointing oil, and the pure incense (Ex. 37:25-26,29). Moses was told to put it before the vail that is by the Ark of the Testimony (Covenant), before the Mercy Seat that is over the Testimony, where I will meet with thee. . . . Aaron shall burn thereon sweet incense every morning. . . . a perpetual incense before the Lord throughout your generations (30:6-8).

The priests were permitted in the Holy Place, but only the High Priest could enter the Holy of Holies once a year on the Day of Atonement. In front of the veil was the golden Altar of Incense which was much smaller than the Brazen Altar.

The Altar of Incense was also symbolic of Christ our High Priest, who is constantly interceding for us not only when we pray but also by His constant watchful care (John 17:1-26; Heb. 7:25).

Each morning, Aaron the high priest would refill the lamps with pure olive oil and burn incense upon the Altar. He would take a coal of fire from the Brazen Altar and place it on the Altar of Incense, and then add the incense for a sweet fragrance that ascended toward heaven day and night. God alone was the source of fire on both of the Altars (Lev. 9:24).

None of the "mixed multitude" could enter the one gate to this enclosure — only a true Israelite. Jesus, our Savior, said: I am The Door: by Me if any man enter in, he shall be saved. . . . I am The Way, The Truth, and The Life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by Me (John 10:9; 14:6).

Thought for Today:

But the meek shall inherit the earth; and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace (Ps. 37:11).
Christ Revealed:

Through the Candlestick (Ex. 35:14). Christ is The Light of the world (John 1:6-9; 8:12; 9:5; compare Luke 1:78-79).
Word Studies:

35:10 wise hearted craftsman with a heart for the Lord; 35:32 curious skillful.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Officials: Rep. Paul Ryan (WI) and Rep. Lee Terry (NE) • Country: Solomon Islands (455,000) in the southwestern Pacific • Major languages: 120 indigenous languages • Religious freedom • 66% Protestant; 17% Roman Catholic; 4% spirit worship, ancestor worship, and sorcery • Prayer Suggestion: Continually watch and pray so that you won't yield to temptation in a moment of weakness (Matt. 26:41).
Optional Reading: Mark 1

Memory Verse for the Week: Proverbs 30:5

[Judy Harder]

Read Exodus 38 -- 39
Highlights: Altar of Burnt Offering; the Tabernacle courtyard; all priests' garments.

At Mount Sinai, the Tabernacle was completed according to all the instructions the Lord commanded Moses: Thus was all the work of the Tabernacle . . . finished. . . . and all his furniture . . .The Ark of the Testimony . . . and the Mercy Seat (Ex. 39:32-35). The Ark of the Testimony (25:22) is also called the Ark of the Covenant (Num. 10:33). It contained the Ten Commandments, and later Moses wrote the Book of the Law and had it placed inside the Ark of the Covenant (Deut. 31: 9-26). This was the Covenant between God and Israel. The Ark was a wooden chest overlaid with gold, both inside and out. The Ark was a type of Jesus the Messiah, the Son of God, who alone can atone for sin. The wood represented His human nature, as foretold by Isaiah: He shall grow up before Him as a tender plant, and as a root out of a dry ground (Is. 53:2). The gold represented His divine nature, for He is both fully God and fully man. The Ark was made from the wood of the acacia tree which grew in the deserts, symbols of the barren world system.

The "lid" of the Ark was made of pure gold and was called the Mercy Seat. It covered the Law that had been placed in the Ark. All have sinned, and come short of the glory of God (Rom. 4:23)., but Christ, the sinless Son of God offered Himself as the only acceptable substitute and thus provided a perfect atonement for our sins. His perfect atonement is represented by the Mercy Seat. Jesus also became our High Priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God (Heb. 4:14).

The Ark was behind the veil inside the Holy of Holies. Without the Presence of the Lord above the Ark, all the services of the Tabernacle would have been meaningless.

On the Day of Atonement, the high priest sprinkled the blood of an innocent goat on the Mercy Seat, then in front of it seven times (Lev. 16:14). The number seven is symbolic of the perfect salvation and forgiveness of sins which would later be made possible through Jesus Christ.

As you prayerfully read the Word of God daily and worship the Lord, His indwelling presence will bring meaning to your life. The Law provides the "knowledge" of sin, but it cannot provide the "forgiveness" of sin (Gal. 2:16; 3:11). The Law was given by Moses, but grace and Truth came by Jesus Christ (John 1:17). Jesus is the One in whom we have redemption through His blood, even the forgiveness of sins (Col. 1:14).

Thought for Today:

Abstain from all appearance of evil (I Thess. 5:22).
Christ Revealed:

Through the Golden Altar and its incense — representing prayers going up to heaven (Ex. 39:38; also Rev. 5:8; 8:3-4). Christ prayed for us. Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on Me through their word (John 17:20).
Word Studies:

39:2 ephod high priest's outer garment, apron; 39:15 wreathen work braided cords; 39:20 curious intricately woven; 39:39 laver large basin used for washing before entering the Tabernacle; foot stand, base.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Officials: Gov. John Baldacci (ME) and Rep. Frank Wolf (VA) • Country: Somalia (7 million) on the Horn of Africa • Major languages: Somali and Arabic • Islam is officially favored and all other religions are opposed • 99.8% Muslim; .1% Christian • Prayer Suggestion: Pray in faith and the Lord will answer (Mark 11:24).
Optional Reading: Mark 2

Memory Verse for the Week: Hosea 4:6

[Judy Harder]

January 31, 2011   

Read Exodus 40
Highlights: Tabernacle completed and erected; furnishings arranged; consecration of Aaron and his sons; the glory of the Lord filling the Tabernacle.

After the sin offering has been sacrificed, we next approach the Laver of brass (Ex. 38:, containing water for the cleansing of the priests before they entered the Holy Place. As they entered the Holy Place, the Table of Shewbread was on the right and the Golden Candlestick on the left. The first room of the Tabernacle was known as the Holy Place (26:35; 40:22-23). And he (Moses) brought the Ark into the Tabernacle . . . as the Lord commanded. . . . And he put the Table in the Tent . . . northward, without (outside but near) the vail. And he set the bread in order . . . as the Lord had commanded Moses. And he put the Candlestick . . . over against (opposite) the Table . . . southward. . . . lighted the lamps (seven bowls filled with oils atop the candlestick) . . . . And . . . put the Golden Altar in the Tent of the congregation before (in front of) the vail (just outside the Holy of Holies) (40:21-26). The Golden Altar illustrates the privilege of prayer. We can pray anytime and anywhere.

Bread was set on the Table of Shewbread (25:23-30) in the presence of Jehovah, one loaf for each tribe of Israel. The bread placed upon the Table reminded the Israelites of their dependence upon Jehovah for their daily sustenance (Ezek. 16:19; Hos. 2:. But it also was symbolic of Christ who said: I am the Bread of Life: he that cometh to Me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on Me shall never thirst (John 6:35).

The Candlestick represented guidance by the Holy Spirit: He will guide you into all Truth (John 16:13). Israel was guided at night by the presence of the Lord in a pillar of fire, to give them light (Ex. 13:21). The Candlestick's flame was fueled with oil which illustrates the Spirit of God. The Candlestick also stood as a symbol foreshadowing Christ, who declared: I am the Light of the world: he that followeth Me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the Light of life (John 8:12).

The Word of God and His Holy Spirit provide all of the wisdom, spiritual guidance, and strength necessary to live obediently and victoriously for Him. He has revealed that ye are the Temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? If any man defile the Temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the Temple of God is holy, which Temple ye are (I Cor. 3:16-17; 6:18-19). Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice (Phil. 4:4).

Thought for Today:

I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep: for Thou, Lord, only makest me dwell in safety (Ps. 4:.
Christ Portrayed:

By Aaron as the high priest (Ex. 40:13). Christ being come an High Priest. . . . to appear in the presence of God for us (Heb. 9:7-24).
Word Studies:

40:3 the Testimony the Ten Commandments; cover the Ark with the vail hang a curtain to separate the Most Holy Place; 40:7 Laver large basin or bowl used for washing the hands and feet; 40:10 sanctify consecrate to God; 40:11 his foot its stand; 40:20 staves poles with which to carry; 40:24 over against opposite.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Staff: Clarence Rathbone • Government Officials: Rep. Larry Kissell (NC) and Rep. C.A. "Dutch" Ruppersberger (MD) • Country: South Africa (42.6 million) on the southern tip of the African continent • Major languages: Afrikaans and English • Religious freedom • 76% Christian; 1% Muslim; 1% Hindu; 15% Traditional; .5% Jewish; 6.5% None/Other (Baha'i, Jain, Sikh, Zoroastrian, Buddhist, Confucian) • Prayer Suggestion: Rejoice that our Savior was born (Luke 2:11).
Optional Reading: Mark 3

Memory Verse for the Week: Hosea 4:6

[Judy Harder]

February 1, 2011 

Read Leviticus 1 -- 3
Highlights:

The first words God spoke to Moses are: Speak unto the children of Israel (Lev. 1:2). Find out how to approach God and continue in fellowship with Him.
Three times it is repeated that if his offering be a Burnt Sacrifice . . . he shall offer it of his own voluntary will . . . before the Lord. . . . it is . . . a sweet savour unto the Lord (Lev. 1:3,17). But the Sin Offering and the Trespass Offering were never a sweet savour for they were required to restore one's relationship with God. Only then could the worshiper present the sweet savour offerings that truly satisfied God.

For the successful farmer, the Burnt Offering was often an ox that plowed in a field or pulled a cart. It was chosen as a Burnt Offering sacrifice because it represented the most valuable of all clean animals. It was killed, burned outside the gate, and reduced to ashes. (Only then did it ascend to God as a sweet savour unto the Lord.) There was a remarkable transformation that took place from the time the powerful ox was plowing the fields until the time it was reduced to ashes. To the world it became worthless, but to God it became precious.

We, too, are like the "powerful oxen," proud of our talents and abilities. But to please God they must be "reduced to ashes" (fully dedicated to God for His glory) to become a sweet savor — a satisfaction to God. This means that in all our activities we will ask: "What would Jesus do?" He has said: It is good neither to eat flesh, nor to drink wine, nor any thing whereby thy brother stumbleth, or is offended, or is made weak (Rom. 14:21). If it were possible for you to drink with a clear conscience, you would never know how many you would influence to become an alcoholic. We are to present your (our) bodies a living sacrifice (not just on Sunday), holy, acceptable unto God. . . . And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God (12:1-2). To offer God less than our best may hinder or influence another from being fully devoted to serving the Lord.

A Burnt Offering illustrates the essential characteristics of a Christian's life that affects both the inward cleansing and external conduct such as: Be not drunk with wine . . . but be filled with the (Holy) Spirit (Eph. 5:18). Obviously, either wine or the Holy Spirit is in control. God removed all doubt when Paul wrote: The works of the flesh are manifest . . . Adultery (sexual perversions) . . . drunkenness . . . and such like . . .. they which do such things shall not inherit the Kingdom of God (Gal. 5:19-24). If ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live (Rom. 8:13).

Thought for Today:

Let us go forth therefore unto Him without the camp, bearing His reproach (Heb. 13:13).
Christ Revealed:

Through the Meat (Meal finely ground, symbolic of the perfection of Christ and His willingness to be crushed for us) Offering. This offering was made without leaven (symbolic of sin) (Lev. 2:11). Christ was without sin (Heb. 4:15).
Word Studies:

1:9 sweet savour acceptable satisfying fragrance; 2:3 holy set apart for God and according to the Word of God; 2:4 unleavened without yeast; 2:12 oblation offering; 2:13 suffer allow; 3:9 hard by near to, close to.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for our Military worldwide • International Radio Broadcasts sponsored by Mary Hoffmeyer • Staff: Rick Hash • Government Official: Sen. Mike Enzi (WY) • Country: South Korea (46.9 million) in northeastern Asia • Major languages: Korean and English • Religious freedom • 48% Christian; 40% Buddhist; 3% Confucian; 9% Shamanism; Chodogyo, Other • Prayer Suggestion: Pray for (not against) your enemies (Luke 6:28).
NOTE: We list the President, Vice President, Supreme Court Justices, Cabinet Members, Senators, Representatives, and Governors on their birthdays. Because we publish in advance our list may not reflect the results of the most recent elections.

Optional Reading: Mark 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: Hosea 4:6