Bible Pathways

[Judy Harder]

March 17, 2011 

Read Joshua 11 -- 13

Highlights:

In 1:3, the Lord said to Joshua: Every place that the sole of your foot shall tread upon, that have I given unto you. All the Canaanite kings mobilize their armies and unite to defeat Israel. God promises to "give" the children of Israel the land; but they were required to keep His Covenant and testimonies (Ps. 25:10). Then God would guide, protect, and provide their needs. Joshua and the Israelites are victorious and win every battle. The key to their victory is the same for us.
About 25 years had passed since Israel crossed over Jordan into the promised land; all the kings had been defeated and Canaan was controlled by the Israelites. Yet, the Amorites, Jebusites, and Hittites were still in possession of much of Canaan. Now Joshua was old and stricken in years; and the Lord said unto him . . . there remaineth yet very much land to be possessed (Josh. 13:1).

At this time, the nation of Israel was living for the most part in the mountains and hills. Most of the cities in the valleys had not been conquered. As the God-appointed leader, Joshua continued in loyal obedience to the Command of God. He divided the remaining land by faith, claiming it according to the promise of God. By pronouncing the land division, Joshua was encouraging Israel not to be satisfied with past victories. All the land of promise was theirs, but it had to be taken by each tribe of the Israelites as allotted.

The prominent tribes that first defeated their Canaan kingdoms could have led the way for final conquest for all the tribes. Often Christians, once active in the Lord's service, become inactive and satisfied with past achievements when their years of experience should enable them to render to the Church a more valuable service than ever. The experience of years of godly living needs to be taught to those who are just beginning in the Christian faith so they too, may be victorious over Satan's deception. By reading the Word of God, we receive spiritual discernment needed to cope with today's problems (I Cor. 10:11).

Our old human nature is such that the eyes of a man are never satisfied (Prov. 2:20). Jesus said: If God so clothe the grass of the field . . . shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith? . . . But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you (Matt. 6:30,33). We are reminded of the vital importance of serving the Lord now and He will supply our needs. Walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, Redeeming the time, because the days are evil (Eph. 5:15-16).

Thought for Today:

As the Lord commanded Moses His servant, so did Moses command Joshua, and so did Joshua; he left nothing undone of all that the Lord commanded Moses (Josh. 11:15).
Christ Portrayed:

By Moses the servant of the Lord (Josh. 12:6). Jesus was the Servant of God. Behold My Servant, whom I have chosen (Matt. 12:18).
Word Studies:

11:4 hosts army; 11:5 were met together joined forces; 11:6 hough hamstring; 12:3 Sea of Chinneroth sea of Galilee; Sea of the plain, even the Salt Sea dead Sea; 13:22 soothsayer diviner, fortune-teller.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in memory of Iva Ann McElroy • Country: Antigua and Barbuda (64,000) in the Leeward Islands of the eastern Caribbean • Major languages: English and local dialects • Religious freedom • 83% Protestant; 11% Roman Catholic • Prayer Suggestion: Boldly and confidently go to God in prayer through Jesus' Name (Eph. 3:12).
Optional Reading: John 8

Memory Verse for the Week: I Peter 2:1

 

[Judy Harder]

March 18, 2011   

Read Joshua 14 -- 16

Highlights:

Territories in the land of Canaan divided among the tribes. Caleb gets his mountain (Hebron) (Josh. 14:6-12). Note his age! As the tribes receive their inheritance, notice how precisely the boundaries are laid out.
We can see the guidance of God in the lives of Abraham, Moses, and Joshua, and in Israel's conquest of Canaan! The children of Israel inherited in the land of Canaan. . . . as the Lord commanded by the hand of Moses, for the nine tribes, and for the half tribe. For Moses had given the inheritance of two tribes and a half tribe on the other side Jordan (Josh. 14:1-3). For four hundred years God had been preparing the tribes of Israel for their respective inheritances. From the call of Abraham onward, numerous events show the Lord's preparation for the Israelites to occupy the promised land.

The two and one-half tribes wanted what in human judgment appeared to be best for them. However, only God knows what is best for our future. Nevertheless, each one of us is responsible for acting on the spiritual opportunities that God has provided. God chooses His servants and bestows His gifts to all who have the desire to serve Him. Every Christian can be a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come (Matt. 24:14; see also 20:16; Phil. 2:13).

Accomplishing the will of God never comes by waiting for a convenient time but by beginning right now doing something and continuing to obey the voice of Him who alone knows what is best. Say not ye, There are yet four months, and then cometh harvest? behold, I say unto you, Lift up your eyes, and look on the fields; for they are white already to harvest (John 4:35). If we are faithful to act on the opportunities God has provided, then like Job we can say: He knoweth the way that I take: when He hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold (Job 23:10).

The land was to be apportioned to each of the twelve tribes as God directed. Just think! The plan of God is interwoven with the willing efforts of His people to fulfill His will.

As the believer yields himself to the Lord, there comes a growing understanding of the Lord's perfect will (Prov. 3:5-6; Rom. 12:2). Because Jesus Christ is Lord of our lives, we know assuredly, the events in our lives are not left to chance. God is no respecter of persons (Acts 10:34). The plan of God is perfect. We can trust that He always gives us His best.

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ . . . that we should be holy and without blame before Him in love (Eph. 1:3-4).

Thought for Today:

Oh Lord, Thou hast searched me, and known me (Ps. 139:1).
Christ Portrayed:

By Caleb, who wholly followed the Lord (Josh. 14:8,14). Our Savior said: Lo, I come . . . to do Thy will, O God (Heb. 10:7,9).
Word Studies:

14:4 save except; suburbs pasture lands; 14:7 espy out take a search in; 14:8 wholly followed obeyed wholeheartedly; 14:9 sware promised under oath; 14:12 fenced fortified; 14:15 had rest enjoyed peace; 15:6 stone boundary marker; 15:10 compassed curved ; 15:19 nether lower; 16:1 fell rent; 16:3 goings out thereof are at borders reach; 16:10 under tribute is forced laborers.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Official: Rep. Howard Coble (NC) • Country: Argentina (37 million) in southern South America • Major languages: Spanish and English • Religious freedom • 87% Roman Catholic; 8% Protestant; 1.5% Muslim; 1% Jewish; 2.5% Other • Prayer Suggestion: Ask the Lord to give you strength for today's need (Eph. 3:14-16).
Optional Reading: John 9

Memory Verse for the Week: I Peter 2:1

[Judy Harder]

March 19, 2011   

Read Joshua 17 -- 19

Highlights:

The promised land is under the control of the Israelites; the Tabernacle is set up in a central location at Shiloh near Joshua's small inheritance. The land is divided among all the tribes by lot, but some tribes fail to claim their territory.
The seven-year conquest of Canaan was added to the forty long years of wandering in the wilderness before Israel could erect the Tabernacle in the place which the Lord your God shall choose out of all your tribes (Deut.12:5). The whole congregation of the children of Israel assembled together at Shiloh, and set up the Tabernacle of the congregation there. And the land was subdued before them (Josh. 18:1). How satisfying it must have been to set up the Tabernacle in Shiloh whose name signified rest!

In a very real sense, Canaan was not won until the Ark was established in Shiloh, for only then do we read that added phrase and the land was subdued before them.

Once Christ has delivered a person from the power of Satan (as a lost sinner), there remains very much (spiritual) land (13:1) yet to be conquered. The lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever (I John 2:16-17). The believer with a genuine heart to please the Lord knows that the worldly and material giants of lust must be overcome before we fully express the fruits of the Spirit — love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance (Gal. 5:22-23).

Remember the majority of the tribes did not have the faith (courage) to possess their inheritance until after this Shiloh experience. Many believers never experience much inward spiritual satisfaction because they continue on with the same goals in life as they had before they were "saved." They fail to become actively involved in the Lord's ministry and consider that ye are not your own (I Cor. 6:19). Only "if time permits" do they consider their spiritual responsibility to the Kingdom of God. But, every man that hath this hope in Him purifieth himself, even as He (Jesus) is pure (I John 3:2-3). True peace is experienced through yielding to the will of God who said: Laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, and all evil speakings (gossip, criticism, faultfinding, and ridicule), As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the Word, that ye may grow thereby: If so be ye have tasted that the Lord is gracious (I Pet. 2:1-3).

Thought for Today:

When they had made an end of dividing the land for inheritance by their coasts, the children of Israel gave an inheritance to Joshua the son of Nun among them (Josh. 19:49).
Christ Revealed:

Through Shiloh. The children of Israel assembled together at Shiloh, and set up the Tabernacle (Josh. 18:1). The Tabernacle was located at Shiloh, meaning "peace." The Tabernacle was where the presence of God dwelt, and both the place and the Tabernacle were prophetic of Jesus. These things I have spoken unto you, that in Me ye might have peace (John 16:33).
Word Studies:

17:1 man of war great soldier; 17:13 waxen strong grown stronger; 18:4 describe draw a descriptive map of; 18:10 divisions family groups; 18:12 the goings out thereof its outer limits; 18:14 west quarter western side; 18:17 was drawn extended; the going up the ascent; stone marker; 19:14 compasseth goes around; outgoings limits; 19:34 sunrising fast.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Official: Rep. Mike Coffman (CO) • Country: Armenia (3.8 million) southwest Transcaucasia between Europe and Asia • Major languages: Armenian and Russian • Religious freedom • 78.5% Armenian Apostolic Church; 3.3% Muslim; .05% Protestant; 17.7% Atheist/Agnostic Prayer Suggestion: Pray for your brothers and sisters that they might be filled with spiritual discernment and the fullness of Christ (Eph. 3:14-18).
Optional Reading: John 10

Memory Verse for the Week: I Peter 2:1

[Judy Harder]

March 20, 2011   

Read Joshua 20 -- 21

Highlights:

Six cities appointed as cities of refuge; forty-eight cities given to the Levites. All the tribes were responsible to support the Levites (Josh. 21:44-45).
Many of the cities within the promised land were still occupied by various Canaanite kingdoms after the death of Joshua (Josh. 17:12-13; 18:3). Their inheritance was delayed because of their sins of fear (unbelief) and compromise.

Caleb, however, was as dedicated as he had been more than forty years earlier when Moses sent him to spy out the land. There was no trace of weakness as he testified to the nation: As my strength was then, even so is my strength now (14:11). Many hard years had intervened, yet his vision and willingness to conquer the Canaanites at the age of more than eighty-five had not diminished from when he was forty. He rallied the forces, fought the Canaanites, and declared victory over powerful Hebron. There is only one explanation for his success. Caleb had faith in God and His power to fulfill His promises (Num. 14:24). God first gave promise of the land to Abraham (Gen. 13:14-15; 15:18-21), then to Jacob (28:13), and now the Lord gave unto Israel all the land which He sware to give unto their fathers; and they possessed it (Josh. 21:43-45).

Canaan was a wicked, sinful land whose inhabitants contaminated it by their violence, immorality, and idol worship. God said it was a land which deserved judgment and He called upon the Israelites to execute His judgment. The land which Christians are to possess is the whole world: Go . . teach all nations . . . to observe all things (Matt. 28:19-20). With Christ as our King, we are to wage continued spiritual warfare against evil in whatever form it may be found. The nature of warfare has not changed. Its conditions remain the same, and His victory is still our objective (I John 5:4). The servants of God are called to rise up and overcome. Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good (Rom. 12:21).

God fulfills His promises through Christians who are today's Joshua and Caleb. God gave Joshua the requirements for fulfilling His promises: This Book of the Law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success (Josh. 1:. The numerous promises of our Lord are a witness to His unfailing grace which is available to every believer (I Tim. 6:15).

Jesus declared: Heaven and earth shall pass away, but My words shall not pass away (Matt. 24:35).

Thought for Today:

Thou shewest lovingkindness unto thousands . . . the Great, the Mighty God, the Lord of hosts, is His Name (Jer. 32:18).
Christ Portrayed:

By Eleazar, the chief priest (Josh. 21:1; Num. 3:32). Jesus Christ is our High Priest. The . . . High Priest of our profession (confession), Christ Jesus (Heb. 3:1).
Word Studies:

20:2 Appoint out choose, Assign; 20:3 unwittingly without premeditation, unintentionally; 20:4 declare his cause state his case; 20:5 hated him not,  was without malice; 20:9 stranger foreign resident; sojourneth temporarily dwells; at unawares by accident; 21:1 heads readers; 21:4 lot share.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in honor of Rick Hash • Country: Australia (19 million) an island continent between the Indian and Pacific Oceans • Major languages: English and native languages • Religious freedom • 40% Protestant; 27% Roman Catholic; 3% Orthodox; 2% Muslim • Prayer Suggestion: Praise and thank the Lord that He can do exceedingly more than we ask or even think (Eph. 3:20).
Optional Reading: John 11

Memory Verse for the Week: I Peter 3:8

[Judy Harder]

Read Joshua 22 -- 24

Highlights:

Two and a half tribes build an altar near the Jordan River (Josh. 22:10-12); civil war averted; Joshua's final proclamation to the Israelites to live holy lives and not to compromise with the Canaanites.
There was just one national altar of sacrifice, one location where God would meet with the people, and one Tabernacle, and that was at Shiloh. The children of Reuben . . . Gad and . . . Manasseh . . . departed from the children of Israel out of Shiloh. . . . And . . . built there an altar by Jordan, a great altar to see (Josh 22:9-10).

It was built by the two and a half tribes who chose to live outside the promised land. Material gain was their first concern. When they made their decisions, they had no intention of worshiping the false gods of the Canaanites.

The trend among some Christians today is to create a union with the world not based on spiritual oneness and not seeking Divine direction. Without Christ being first in our consideration in all decisions of our lives, there can be no real unity with the people of God. True unity is not outward, but inward; it is neither achieved nor preserved by external memorials like this altar next to the Jordan. The believer needs to discern that his unity with all who belong to Christ is a spiritual unity wrought by the Holy Spirit Himself. So we, being many, are one Body in Christ, and every one members one of another (Rom. 12:5).

Joshua's farewell message warned Israel seven times of the adulterous nations which were still left in Canaan. He knew the snare they would be to Israel and therefore gave them three safeguards. There must be absolute adherence to the Word of God (Josh. 23:6), a distinct separation from the Canaanite nations (23:7), and a cleaving to the Lord with fervent love and full obedience to the His Word (23:8-11). These three indispensable principles are just as needed today as they were in Joshua's day. His Commandments are not grievous (burdensome) (I John 5:3) and those who keep them discover an abundance of heavenly treasures which this world can neither give nor take away.

For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God (Col. 1:9-10).

Thought for Today:

Wherefore God also hath highly exalted Him, and given Him a Name which is above every name . . . that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father (Phil. 2:9,11).
Christ Revealed:

Through the Peace Offering (Josh. 22:27). Our Lord offered Himself to God as our means of peace with the Father. Being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ (Rom. 5:1).
Word Studies:

22:9 were possessed had acquired; 22:10 to see to for all to see; 22:19 unclean unfit, defiled; 22:20 accursed belonged to the Lord — all Israel became accursed if anyone took something for himself (6:17-19); 22:23 require it call us to account; 22:25 fearing having reverential heartfelt submission to and respect for; 23:1 waxed drew; 23:4 cut off destroyed; 23:7 swear take a vow; 23:9 stand before withstand; 23:12 go in unto associate with; 23:13 shall be snares . . . unto you shall catch you unawares; scourges in whip lashes on; 24:2 flood River; 24:20 strange foreign; 24:23 incline field; 24:33 pertained belonged.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in honor of Linda Kennon • Government Officials: Rep. Paul Hodes (NH) and Rep. James Matheson (UT) • Country: Austria (8.1 million) in central Europe • Major language: German • Religious freedom • 78% Catholic; 6% Protestant; 3% Other Christian; 2% Muslim; .1% Jewish; 1.9% Other • Prayer Suggestion: Ask the Lord to reveal His will and fill you with His Spirit (Eph. 5:17-18).
Optional Reading: John 12

Memory Verse for the Week: I Peter 3:8

[Judy Harder]

Read Judges 1 -- 2

Highlights:

Joshua and the elders die. The Israelites lived in the mountains because the Canaanites in the valleys would attack them with chariots of iron. The Israelites sin by being friendly with the Canaanites and they also stopped serving God (Judg. 2:10-11).
The Book of Judges gives the history of the Israelites for about 300 to 450 years after the death of Joshua. Under Joshua's leadership at the waters of Merom, the Israelites had defeated the Canaanite . . . (who were) as the sand upon the sea shore in multitude, with horses and chariots very many (Josh. 11:3-5). Yet, there arose another generation . . . which knew not the Lord. . . . and served Baalim: And they forsook the Lord (Judg. 2:10-12). Canaanite is a general name given to all the kingdoms that existed in the promised land.

The tribe of Judah was the first to go up against the Canaanites and for a time the men of Judah walked by faith and conquered. The Israelites failed to fully possess the whole land because they proved they were unfaithful to God. In addition, some of the tribes lost the victories they had won and were again enslaved by the surrounding heathen nations. At the root of every failure is a lack of obedience to the Word of God.

The Book of Judges illustrates what happens to many Christians, as well as the church, with its loss of holiness and members. It is also an illustration for believers to hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering (Heb. 10:23).

It seems strange that at the sight of the iron chariots the tribe of Judah would not trust the Lord to give them victory over the Canaanites. God had said: When thou goest out to battle against thine enemies, and seest horses, and chariots, and a people more than thou, be not afraid of them: for the Lord thy God is with thee, which brought thee up out of the land of Egypt (Deut. 20:1).

What a lesson this is to the Christian! When they forsook the Lord, they gave up their faith. Note the failures in the other tribes that followed the example of Judah who forsook the One True God. They are a reminder of how easy it is to become distracted with personal interests that occupy the time that should be given to the Lord. Without realizing it, some today have created another god and use the Lord's Day and His tithe to enjoy their new god of leisure or entertainment. As a warning, let us remember Israel's failure: The children of Israel dwelt among the Canaanites . . . and served their gods. . . . and forgot the Lord (Judg. 3:5-7).

Thought for Today:

Call unto Me, and I will answer thee, and shew thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not (Jer. 33:3).
Christ Revealed:

As the Angel of the Lord who is understood to be Jesus Himself, for He speaks as God Himself (I made you . . . and have brought you . . . I sware . . . I said, I will . . . My Covenant) (Judg. 2:1-4). Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Before Abraham was, I am (John 8:58).
Word Studies:

1:7 meat under my table leftover food; requited repaid; 1:20 expelled thence drove out, defeated; 1:23 descry spy out; 1:27 would dwell determined to remain; 1:30 tributaries forced laborers; 2:12 bowed themselves unto worshiped; 2:16 spoiled plundered; 2:17 went a whoring after other gods were unfaithful to the One True God; 2:18 repented thrieved, showed compassion; 2:19 corrupted themselves became more sinful; 2:22 prove test.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in honor of Bonnie Wilhite • Government Officials: Sen. Orrin Hatch (UT) and Rep. Pete Sessions (TX) • Staff: Jannah Kennon • Country: Azerbaijan (7.7 million) southern Transcaucasia between Europe and Asia • Major languages: Azeri and Russian • Religious freedom • 65% Shi'a Muslim; 30% Sunni Muslim; 2% Russian Orthodox; 2% Armenian Apostolic; 1% Jewish • Prayer Suggestion: Give thanks to the Lord for all things (Eph. 5:19-20).
Optional Reading: John 13

Memory Verse for the Week: I Peter 3:8

[Judy Harder]

March 23, 2011 

Read Judges 3 -- 5

Highlights:

The Lord uses other nations to test Israel's loyalty (Judg. 3:1,4). Notice the sequence: First servitude — Mesopotamia — 1st Judge Othniel. Second servitude — Moab — 2nd Judge Ehud. Third servitude — Philistia — 3rd Judge Shamgar (3:8-31). Fourth servitude — Canaan — 4th Judge Deborah (along with Barak).
At this dismal time in Israel's history, nothing is said of the priests of God who presented the sacrifices and prayers of the people before the Lord. Had they forgotten that the Captain of the (Lord's) Host would lead as they fought their battles (Josh. 5:14)? This Captain of the Host (Christ) had appeared to Joshua at the beginning of the campaigns.

But now there is no Moses or Joshua or Caleb to encourage the Israelites who were again servants of the Canaanites. However, God chose two women and God used them mightily to defeat His enemy and theirs. Deborah would act as the head (Judg. 4:4) and Jael as the hand (4:21) in defeating the powerful King Jabin of Canaan, the captain of whose host was Sisera who had kept Israel in slavery for twenty years (4:2-3).

What was it about Deborah that helped encourage and convince Barak to accomplish Israel's first united action since the conquest (possibly 175 years earlier)? Obviously, there was no visible evidence that the enemy could be defeated. Nor did Deborah convince Israel to believe the possibility of conquest. The distinct influence of Deborah is that she was a godly prophetess of God. God always imparts guidance and power to everyone who undertakes to do His will regardless of adverse circumstances. Deborah had said to Barak: I will surely go with thee. . . . for this is the day in which the Lord hath delivered Sisera into thine hand: is not the Lord gone out before thee? So Barak went down from Mount Tabor, and ten thousand men after him (4:9,14).

Jesus said to pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that He will send forth labourers into His harvest (Matt. 9:38). A distinctive role of Christ's church is to manifest His resurrection life. This newness of life (Rom. 6:4) is something much deeper than doctrine, good works, and a growing membership. Needed more than ever in our churches today are men like Caleb and Joshua and women like Deborah and Jael. God destroyed the power of death and defeated death through the resurrection of Jesus Christ (Rev. 1:18). Today, God uses the church to tell the Good News of our Savior and Lord and to bring others to receive Him and His resurrection life.

The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly (John 10:10).

Thought for Today:

How great are His signs! and how mighty are His wonders! His kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and His dominion is from generation to generation (Dan. 4:3).
Christ Portrayed:

By Othniel, a deliverer upon whom the Spirit of the Lord rested (Judg. 3:9-11). The Spirit of God was also upon Christ, our Deliverer (Matt. 3:16). There shall come out of Sion (Zion) the Deliverer, and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob (Rom. 11:26). Jesus declared: The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He hath anointed Me . . . to preach deliverance to the captives (Luke 4:18).
Word Studies:

3:7 groves idols, trees or poles set up near an altar for idol worship; 3:13 gathered recruited; 3:18 made an end to offer the present finished giving the tribute; bare carried; 3:19 Keep silence leave us alone; 3:24 covereth his feet taking a nap; 4:13 Gentiles nations; 4:15 discomfited struck terror in; 4:16 host army; fell upon the edge of the sword were killed; 5:10 ride on white asses sold public offices; 5:11 go down to the gates defend themselves; 5:14 root new; 5:15 princes rulers; 5:18 jeoparded risked; 5:30 sped found (the enemy); divers various.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Staff: Jennifer Cunningham • Country: Bahamas (284,000) in the northern portion of the West Indies • Major languages: English and some Creole • Religious freedom • 72% Protestant; 26% Roman Catholic; 1% Afro-American spiritist • Prayer Suggestion: Wives, ask the Lord to give you a submissive spirit to your husbands as if it were to the Lord, and husbands, ask the Lord to give you a heart to love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave Himself for it (Eph. 5:22-25).
Optional Reading: John 14

Memory Verse for the Week: I Peter 3:8

 

[Judy Harder]

 March 24, 2011 

Read Judges 6 -- 7

Highlights:

Israel's repetitious disobedience results in her defeat and domination by Midian. Gideon takes a stand against his father's worship of Baal. Battle against the Midianites. See the remarkable way the Lord led Gideon and his army (Judg. 7:2-15).
For seven long years the Israelites were worshiping Baal and consequently were suffering under the rule of the Midianites. They needed to learn that failure to obey God always results in suffering.

Gideon's readiness to obey the command of the Angel is most refreshing. At great risk to himself, Gideon built an altar there unto the Lord. . . . the Lord said unto him . . . throw down the altar of Baal that thy father hath (built) . . . And build an altar unto the Lord thy God upon the top of this rock . . . and offer a burnt sacrifice. . . . Then Gideon took ten men of his servants, and did as the Lord had said unto him (Judg. 6:24-27).

There was an outcry of vengeance from the city against Gideon for destroying the altar of Baal.

After this, Gideon faced a vast invading army of 135,000 soldiers (8:10), while at the same time the Lord instructed him to progressively disband his own forces. It seemed impossible to expect his chosen 300 soldiers to defeat the huge Midianite and Amalekite army. The Apostle Peter recorded: Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you . . . But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings (I Pet. 4:12-13). In our hopeless hour when there seems to be no way out, it is reassuring to know that God is always able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us (Eph. 3:20).

As we respond in faith, God is able to increase our faith, that we may learn He is in control of every detail of our lives. "Things" that happen to believers are not accidents but incidents to be used of God to develop our faith to fulfill His will. However, under the guise of "waiting for a more convenient time," some Christians prefer to avoid opportunities of being used of God. They avoid at all cost the difficulties that are often essential to fulfill His will. They avoid all the inconveniences that would be necessary to be like Paul, the man God chose to write the majority of our New Testament. God said of the Apostle Paul: I will shew him how great things he must suffer for My Name's sake (Acts 9:16), but for all who are willing to be used of God, you can be sure He worketh all things after the counsel of His own will (Eph. 1:11).

Thought for Today:

The Lord thy God in the midst of thee is mighty; He will save, He will rejoice over thee with joy; He will rest in His love, He will joy over thee with singing (Zeph. 3:17).
Christ Revealed:

As the Sword of the Lord (Judg. 7:20). In the Apostle John's revelation of Jesus, out of His mouth went a sharp two-edged Sword (Rev. 1:16). We know that the Sword is the Word of God (Eph. 6:17) and that Jesus is the Word of God made flesh (John 1:14).
Word Studies:

6:1 into the hand under the control; 6:3 came up against them invaded the country; 6:13 befallen happened to; 6:16 smite strike down; 6:19 unleavened yeast-free; 6:20 flesh meat; 6:28 grove idols; 6:36 by my hand through me; 7:3 in the ears within the hearing.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Officials: Gov. Peter Shumlin (VT), Gov. Christine Gregoire (WA), Rep. Ann Kirkpatrick (AZ), and Rep. Don Manzullo (IL) • Staff: Gina Lesnefsky • Country: Bahrain (629,000) 11 islands in the Persian Gulf near Saudi Arabia • Major languages: Arabic and English • No evangelical work is permitted • 85% Muslim; 5% Roman Catholic; 2% Protestant; 1% Orthodox • Prayer Suggestion: Husbands, love your wives as Christ loves the Church (Eph. 5:25).
Optional Reading: John 15

Memory Verse for the Week: I Peter 3:8

[Judy Harder]

March 25, 2011   

Read Judges 8 -- 9

Highlights:

Jealousy rises up (Judg. 8:1). After Gideon's death one of his sons conspires against his brothers and murders all but one. You will be surprised at whom God uses to remove the wicked son. Abimelech's "accident" and death.
God chose Gideon from the poor tribe of Manasseh. Gideon had confessed to God: My family is poor . . . and I am the least in my father's house (Judg. 6:15). But God knew that Gideon had a profound respect for Him that inspired his faith to be obedient to God regardless of the circumstances.

Gideon was the man chosen to deliver Israel from Midianite oppression. The men of Ephraim said unto him, why hast thou served us thus, that thou calledst us not, when thou wentest to fight with the Midianites? And they did chide with him sharply (8:1). The Ephraimites had long been characterized by a spirit of complaining and self-importance (Deut. 33:17). Consequently, God could not use them or anyone else who allows their life to be a cesspool of sin.

When Gideon blew the trumpet to summon volunteers to fight the Lord's battle, there is no record of even one response from the tribe of Ephraim. The "superior tribe" stayed at home till the victory was won, and then they faulted Gideon. One would have expected them to come to Gideon with apologies and regret that they had not volunteered for battle. In finding fault with Gideon they were really complaining against God, who chose and guided Gideon in all his maneuvers. The Ephraimites' ambition appeared to have been a desire for exalting themselves and gratifying their pride. Gideon is a refreshing contrast as he stood before the people like a giant in the midst of the murmuring majority.

The humility of Gideon was also apparent when at once he conceded the place of honor to them by saying: What have I done now in comparison to you (Judg. 8:2)? He was ready to underrate himself and yield to their attitude of superiority. He used a proverbial expression: Is not the gleaning of the grapes of Ephraim better than the vintage (the full crop) of Abiezer? (8:2), and concluded by saying: God hath delivered into your hands the princes of Midian (8:3). He was faithful to God in reminding these proud complainers that the glory for all achievements on that memorable day really belonged to God who hath delivered into your hands the princes.

Christians are urged: Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. . . . Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who . . . took upon Him the form of a servant (Phil. 2:3-7).

Thought for Today:

Jesus saith unto him, I am The Way, The Truth, and The Life; no man cometh unto the Father, but by Me (Luke 1:49).
Christ Portrayed:

By Gideon, who delivered the Israelites from Midian (Judg. 8:22-23). The Lord Jesus has delivered us out of the hands of our spiritual enemies, and it is fitting that He should rule over us. Our Lord Jesus Christ . . . gave Himself for our sins, that He might deliver us from this present evil world (Gal. 1:3-4; II Pet. 2:9; Rom. 11:26).
Word Studies:

8:1 chide contend; 8:3 was abated subsided; 8:9 in peace victoriously; 8:12 discomfited defeated; 8:26 collars recklaces; 8:27 ephod priestly garment; whoring worshiping false gods; snare stumbling block; 8:32 sepulchre tomb; 9:2 your bone and your flesh your relative; 9:4 vain and light worthless and reckless; 9:17 adventured risked; 9:20 fire fiery destruction; 9:25 liers in wait in ambush; 9:38 mouth boasting; 9:52 went hard unto approached near; 9:56 rendered returned.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Official: Sen. John Ensign (NV) • Staff: Mike Moore • Country: Bangladesh (125.7 million) in southern Asia • Major languages: Bangla and English • Present religious freedom may become limited • 86.6% Muslim; 12.1% Hindu; .6% Buddhist; .3% Christian; .4% Other • Prayer Suggestion: Children, ask the Lord to enable you to honor your parents (Eph. 6:1-3).
Optional Reading: John 16

Memory Verse for the Week: I Peter 3:8

[Judy Harder]

March 26, 2011 
 
Read Judges 10 -- 11

Highlights:

Israel forsakes the Lord and worships idols; Israel oppressed by Ammonites for 18 years; Ammonites defeated. Jephthah's remarkable loyalty to God; his vow and victory; the depth of dedication of his only child. Read how God could be so pleased with her and Jephthah.
Who would have looked in Syria, where idolatry was almost universal, for a captain of the army of the Lord? How wonderful that an illegitimate son would one day become the only person among all the thousands of Israelites who was qualified to be Judge in Israel.

Jephthah, because of the illegitimacy of his birth, was disinherited by his father's house. The elders of Gilead (Judg. 11:5,7) forced him to leave the land of promise. Now Jephthah the Gileadite was a mighty man of valour, and he was the son of an harlot: and Gilead begat Jephthah (11:1).

When he was driven from his home in Gilead, Jephthah went to his mother's country in the land of Tob (11:3), a small Syrian state (II Sam. 10:6,8). It was a land of idols; yet Jephthah had lived long enough in the promised land to acquire a deep and lasting faith in Israel's God. In exile, Jephthah remained faithful to God while surrounded by idolators for about eighteen years.

Because he had been excommunicated from Israel, Jephthah could have said: "Why should I try to do anything for the glory of God?" But this man of faith had gained a reputation for vindicating the cause of Jehovah and had been so victorious in battle that all Israel turned to him in the day of their distress. He was the only man who was qualified to respond to the Ammonites' threat to attack the Israelites, and the people made him head (judge) and captain (of Israel's army) over them (Judg. 11:11).

Jephthah illustrates that the Lord's estimation of men is often different than ours, for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart (I Sam. 16:7).

Israel's attitude toward Jephthah was contemptible, but the day came when Israel discovered how much they needed him. Jephthah's difficulties prepared him for the future and only God knows what we need as we face the future.

God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty . . . That no flesh should glory in His presence. . . . That, according as it is written, He that glorieth, let him glory in the God (I Cor. 1:27-31).

Thought for Today:

Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves (Matt. 7:15).
Christ Portrayed:

By Jephthah's only child as she wholly submitted to her father's will even as Jesus wholly submitted to His Father's will (Judg. 11:34-40). On the night He was betrayed, Jesus prayed: Not as I will, but as Thou wilt (Matt. 26:39).
Word Studies:

10:8 vexed afflicted, grievously oppressed; 10:14 cry unto ask for help from; 11:2 strange foreign; 11:3 vain renegade; 11:23 dispossessed driven out; 11:34 timbrels tambourines; 11:35 opened my mouth made a vow.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in memory of Audrey Hash • Government Officials: Gov. Lincoln Chafee (RI), Rep. Jason Chaffetz (UT), and Rep. Nancy Pelosi (CA) • Staff: Ilene Wallace • Country: Barbados (259,000) on the island farthest east in the West Indies • Major language: English • Religious freedom • 79% Protestant; 8% Roman Catholic • Prayer Suggestion: Realize that you are insufficient (Eph. 6:10-11).
Optional Reading: John 17

Memory Verse for the Week: I Peter 3:8