Bible Pathways

[Judy Harder]

Read I Kings 12 -- 13

Highlights:

Rehoboam follows advice of foolish friends. Selfish ambition in Jeroboam and Rehoboam causes the nation to split into the Northern and Southern Kingdoms. We learn the consequences of not obeying the Commands of God (I Kin. 13:11-32).

Three tragedies are presented in these chapters. The first is King Jeroboam's concern about his control of the Northern Kingdom if the priest and the people continued to worship at the Temple in Jerusalem. Jeroboam feared that if people returned to Jerusalem to worship, His Northern Kingdom would return to the house of David (I Kin. 12:26-27). Therefore, he built one of his altars in Bethel, close to his southern border not far from Jerusalem. But the true God-appointed priests refused to participate in worship at Dan and Bethel and moved to Jerusalem. In order to maintain his two altars, Jeroboam hired men who were willing to participate in the worship of idols. Whosoever would, he consecrated (13:33).

The second tragedy was the actions of an old prophet who knew the will of God for a young prophet who did what God had called him to do by confronting Jeroboam for his evils. Yet, the old prophet lied when he said that God wanted the young prophet to accept his hospitality and come to his home (13:18). The third tragedy was the untimely death of the young prophet who failed to fully obey the will of God. He received the message of God and had the courage to preach it in the face of the ruthless Jeroboam.. Furthermore, he refused to go home with the king and rejected all his bribes. He fearlessly proclaimed the judgment of God upon the Northern Kingdom's disobedience. But, his downfall came when he was influenced to accept the warm reception of a deceitful old prophet.

The greatest danger to the Church is not the outside world, but fundamentally-sound believers who, like the old prophet, have lost their "first love" and grown indifferent (carefully note Rev. 2:1-4). Beware of the influence of those who should know the right answers, yet whose daily conduct and conversation reveal an inconsistent life. It is not difficult to recognize obvious sins — such as theft, murder, or adultery — and reject them. Christians often miss the Lord's best by becoming involved in something that is not spiritually profitable. Satan will often use an "old prophet" to influence us from doing what we know is the will of God. It is of utmost importance that we, as Christians, guard against plans that distract us from the Word of God. But, seek ye first the Kingdom of God, and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you (Matt. 6:33)

Thought for Today:

No servant can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon (Luke 16:13).
Christ Portrayed:

Through Shemaiah who spoke for the Lord (I Kin. 12:22). Jesus spoke only what the Father told Him: I have not spoken of Myself; but the Father which sent Me, He gave Me a Commandment, what I should say, and what I should speak (John 12:49).
Word Studies:

12:14 scorpions scourges with sharp points; 12:32 high places pagan shrines; 13:6 intreat plead in prayer; 13:32 cried shouted, declared.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Staff: Ilene Wallace • Government Official: Rep. Niki Tsongas (MA) • Country: Denmark (5 million) in northern Europe • Major languages: Danish and Faroese • Religious freedom • 92% Protestant; 1% Muslim; .5% Roman Catholic; .5% cults; .1% Jewish • Prayer Suggestion: Give thanks for the privilege of assembling with other Christians each week (Heb. 10:25).
Optional Reading: Acts 27

Memory Verse for the Week: Psalms 119:12

[Judy Harder]

Read I Kings 14 -- 15

Highlights:

Jeroboam pays dearly for his sins (I Kin. 13:33-34) by the death of his son (14:1-16). From here on we see one king after another leaving a legacy of evil in the sight of the Lord (15:26,34).
The gracious promises of Jehovah, through His prophet Ahijah, were offered to Jeroboam: According to all that thy soul desireth. . . . if thou wilt hearken unto all that I command thee (I Kin. 11:37-38). But Jeroboam made no attempt to follow the Lord. Although God bestows many privileges upon His people, they are always contingent upon obedience.

As an example, Jeroboam forsook his God-given opportunities for what he thought were political advantages. The withered hand, the rent altar, and the message of rebuke from the mysterious young prophet of Judah were some of the many warnings to this self-serving king who, in spite of the warnings continued to reject God.

Then, a time came when Jeroboam's oldest son became seriously ill. Surely in his heart Jeroboam realized that the false priests he had hired could not provide comfort or receive any message from the One True God. But it was also obvious that his calf-gods could not help him.

The seriousness of his son's illness caused him to send his wife, disguised as a peasant, to Ahijah the prophet whom he had ignored, to seek assurance that their son would not die. The aged blind prophet at Shiloh boldly said: Thou hast not been as my servant David . . . But hast done evil above all that were before thee . . . and made thee other gods. . . . Arise . . . the child shall die (14:8-9,12).

What a contrast between the clever, well-planned attempt of King Jeroboam to deceive the prophet of God, and the prophet's open, straightforward answers! God deals in simplicity and truth.

Satan is the instigator of deception and lies. Let us beware of any person whose conversation, conduct, or activities might pull us away from the One True God. We must reject the teaching of anyone who tries to promote other books as equal to the only God-inspired Guide to Life. The Holy Spirit guided the Apostle Paul to write: Though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed. As we said before, so say I now again, If any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed (Gal. 1:8-9).

Thought for Today:

But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed (Gal. 1:.
Christ Revealed:

In Asa's ridding the land of idols and sodomites (I Kin. 15:11-14). Christ cleansed the Temple (Matt. 21:12-13; John 2:13-17). As Christians, we are the Temples of God, bought with His own blood (I Cor. 6:19-20; II Cor. 6:16-17) and are cleansed of all unrighteousness when we confess our sins (I John 1:9).
Word Studies:

14:3 cracknels cakes or fig bars; 14:5 feign herself pretend; 14:6 heavy tidings very sad news; 14:15 groves pagan idol shrines; 15:12 took away the Sodomites banished homosexual male prostitutes; 15:17 suffer allow or permit.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Staff: Dr. John A. Hash • Government Officials: Rep. G.K. Butterfield (NC) and Sen. Daniel Webster (FL) • Djibouti (447,000) in eastern Africa • Major languages: French and Arabic • Limited religious freedom • 91% Muslim; 7% Roman Catholic; .75% Eastern Orthodox; about 300 Protestants • Prayer Suggestion: Diligently seek the Lord in prayer and He will bless your efforts (Heb. 11:6).
Optional Reading: Acts 28

Memory Verse for the Week: Psalms 119:12

[Judy Harder]

Read I Kings 16 -- 18

Highlights:

The prophecy of Jehu against Baasha — what you sow, you shall reap (I Kin. 16:1-7; comp. Gal. 6:7). More evil kings follow until Omri, who wrought evil . . . worse than all that were before him (I Kin. 16:25). Ahab and his evil wife Jezebel; Elijah's prophecy of drought; Elijah fed by ravens; the poor widow whose son he raises from the dead. Read about the thrilling battle between a man of God and a nation of evil men (chap. 17 — 18).
With Ahab's reign began a new and very ungodly era in the history of Israel. Idolatry and wickedness flourished. Following his marriage to Jezebel and the establishment of Phoenecian idolatry, Ahab introduced her worship of Baal as the religion of the nation. This was followed by fierce persecution of the worshipers of Jehovah and the killing of His prophets (I Kin. 18:4,13-14).

There was none like unto Ahab, which did sell (surrender) himself to work wickedness in the sight of the Lord, whom Jezebel his wife stirred up (I Kin. 21:25).

Although worship of Jehovah was forced underground, the Lord always has His faithful few; one of them was Elihjah. This godly prophet dared to be bold for God regardless of evil circumstances or consequences. Elijah . . . said unto Ahab, As the Lord God of Israel liveth, before whom I stand, there shall not be dew nor rain these years, but according to my word (17:1). Elijah was a prophet of God but he was also a man like us (James 5:17). He experienced the hunger caused by this drought which he had foretold. Not only that, but the water of the brook on which Elijah had depended gradually diminished and disappeared.

Christians are representatives of God and are here on earth to confirm His faithfulness. Our attitude, words, and actions must all declare that He alone is our true and inexhaustible Source of supply. It is imperative, therefore, and supremely so in financial matters, that we be in a true sense independent of men and wholly dependent upon God. This means that even though we earn a living with our fellow man, our trust is to be totally in God. If there is any weakness here, He will be robbed of the glory that is due only to Him. As the servants of God, we must show forth the abundance of His spiritual resources and rely on Him for all things.

The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much. Elias (Elijah) was a man subject to like passions as we are, and he prayed earnestly that it might not rain. . . . And he prayed again, and the heaven gave rain (James 5:16-18).

Thought for Today:

If any man serve Me, let him follow Me; and where I am, there shall also my servant be: if any man serve Me, him will My Father honour (John 12:26).
Christ Portrayed:

By Elijah, whom God used to provide flour and oil for the needy widow at Zarephath (I Kin. 17:13-16). Christ our Provider supplies all our needs according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus (Phil. 4:19).
Word Studies:

17:16 wasted not was not used up; 18:4 cut off urdered; 18:19 eat at Jezebel's table are provided for by Jezebel; 18:21 halt aver, undecided.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Official: Rep. Tom Cole (OK), Justice Elena Kagan • Dominica (65,000) in the British West Indies • Major languages: English and French patois • Religious freedom • 75% Roman Catholic; 12% Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: Pray for those who are in adverse circumstances (Heb. 13:3).
Optional Reading: Romans 1

Memory Verse for the Week: Psalms 119:12

 

[Judy Harder]

Friday, April 29, 2011   
 
Read I Kings 19 -- 20

Highlights:

Wicked Queen Jezebel threatens the life of Elijah to morrow (I Kin. 19:2). He is miraculously sustained by angels (19:9-12). The plan of God to provide a successor for Elijah (19:15-19). God uses wicked Ahab and proves to him that I am the Lord (20:28-34). Ahab's death foretold.
Because of Ahab's wickedness, God withheld rain from all of Israel for three years. Then He told Elijah to go again to Ahab. Elijah challenged the king to assemble all the prophets of Baal at Mount Carmel to prove who really is the only living God. Elijah proved that the God of Israel is the One True God. Elijah probably expected the miracle on Mount Carmel and the execution of the prophets of Baal to turn the nation from idols and bring national repentance. It didn't!

Our hero may have expected that his victory on Mount Carmel would put the fear of God into the idolatrous queen, prepare her to listen with respect to his message, and encourage the king to bring about true worship of the One True God. But it didn't! On the contrary, the Satanic nature of Jezebel was aroused, and she swore revenge for the slaughter of her priests and demanded that the prophet be put to death.

Disheartened, Elijah said: It is enough; now, O Lord, take away my life — meaning: I am a failure as Your prophet. You can replace me (I Kin. 19:4). God did not rebuke, punish, or condemn him for his disappointment. But neither did God answer his prayer for death. Instead, He gave him rest and food. On the strength of that food, he went forty days and forty nights across the dry desert of Sinai until he came to Horeb, the mount of God (19:, where he entered a cave. Then in rapid succession, the most demonstrative symbols of Jehovah's mighty power — storm, earthquake, and fire — passed before him. Not in these, but in the still small voice, the prophet discovered the true greatness of his God-given success on Mount Carmel (19:12).

Elijah desired that Israel be transformed into the Kingdom of God. Much was accomplished, but his real encouragement was in the seven thousand who had remained faithful to the One True God (19:18). Elijah had fulfilled the will of God.

God permits days when heavy burdens press hard upon our hearts. During times like these, like Elijah, we are tempted to assume that we are failures. Elijah's experience should encourage every Christian to look beyond appearances and listen in order to hear the still small voice of God. Let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not (don't give up) (Gal. 6:9).

Thought for Today:

Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin (Rom. 6:6).
Christ Portrayed:

By the unnamed prophet who prophesied victory to King Ahab so that he would know his destiny was controlled by God: Thou shalt know that I am the Lord (I Kin. 20:13,28). Thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ (I Cor. 15:57).
Word Studies:

19:8 Horeb Mount Sinai; 19:14 jealous zealous; 19:21 instruments yokes; 20:11 harness armor; 20:12 set yourselves in array get ready to attack; 20:24 rooms positions, places.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Officials: Rep. Mo Brookes (AL), Rep. Rodney Frelinghuysen (NJ) and Sen. Debbie Stabenow (MI) • Country: Dominican Republic (8 million) in the West Indies, occupying the eastern two-thirds of the island of Hispaniola • Major language: Spanish • Religious freedom • 96% Roman Catholic (many are spiritists); 2% Protestant; 1% Afro-American spiritist • Prayer Suggestion: Pray to be content with and thankful for the things you have (Heb. 13:5).
Optional Reading: Romans 2

Memory Verse for the Week: Psalms 119:12

 

[Judy Harder]

April 30, 2011   

Bible Pathways

Read I Kings 21 -- 22

Highlights:

Jezebel murders Naboth to satisfy Ahab's coveting a poor man's vineyard; Elijah foretells the death of Ahab and Jezebel (I Kin. 21:17-24) and it comes to pass (22:37-38; II Kin. 9:30-37). Jehoshaphat does right in the eyes of the Lord. . . . the sodomites . . . he took out of the land (22:43,46).
Jehoshaphat, king of Judah, joined affinity (allied himself through marriage) with Ahab (II Chr. 18:1; II Kin. 8:18). In the third year of Israel's peace with Syria, Ahab entertained Jehoshaphat with royal hospitality and then took advantage of the occasion to persuade him to combine their military forces against the growing power of Syria. When war appeared imminent, Ahab called all 400 of his prophets, but none from the True God, for counsel. They unanimously declared in favor of going to war and assured the two kings that they would be victorious. But godly Jehoshaphat, having an uneasy feeling with the unanimous decision while facing such a grave crisis, asked for prophets of God to be called. Ahab told him: There is yet one man, Micaiah the son of Imlah, by whom we may inquire of the Lord: but I hate him (I Kin. 22:.

Ahab sent the messengers to get Micaiah. The messengers attempted to persuade Micaiah to agree with the false prophets and assured him that by doing so he would win the king's favor and be released from prison. But neither fears nor favors tempted Micaiah to betray his calling. He refused to be intimidated even by the presence of two kings and Ahab's 400 "experts." Micaiah's one vote of opposition was rejected by Ahab who fulfilled the very prophecy proclaimed by Micaiah. There were 400 "Yes" votes to 1 "No" vote — a miserable minority, but truth is seldom with the majority. Though he was slapped, dragged back to prison, and threatened with cruel treatment, faithful Micaiah persisted in maintaining the truthfulness of his message and called upon the people to bear witness to it (22:27-28).

When one is aware of it, the presence of God will transform a dungeon into a palace. I saw the Lord was the response of this lonely prophet (22:19). A revelation from the Lord revealed the shallowness of earthly greatness. Many have sacrificed Truth and good conscience for popular opinion or earthly treasures. Micaiah chose to wait for future, eternal rewards.

We admire the Apostle Paul who said: None of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the Gospel of the grace of God (Acts 20:24).

Thought for Today:

(For He that wrought effectually in Peter to the apostleship of the circumcision, the same was mighty in me towards the Gentiles) (Gal. 2:.
Christ Portrayed:

By Micaiah, who would say only what God instructed him to say (I Kin. 22:14). Jesus faithfully told others only what God told Him to say. Then said Jesus unto them . . . I do nothing of Myself; but as My Father hath taught Me, I speak these things (John 8:28; 12:49-50).
Word Studies:

21:27 softly sadly, subdued; 22:3 be still to nothing; 22:11 push bore; 22:13 with one mouth unanimously; 22:16 adjure thee but you under oath; 22:34 at a venture without specific aim; harness armor; 22:48 broken brecked.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Staff: Rick Hash • Government Officials: Rep. Dan Benishek (MI) and Rep. Bobby Scott (VA) • Ecuador (13 million) in South America, crossed by the equator • Major language: Spanish • Religious freedom • 91% Roman Catholic; 3% Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: Offering praise and thanks to God is a sacrifice pleasing to Him (Heb. 13:15).
Optional Reading: Romans 3

Memory Verse for the Week: Psalms 119:12

[Judy Harder]

Bible Pathways
     
Read II Kings 1 -- 3
Highlights:

Death of Ahaziah King of Israel; Elijah taken up by a miraculous whirlwind; Elisha purifies Jericho's water; Elisha ridiculed. History records one important question in the life of each king: Did he keep the Commandments of God? All of us will face this review: Do our actions and prayers indicate there is a God whom we desire to control our lives (II Kin. 1:3)?
The ministry of the prophet Elijah was finished — a ministry of unshakable loyalty to God. Note his modesty, a revelation of his true gifts that he prayed for. Elijah did not assemble Israel for the "great event." He did not summon Jehoram and all the glory of the palace court in Samaria to witness his triumphant ascent into heaven. His only audience consisted of Elisha and, from a distance, the astounded fifty students of Jericho (II Kin. 2:7-12). Elijah said unto Elisha, Ask what I shall do for thee, before I be taken away from thee. And Elisha said, I pray thee, let a double portion of thy spirit be upon me. And he said . . . if thou see me when I am taken from thee, it shall be so unto thee. . . . And it came to pass, as they still went on, and talked, that, behold, there appeared a chariot of fire, and horses of fire, and parted them both (Elijah and Elisha) asunder; and Elijah went up by a whirlwind into heaven (2:9-11).

It is always wise to consider the character of the servants whom God has used in the past. By so doing, we see the kind of persons whom God will choose and use in the present and future. Carefully consider the legacy left by Elijah and Elisha. All of us will leave a legacy at the end of our lives; hopefully a legacy of moral and spiritual values. We cannot detach ourselves from this often unconscious influence upon others. How closely we live in obedience to the Word of God will determine the legacy we leave. Let us live each day determined to live and influence others to live in obedience to Christ.

Where are the powerful but evil King Ahab and his wicked wife Jezebel that brought about the downful of their beautiful Samaria at this point? The prophet Elijah alone provided a legacy of spiritual treasures for all to share. Where is the "powerful" Herod, who beheaded John the Baptist; or King Agrippa, who ridiculed Paul, saying: Thou art beside thyself (out of your mind); much learning doth make thee mad (Acts 26:24)?

The Apostle Paul's love for Christ continues to influence all who love the Lord not to be intimidated by the forces of evil, but, like Paul, be able to say: I will preach the Word. . . . (to) make full proof. . . . (for) there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, shall give me at that day (II Tim. 4:2,5,8).

Thought for Today:

He is the Rock, His work is perfect: for all His ways are judgment: a God of Truth and without iniquity, just and right is He (Deut. 32:4).
Christ Revealed:

In the taking up of Elijah in the whirlwind and the dropping of his mantle — a symbol of the presence and power of God that remain with His faithful servant (II Kin. 2:8-15). This is a type of the ascension of the Lord Jesus Christ and His sending the Holy Spirit to indwell and empower believers to evangelize the world. He was parted from them, and carried up into heaven (Luke 24:51-53; Acts 1 — 2).
Word Studies:

1:8 girt with, wearing; girdle of leather about his loins,  garment around his waist; 2:19 naught polluted, bad; 2:24 tare, mauled or mangled; 3:9 fetched a compass, circled around; made a roundabout march; 3:27 offered him, burned him alive as a sacrifice to a god of Moab.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for our Military worldwide • Government Official: Rep. Ed Perlmutter (CO) • Country: Egypt (66 million) in northeastern Africa • Major languages: Arabic and English • Christians are not permitted to evangelize Muslims • 87.5% Muslim; 12% Christian; .5% Other • Prayer Suggestion: Ask the Lord to work in your life in whatever way pleases Him (Heb. 13:21).
Optional Reading: Romans 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: Proverbs 28:9

[Judy Harder]

May 02, 2011   

Read II Kings 4 -- 5
Highlights:

A widow's oil; her two sons are delivered from slavery (II Kin. 4:1-7). A childless couple have a son (4:8-37). Elisha sustains life (typifying Jesus, the Bread of Life) (4:38-44). Naaman is miraculously healed of his incurable leprosy (5:1-19) — foreshadowing Jesus, who alone can restore an incurable life of sin.
God tells us of a certain woman of the wives of the sons of the prophets (that came to) Elisha, saying, Thy servant my husband is dead; and thou knowest that thy servant did fear the Lord: and the creditor is come to take unto him my two sons to be bondmen (II Kin. 4:1). The two sons would be slaves until the year of jubile (Lev. 25:39-40). This helpless widow poured out her heart to Elisha.

The prophet directed her to go, borrow . . . empty vessels (II Kin. 4:3). We may ask: "Why not borrow vessels with something in them?" But that would have taken her further into debt. And that should remind us of the dangers of going into debt. There is a danger of using money which really is not ours, of living beyond what the Lord has provided and incurring liabilities which we have no assurance of repaying.

This widow's situation assures us that our loving Father in heaven is concerned about our personal needs, struggles, and sorrows. The Bible is partly a history of nations, but it is much more a history of individuals whom the Lord desires to save and to provide for and to sustain. These biblical historical facts are written for our encouragement so that we may pray to the same Lord and know He cares and hears our prayers.

The only possession the prophet's widow had was a small vessel of oil (4:2); but God can take the little we have and make it into something precious to the Almighty Creator as we give ourselves to Him.

To God, the individual is never lost in the crowd. It could be just one woman who touches the hem of His garment when He is surrounded by multitudes (Matt. 9:20), but she is not ignored by the Lord; or a sorrowing widow whose only son was in a coffin, ready to be buried (Luke 7:12), but Jesus interrupted a funeral procession to raise him up. There was a helpless cripple lying near the pool of Bethesda who had no one who cared for him (John 5:7), but Jesus had compassion and healed him.

Since God is the Creator of all things, it is not hard to believe that there is no personal need that He cannot meet.

Seek ye first the Kingdom of God, and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you (Matt. 6:33).

Thought for Today:

In Whom also we have an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of Him who worketh all things after the counsel of His own will (Eph. 1:11).
Christ Revealed:

By the meal that took the poison out of the pot (II Kin. 4:40-41). Meal, made of crushed grain, speaks of Christ, who was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised (crushed) for our iniquities (Is. 53:5), thereby removing the poison of sin from us.
Word Studies:

4:3 borrow not a few,  get as many as you can; 4:6 stayed, ceased flowing; 4:10 candlestick, oil lamp; 4:27 vexed, deeply distressed; 4:29 Gird up thy loins, Fasten your loose, flowing garments with a belt.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcastss sponsored by Mary Hoffmeyer • Government Official: Rep. Peter Welch (VT) • Staff: Chris Robison • Country: El Salvador (5.9 million) in Central America • Major language: Spanish • Some intolerance of Protestants by government officials • 75% Catholic; 20% Protestant; .5% Baha'i; 2.5% Other; 2% None • Prayer Suggestion: Ask the Lord for wisdom as you read His Word, and it will be given to you (James 1:5).
Optional Reading: Romans 5

Memory Verse for the Week: Proverbs 28:9

[Judy Harder]

May 03, 2011   

Read II Kings 6 -- 8
Highlights:

Yes, it is normal to be so in tune with God that you hear and do all His Commandments (II Kin. 6:15). The ax head made to float; the King of Syria attacks Israel (6:; famine in Samaria; Elisha's prophecy fulfilled; the Holy Spirit guides them. God uses the most "unlikely" means to satisfy the prophet's hunger (6:24 — 7:20).
Ben-hadad, King of Syria, was sick, but he was also an idol worshiper. At his request Hazael went to the prophet Elisha to ask if the king would recover from his sickness. Elisha told Hazael to tell the king: "Yes." Then Elisha began to weep and said: I know the evil that thou wilt do to the children of Israel (II Kin. 8:12). Hazael appeared shocked as he asked: Is thy servant a dog (8:13) that he would be so wicked? With deceptive concern, Hazael waited for his opportunity. Then he took a thick cloth, and dipped it in water, and spread it on his (Ben-hadad's) face, so that he died: And Hazael reigned in his stead (8:15). Covetousness can blind a person to the cruel, unscrupulous actions of which he is capable in order to satisfy greed. Hazael was willing to stoop to any depth of evil in order to gain a favored position immediately. Perhaps in earlier years, Hazael would have been horrified at the thought that he would heartlessly assassinate his royal master.

Circumstances confront us with new temptations which were never before felt. Had Joseph's brothers been told that one day they would consider murdering or selling him into slavery, they undoubtedly would also have asked: Is thy servant a dog (8:13) that he would be so wicked? Like Hazael they were men and sinners by nature (Eph. 2:3). Apart from the indwelling Christ, man yields readily to the passions which war against his soul; he gives way to the circumstances which appeal to his greed. Believers are urged: Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof. . . . For sin shall not have dominion over you (Rom. 6:12,14).

Hazael could have followed the example of King David who, many years earlier, after he was anointed king by Samuel, had the opportunity to murder Saul. But David refused to take matters into his own hands; he knew that the timing of God was best.

We are perfectly safe when we commit our desires to the Lord first and yield ourselves to be guided by His Word. Only he who is kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation (I Pet. 1:5) is safe.

Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For Thine is the Kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen (Matt. 6:13).

Thought for Today:

And he said, The Lord is my Rock, and my Fortress, and my Deliverer (II Sam. 22:2).
Christ Portrayed:

By Elisha, who wept when he realized what Hazael would do to Israel and its people (II Kin. 8:11-12). We are reminded of Jesus as He wept over Jerusalem: O Jerusalem, Jerusalem . . . how often would I have gathered thy children together . . . and ye would not! (Matt. 23:37).
Word Studies:

6:1 strait small, too confined; 6:30 within, next to, underneath; 7:5 uttermost part, borders; 8:11 settled his countenance, stared intensely; 8:26 daughter, granddaughter.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by A Family That Loves Jesus • Staff: Dan Murton • Government Officials: Rep. Ralph Hall (TX), Gov. C.L. Butch Otter (ID), Sen. David Vitter (LA), Sen. Jim Risch (ID), and Sen. Ron Wyden (OR) • Country: Equatorial Guinea (466,000) in western Africa • Major language: Spanish • Freedom for churches at this time • 71% Roman Catholic; 19% ancestral spirit worship and medicine men; 6% Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: Pray with unwavering faith so that your prayers may be answered (James 1:5-7).
Optional Reading: Romans 6

Memory Verse for the Week: Proverbs 28:9

[Judy Harder]

Read II Kings 9 -- 10

Highlights:

Elisha called one of the children of the prophets, and said unto him . . . go to . . . Jehu . . . and say: Thus saith the Lord God of Israel, I have anointed thee king over over Israel (II Kin. 9:1-3). Jehu executes King Joram and King Ahaziah. Prophecy of Jezebel's death fulfilled. Baal worshipers are executed (10:34-36).
Jehu was very popular after he became a powerful captain in Israel's army during the Syrian war. He was known throughout the entire army and country for his speed in driving his horses, for he driveth furiously (II Kin. 9:20). Of all the kings of the ten northern tribes, only Jehu was anointed king of the Lord to destroy the house (family) of Ahab. When Jehu told his fellow officers that he had been anointed king, they sounded the well-known blast of the ram's horn which always accompanied the inauguration of a King of Israel (9:13).

Jehu crossed the Jordan and drove his chariot impetuously to Jezreel. It came to pass, when Joram saw Jeshu, that he said, Is it peace, Jehu? And he answered, What peace, so long as the whoredoms of thy mother Jezebel are so many? (9:22). Jehu killed Joram (Jehoram), the reigning King of Israel, and Ahaziah, King of Judah. Jehu then had Jezebel thrown out of a window, and he trampled her body with his horses. And when he was come in, he did eat and drink, and said, Go, see now this cursed woman, and bury her: for she is a king's daughter. And they went to bury her: but they found no more of her than the skull, and the feet, and the palms of her hands (9:34-35). Jehu said: This is the Word of the Lord, which He spake by His servant Elijah the Tishbite, saying, In the portion of Jezreel shall dogs eat the flesh of Jezebel (9:36; see I Kin. 21:23).

Jezebel had been a violent, unmerciful queen. When God was ready to execute judgment against her, she was plummeted from her exalted position like garbage. Jehu executed all of Ahab's family and all the Baal worshipers were then executed (II Kin. 10:18-28). How watchful we need to be lest at any time we be found helping Satan in his worldly schemes. When you are making plans to do something, ask yourself if you were to do it, would you be able to follow Jesus' command: If any man will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me (allow Christ to be Lord of your activitites) (Matt. 16:24). Many times, evil people seem to prosper (5:45); but God ultimately will execute judgment against all who oppose Him.

It is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment (Heb. 9:27).

Thought for Today:

The God of my rock; in Him will I trust: He is my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my high tower, and my refuge, my Saviour; thou savest me from violence (II Sam. 22:3).
Christ Portrayed:

By Elisha, who sent one of the sons of the prophets with oil to anoint Jehu (II Kin. 9:1-6). Oil symbolizes the Holy Spirit, and the Lord sent the Holy Spirit to anoint believers (John 14:16-17; 16:13; Acts 1:8; compare I Sam. 16:13). The anointing which ye have received of Him abideth (lives) in you (I John 2:27).
Word Studies:

9:23 treachery, treason; 9:30 tired her head, adorned her hair; 10:3 Look even out the best and meetest, Select the most capable; 10:27 draught house, public toilet.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Official: Rep. Colleen Hanabusa (HI) • Country: Eritrea (4 million) in eastern Africa • Major languages: English and Tigrinya • Religious persecution • 51% Muslim; 40% Eritrean Orthodox; 4% Catholic; 1.5% Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: Pray in faith, without doubting (James 1:6).
Optional Reading: Romans 7

Memory Verse for the Week: Proverbs 28:9

[Judy Harder]

Read II Kings 11 -- 13
Highlights:

Athaliah murders all but one of David's descendants; God protects the baby Joash, who eventually is crowned king; Joash repairs the Temple and restores worship; evil reign of Jehoahaz, King of Israel.
There are two Joashes in II Kings. There is Joash, the king of Judah (chap. 11; 12; 13:10), and there is Joash (Jehoash), the King of the Northern Kingdom of Israel, mentioned here, who often rejected Elisha's admonitions to worship God and continued to worship Baal in the groves. Now Elisha was . . . sick . . . whereof he died. And Joash the King of Israel came down unto him (II Kin. 13:14). It was quite remarkable for King Joash to visit the dying prophet. It implies that the king knew that the man of God had been Israel's spiritual strength and they needed his counsel and prayers. Joash wept over his face as he lay dying, and referred to him as the chariot of Israel, and the horsemen thereof. And Elisha said unto him, Take bow and arrows. And he took unto him bow and arrows. And he said to the King of Israel, Put thine hand upon the bow. And he put his hand upon it: and Elisha put his hands upon the king's hands (13:15-16).

At that time Israel was at war with Syria. As a sign that God intended to give victory to His people, the king was instructed to take the bow and arrows. Elisha, as the representative of God, put his hand upon the king's hands. King Joash was then instructed to strike the ground, but he only struck it three times. The man of God was wroth (angry) with him, and said, Thou shouldest have smitten five or six times; then hadst thou smitten Syria till thou hadst consumed it (13:19). If the king had struck the ground six times, he would have shot six arrows and would have had complete victory. As the arrow was shot through the air, the prophet said the arrow represented the Lord's deliverance of His people from Syrian domination. Deliverance is of the Lord, but many times He uses humans to accomplish the task. Joash had to actively take the bow and arrows, but God sovereignly would guide His people. This illustrates the Scriptures: Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might (Eccl. 9:10). The battle is the Lord's (I Sam. 17:47).

We should not let our arrows lie still as if to say: "We are trusting God to shoot our arrows." It is foolish to just wait upon the Lord. However, it is an equally serious error to neglect the hand of God resting upon our activity. You can be sure that Jesus meant: Without Me ye can do nothing (John 15:5).

Thought for Today:

In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths (Prov. 3:6).
Christ Portrayed:

By Jehoiada, the priest who protected Joash and, in holy judgment, had Athaliah put to death (II Kin. 11:4-16). Christ keeps us safe to fulfill His will and will return to judge all who obey not the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ (II Thess. 1:.
Word Studies:

11:7 two parts, two companies; 11:8 compass, surround; 12:5 breaches, damaged places; 12:11 laid it out, paid it to them; 13:6 the grove, place to worship the goddess Asherah (Ashtoreth).
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Thursday Morning Prayer • Government Officials: Rep. Charles Gonzalez (TX) and Rep. Ted Deutch (FL) • Country: Country: Estonia (1.47 million) northeastern Europe • Major languages: Estonian and Russian • Religious freedom • 38.4% Protestant; 20.3% Orthodox; 1% Roman Catholic; 1% Muslim; .3% Jewish; 39% non-Religious/Other • Prayer Suggestion: Pray for grace to overcome temptation, and God will reward you (James 1:12).
Optional Reading: Romans 8

Memory Verse for the Week: Proverbs 28:9