Bible Pathways

[Judy Harder]

Read I Chronicles 14 -- 16

Highlights:

David is blessed by God and his reign prospers. Ark of the Covenant brought to Jerusalem with much thanksgiving. See how our sacrifices are vital to our worship (I Chr. 15:16-24).
During the forty years that Saul reigned over Israel, the Ark was ignored. But when David became king, he was deeply concerned that the Ark — above which the presence of God dwelt — have a central place in his kingdom. He knew the nation's success depended upon the presence of God being in their midst, so he said: Let us bring again the Ark of our God to us: for we inquired not at it in the days of Saul (I Chr. 13:3).

David first attempted to bring the Ark to Jerusalem on a new cart drawn by oxen, but this was a violation of the Law of God (Ex. 25:13-15; Num. 4:15; 7:9). As Uzzah reached out to steady the tilting Ark on the cart, he was struck dead (II Sam. 6:1-8).

On the second occasion David gathered all Israel together to Jerusalem, to bring up the Ark of the Lord unto His place, which he had prepared for it (I Chr. 15:3). David carefully obeyed the Word of God, telling the priests to sanctify themselves and to bear the Ark of God upon their shoulders as Moses commanded according to the Word of the Lord (15:11-15).

On that day, David provided an inspiring psalm for his choir to sing. It still lifts our spirits as we worship our wonderful Lord. David proclaimed to the world: Give thanks unto the Lord, call upon His Name; make known His deeds among the people. . . . sing psalms unto Him, talk ye of all His wondrous works. . . . rejoice. . . . Be ye mindful always of His Covenant (Agreement); the Word which He commanded to a thousand generations. . . . Sing unto the Lord, all the earth; shew forth from day to day His salvation. Declare His glory among the heathen. . . . For great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised. . . . Give unto the Lord the glory due unto His Name: bring an offering, and come before Him: worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness. . . . let men say among the nations, The Lord reigneth (16:8-31). Is it any surprise that David was a man after His own heart (the heart of God) (I Sam. 13:14; Acts 13:22)? Yes, the Lord reigns. He is still Sovereign, and the world still needs to hear us praise the Lord and talk . . . of all His wondrous works.

The work of God must be done in His way — not in our way — if He is to be glorified. It is only as we serve the Lord according to His Word that we enjoy His presence and receive His blessing. Let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear (Heb. 12:28).

Thought for Today:

I will say unto God my Rock, Why hast Thou forgotten me? why go I mourning because of the oppression of the enemy (Ps. 42:9)?
Christ Revealed:

Through David's fame and exaltation (I Chr. 14:17). God highly exalted Christ, our Redeemer, and gave Him a Name which is above every name (Phil. 2:9-11).
Word Studies:

14:13 spread themselves abroad made a raid, invaded.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Lillian Conley Ousley • Staff: Ben Wallace • Government Officials: Rep. John Conyers, Jr. (MI), Rep. James Moran (VA), and Sen. Dan Coats (IN) • Country: Greece (10.5 million) in southeastern Europe • Major languages: Greek and English • Government restrictions on witnessing to others about Christ • 87% Orthodox; 8% Old Calendar Orthodox; 2% Catholic; 1.2% Muslim; .5% Jehovah's Witness; .3% Protestant; 1% Other • Prayer Suggestion: Wives, pray for a quiet, loving spirit to win your husband to Christ (I Pet. 3:1-2).
Optional Reading: I Corinthians 3

Memory Verse for the Week: John 15:7

[Judy Harder]

Read I Chronicles 17 -- 20

Highlights:

King David and the Ark of the Covenant. The Covenant with David. David's kingdom is fully established. A misunderstood kindness leads to a battle, and the Ammonites and Syrians are defeated.
Of no other person in Hebrew history do we find David's equal in the often-recorded phrase, David inquired of the Lord (I Sam. 23:2,4; 30:8; II Sam. 2:1; 5:19,23; 21:1; I Chr. 14:10,14). All of us need to meditate upon his prayer in today's reading. Although he was the King of Israel, he opened his prayer with a deep sense of humility and dependency: Who am I, O Lord God? (17:16). Then he magnified the Lord: O Lord, there is none like Thee (17:20).

His love for the Word of God and his prayer life were the key to his greatness. In fact, knowing the Word of God is the foundation to anyone's true wisdom, that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God (I Cor. 2:12). Although we are reminded of the importance of prayer, not many learn to actually take time to pray and even less to read through our prayer manual — the Word of God. When we are faced with a critical situation we may say with our lips that only prayer can solve it, yet we often talk, worry, and scheme more than we pray. Other activities are given priority while prayer is often put aside for a more convenient time.

Christians are usually loyal in attending worship on the Lord's Day because Christ also loved the Church . . . That He might sanctify and cleanse it (Eph. 5:25-26). The Church is essential for spiritual stability. If we fail to be faithful to the Church, we fail to accomplish the perfect plan of God in our lives.

Once we have been awakened to the importance of knowing His Word, taking time to pray, and being loyal to His Church, numerous things will interfere with our intent to remain faithful. It may be a knock at the door, the ring of a telephone, children causing a disturbance, or other unexpected situations. These are not coincidences; they may be Satan's planned strategy to keep us from praying. On the other hand, they could be the best our Lord has for our lives to give ourselves to prayer and to reading His Word. Both God and Satan know that spiritual work which is established on the foundation of prayer and obedience to His Word will eventually prevail. Because of this, Satan's strategy is to keep Christians so busy about other things that they fail to allow Christ to be Lord of their lives.

Take . . . the Sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God: Praying always (Eph. 6:17-18).

Thought for Today:

He only is my Rock and my salvation; He is my defence; I shall not be greatly moved (Ps. 62:2).
Christ Portrayed:

By David, the shepherd-king (I Chr. 17:7; comp. Matt. 1:1-2; Rom. 1:3), symbolic of Christ as the Good Shepherd (John 10:11) and King of saints (all believers) (Rev. 15:3).
Word Studies:

17:7 sheepcote, pasturelands; 18:4 houghed, crippled by cutting leg tendons; 19:4 hard by, close to; 19:6 odious, detestable, offensive.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in honor of Bonnie Wilhite • Staff: Mary Kay Wagner • Government Officials: Rep. George Miller (CA) and Sen. Ben Nelson (NE) • Country: Greenland (60,000) northeast of Canada • Major languages: Eskimo dialects and Danish • Religious freedom • 98% Protestant; .1% Roman Catholic • Prayer Suggestion: Husbands, give honor to your wives, or else your prayers will be obstructed (I Pet. 3:7).
Optional Reading: I Corinthians 4

Memory Verse for the Week: John 15:7

[Judy Harder]

Friday, May 27, 2011   


Bible Pathways
       
Read II Chronicles 21 -- 24

Highlights:

Jehoram's evil reign over Judah. The Lord smote him . . . with an incurable disease . . . he . . . departed without being desired (II Chr. 21:18-20). Notice verses 24:20-21. King Ahaziah also walked in the ways of the house of Ahab . . . to do wickedly (22:3). Athaliah takes over Judah's throne, murdering all her grandchildren except Joash, who was hidden by Jehoiada the priest. He was destined for the genealogy of Jesus. Joash's reign was influenced by Jehoaida; the Temple repaired; and revival in the land. After the death of Jehoiada, Joash does evil.
Jehoshaphat was a successful ruler and his Kingdom of Judah flourished, but he foolishly put policy before principle in arranging his son Jehoram's marriage to Ahab's wicked daughter Athaliah. As is often the case, Jehoram was affected more by the influence of his wife's idolatrous background than by the godly influence of his father. After the death of Jehoshaphat, his son Jehoram took control of the kingdom. He proceeded to destroy all the godly influence of his father's reign. He also slew all his brethren (brothers) with the sword. . . . And he walked in the way of the kings of Israel . . . for he had the daughter of Ahab to wife: and he wrought (did) that which was evil in the eyes of the Lord. . . . Moreover he . . . caused the inhabitants of Jerusalem to commit fornication, and compelled (forced) Judah thereto (II Chr. 21:4,6,11).

Jehoram is a fearful warning to all parents of the importance of their children marrying a godly person. Can a young couple stand side by side before God and take their wedding vows to be perfectly united with each other in all but the Supreme God? Can they have every interest in common — except the deepest interest of all? Can they talk about everyone else with the most openhearted confidence except for the most precious and personal of all — the Lord Jesus Christ? One is preparing for an inheritance incorruptible (I Pet. 1:4) and the other treasureth up . . . wrath against the day of wrath (Rom. 2:5).

An unequally yoked (II Cor. 6:14) marriage usually means either a cross (Luke 9:23) to bear for the life of the Christian or that Christian turning back again into the world. It is a serious mistake for a young couple considering marriage to have the same interests in everything except their relationship to Christ. An unequally yoked marriage often results in a lifetime of regret.

God still asks: What fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness (II Cor. 6:14)?

Thought for Today:

Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of Mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock (Matt. 7:24).
Christ Portrayed:

By Jehoiada, the high priest, who faithfully hid and protected Joash (II Chr. 23:1-11). Jesus is our High Priest (Heb. 5:5-10), and we are hid with Christ in God (Col. 3:3).
Word Studies:

21:9 compassed him in, surrounded him; 21:19 of sore diseases, in severe suffering; no burning for him, no funeral fire to honor him; 22:10 seed royal, royal offspring of the house of David; 23:9 bucklers, small shields; 23:14 Have her forth of the ranges, take her outside beyond the Temple under guard; 24:13 in his state, in its original condition; 24:25 great diseases, intense suffering.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Staff: Dr. John A. Hash • Government Official: Rep. Peter DeFazio (OR) • Country: Iceland (272,000) at the northern end of the Atlantic • Major language: Icelandic • Religious freedom • 94% Protestant; 6% Roman Catholic • Prayer Suggestion: Go to God in prayer with a heart and life that are keeping His Commandments and He will answer you (I John 4:7-8).
Optional Reading: I Corinthians 14

Memory Verse for the Week: John 15:10

[Judy Harder]

May 28, 2011     

Bible Pathways
Read II Chronicles 25 -- 27

Highlights:

Three kings in today's reading all began doing right in the eyes of the Lord. But, from a great spiritual beginning, Amaziah turned to idols and God destroyed him. Uzziah did that which was right in the sight of the Lord (II Chr. 26:4) and became a powerful king, but he presumed to take to himself the position of priest. Consequently, the Lord struck him with leprosy. Then his son Jotham reigned as king and became mighty, because he prepared his ways before the Lord his God (27:6).
Amaziah, of Judah, hired the army of Israel to fight Edom when he should have prayed and relied upon God for direction. He did that which was right in the sight of the Lord, but not with a perfect heart (II Chr. 25:2). When a prophet advised against his hasty action, Amaziah expressed concern about the money he had already paid out for defense. The prophet assured him that God was able to make up any loss he would sustain if he would only submit to and trust in God.

Like Amaziah, we are prone to seek help from worldly resources when we are confronted with a crisis. What about the sacrifices we make and the money it may cost in order to do the Lord's will? Such losses might leave us with a helpless feeling; but we would only be giving up trash for treasures and rags for riches. Consider Job; the Lord is able to give us much more than we may lose when we accept the loss and trust Him. After all, we never lose anything of lasting value by totally relying on God. In fact, by giving God first place we gain the best in life, which eternally affects our destiny in heaven.

After winning the war with the Edomites, Amaziah made another serious mistake of spiritual compromise. He brought the gods of the children of Seir, and set them up to be his gods . . . Wherefore the anger of the Lord was kindled against Amaziah, and He sent unto him a prophet, which said unto him, Why hast thou sought after the gods of the people, which could not deliver their own people out of thy hand? (25:14-15).

The Bible was provided by our Creator and is the One True Source of wisdom for daily decisions and direction. As we read the Word of God with a desire to do His will, the Spirit of Christ — the Living Word — guides our thoughts and actions (John 16:13).

Satan is like a wolf in sheep's clothing. He knows his time is short, and he will take every advantage to deceive many through their ignorance of the Word of God.

Labour not for the meat which perisheth, but for that meat which endureth unto everlasting life, which the Son of Man shall give unto you: for Him hath God the Father sealed (John 6:27).

Thought for Today:

And every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands for My Name's sake, shall receive an hundredfold, and shall inherit everlasting life (Matt. 19:29).
Christ Portrayed:

By Azariah the high priest who stood between King Uzziah and the Altar, because there was only one proper way to approach the Lord God of Israel and that was through the service of the priests (II Chr. 26:17-18). Jesus, our great High Priest (Heb. 4:14), is The Only Way for anyone to come to God. Jesus saith unto him, I am The Way, The Truth, and The Life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by Me (John 14:6).
Word Studies:

25:21 saw one another in the face, faced each other in battle; 26:10 husbandry, farming.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Bible Pathway Printer: Ambrose Printing Staff, Nashville TN • Government Officials: Sen. Marco Rubio (FL), Rep. Steve King (IA), Rep. Tom Petri (WI), Rep. Aaron Schock (IL), Rep. Scott Rigell (VA), and Gov. Mark Sanford (SC) • Country: India (986 million) in southern Asia • Major languages: Hindi and English • Religious freedom, but increasing harassment and persecution of Christians by religious radicals • 78% Hindu; 12% Muslim (mostly Sunni); 3% Christian; 2.5% Indigenous; 2% Sikh; .9% Buddhist; .5% Jain; .3% Parsi; .2% Baha'i; .1% Jewish; .5% non-Religious • Prayer Suggestion: Ask the Lord to fill you with love for the unlovely (I John 4:7-8).
Optional Reading: I Corinthians 15

Memory Verse for the Week: John 15:10

[Judy Harder]

 May 29, 2011   

Bible Pathways
     
Read II Chronicles 28 -- 30

Highlights:

Another era of wickedness begins with King Ahaz spiritually defiling the whole nation. Consequences (II Chr. 28:19). After his death, revival comes with godly King Hezekiah. Worship is restored in the Temple; they keep the Passover; and confession is made to the Lord (30:27).
Hezekiah began restoring biblical principles and true worship of God. He recognized the blessings of God as of utmost importance and as most essential. This was in striking contrast to the ungodly example of his wicked father and the voice of a corrupt court. Hezekiah. . . . did that which was right in the sight of the Lord (II Chr. 29:1-2). He trusted in the Lord God of Israel; so that after him was none like him among all the kings of Judah, nor any that were before him. . . . And the Lord was with him (II Kin. 18:4-5,7).

The secret of his inspiration and power is explained by the recorded facts: He clave to the Lord and the Lord was with him (18:6-7). Thus did Hezekiah throughout all Judah, and wrought that which was good and right and Truth before the Lord his God. And in every work that he began in the service of the House of God, and in the Law, and in the Commandments, to seek his God, he did it with all his heart, and prospered (II Chr. 31:20-21). Hezekiah repaired and cleansed the Temple. Under extreme difficulty and danger, he was determined to do the will of God: It is in mine heart (29:10). No compromise, no half-measures, no delay. There is a strong spiritual link between what we think of God and what we think is the most important to do first. Without exception, every Christian should seek . . . first the Kingdom of God, and His righteousness; and all these things (natural necessities of life) shall be added unto you (Matt. 6:33). Christ calls us to a life of faith and dependence, because it is the life He Himself led.

When God says: Seek My face (II Chr. 7:14), He means for us daily to seek His will in His Word to know His true goals for us. As we read His Word, the Holy Spirit not only enlightens our understanding of His will, but He empowers us to live it. God has warned: He that turneth away his ear from hearing the Law, even his prayer shall be abomination (Prov. 28:9).

We need to consider and daily ask ourselves: "Will what I'm seeking in prayer bring honor to the Father or merely benefit me?"

Jesus said: If a man abide not in Me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned. If ye abide in Me, and My words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you (John 15:6-7).

Thought for Today:

As it is written, Behold, I lay in Sion a stumblingstone and rock of offence: and whosoever believeth on Him shall not be ashamed (Rom. 9:33).
Christ Portrayed:

By King Hezekiah who offered an intercessory prayer for every one That prepareth his heart to seek God (II Chr. 30:18-19). Jesus Christ our King, now seated at the right hand of God, intercedes in prayer for all who continue to seek Him (Rom. 8:34). Seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God (Col. 3:1).
Word Studies:

28:3 Hinnom (Gehenna — translated as "hell" in the New Testament); 28:10 keep under, make slaves; 28:15 shod them, gave them sandals; 28:25 several, single; 30:6 posts, runners, couriers; 30:22 comfortably, encouragingly; 30:23 took counsel, agreed.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Officials: Rep. Jeb Hensarling (TX) and Rep. Jerry Moran (KS) • Country: Indonesia (211.8 million) five large and 13,662 lesser islands in Southeast Asia • Major languages: Bahasa Indonesian (modified form of Malay) and English • Growing pressure from Muslim leaders to limit advances of Christianity by not renewing many of the missionaries' permits to stay in the country • 83% Muslim; 9% Protestant; 4% Catholic; 2% Hindu; 1% Buddhist; 1% Other • Prayer Suggestion: If we ask anything agreeing with His will, He both hears and answers (I John 5:14-15).
Optional Reading: I Corinthians 16

Memory Verse for the Week: John 15:12

[Judy Harder]

May 30, 2011     


Bible Pathways
     
Read II Chronicles 31 -- 33

Highlights:

Hezekiah seeks to destroy all idols. He inspires the people, renewing Burnt Offerings . . . and . . . the set feasts (II Chr. 31:3), as well as commanding them to tithe and support the priests so that the people might be encouraged in the Law of the Lord (31:4); firstfruits, tithes, and many biblical reforms. A powerful enemy rises up and threatens to destroy the nation of Israel. Notice which prophet Hezekiah joins forces with to pray for the Lord's protection (32:20-22).
Faith in the ever-present God inspires worship, and faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God (Rom. 10:17). This, in turn, will spontaneously prompt generous giving. Hezekiah appealed to the people to supply the financial needs of the priests and the Levites, that they might be encouraged in the Law of the Lord. . . . the children of Israel brought in abundance . . . and the tithe of all things. . . . The Lord hath blessed His people (II Chr. 31:4-5,10). When Jerusalem was cleansed of idolatry, the tithes poured in from all parts of the nation. The king was amazed at the overabundance when the people were in a right relationship with God. Giving to the Lord's wrok in the Lord's way will always insure the blessings of God. Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in Mine House, and prove Me now herewith, saith the Lord of Hosts, if I will not . . . pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it (Mal. 3:10).

Repentance and cleansing from sin are followed by a desire for fellowship with God. This inevitably results in various sacrifices since all offerings are directly related to the basic principle of love. It is not what belongs to you that God is looking for, but you — self first, then offerings. This is the Divine order. Not only did Ananias and Sapphira not give all they pretended to give, but they never gave themselves to the Lord. Give because you want to, not because you have to. Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give (II Cor. 9:7).

How does one get to the point where he wants to give? The Macedonians found the secret. They first gave their own selves to the Lord (8:5).

In your giving, recognize the fact that you are giving to the Lord. Sometimes we talk of giving to the church or to missions, but we are really giving to the Lord through those channels.

The churches of Macedonia. . . . praying us with much intreaty that we would receive the gift. . . . but first gave their own selves to the Lord. . . . see that ye abound in this grace also (II Cor. 8:1,4-5,7).

Thought for Today:

Love your enemies, do good to them which hate you, Bless them that curse you, and pray for them which despitefully use you (Luke 6:27-28).
Christ Revealed:

By Hezekiah's offering of the king's portion (share) of his substance for the Burnt Offerings (II Chr. 31:3). Burnt Offerings were wholly consumed, symbolic of total surrender, and offered as a sweet savour to the Lord (Lev. 8:28; Num. 15:3). God offered His King's portion in Christ Jesus who, in total surrender on the cross, was wholly consumed, even unto death. Christ . . . hath given Himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling savour (Eph. 5:2).
Word Studies:

31:10 store abundance; 31:14 oblations free will offerings; 31:16 courses assigned tasks; 31:18 set office appointed office; 31:19 every several city every city; 32:6 comfortably encouragingly; 32:8 rested themselves relied; 32:17 rail on belittle; denounce; 32:18 affright brighten; 33:11 fetters chains.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Official: Rep. Steve Israel (NY) • Country: Iran (66.2 million) in southwestern Asia • Major languages: Farsi and Turki • Hostile to all Christian activity • 87% Shi'a; 12% Sunni; .5% Baha'i; .4% Christian; .03% Jewish; .04% Parsi (Zoroastrian); .03% Other • Prayer Suggestion: Ask the Lord to give you mercy and compassion for others (Jude 1:21-22).
Optional Reading: II Corinthians 1

Memory Verse for the Week: John 15:12

[Judy Harder]

Bible Pathways
     
Read II Chronicles 34 -- 36

Highlights:

The Temple is repaired and what Treasure do they find (II Chr. 34:14-16)? Don't miss the promise of God to the king and the king's covenant with the Lord. Josiah's godliness is precious (35:24-25) but, after his death, the nation's sins result in their destruction. Decree of Cyrus to rebuild the Temple.
Josiah reigned on David's throne for thirty-one years. It was the last surge of political independence and religious revival before the disintegration of the southern kingdom.

Josiah's religious leadership ranked him with David, Jehoshaphat, and Hezekiah as an outstanding godly ruler, for he took a firm stand against idol worship and other evils that had permeated his kingdom (II Chr. 34:1-7). Moreover Josiah kept a passover unto the Lord in Jerusalem. . . . sanctify yourselves, and prepare your brethren, that they may do according to the Word of the Lord. . . . And there was no Passover like to that kept in Israel from the days of Samuel the prophet; neither did all the kings of Israel keep such a Passover as Josiah kept, and the priests, and the Levites, and all Judah and Israel that were present, and the inhabitants of Jerusalem (35:1,6,18). Josiah's love for God and his righteous example of spiritual leadership has been a blessing to many thousands of us since that time.

Josiah's leadership was abruptly ended when he attempted to stop Pharaoh Necho's plans to attack the Assyrians (35:20-24; II Kin. 23:28-30). From the time of Manasseh, the Kingdom of Judah had been under the control of Assyria. Josiah may have felt obligated to withstand the invasion of Pharaoh Necho. It appears that Josiah did not believe that Necho had received a message from the One True God since Necho was a worshiper of many false gods.

If our God had wanted to stop Josiah, He would have spoken to him, not to an idol worshiper. There is a time to die (Eccl. 3:2). Josiah was a godly man, and it is a fact that all things work together for good to them that love God (Rom. 8:28). Furthermore, there was no reason to believe that God was displeased with Josiah. Compare his life with that of Solomon and others. Josiah died a young man, as did Stephen and Jesus. The thirty-nine-year-old king was fatally wounded at Megiddo. He fulfilled the will of God, who spared him from the tragedies that were soon to come upon Jerusalem and the Temple, and God welcomed him home. There are few people about whom the Bible says: He did that which was right in the sight of the Lord, and walked in the ways of David his father, and declined neither to the right hand, nor to the left (II Chr. 34:2).

Thought for Today:

Holding forth the Word of Life; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither laboured in vain (Phil. 2:16).
Christ Revealed:

Through the messengers of God who were rejected by His people (II Chr. 36:15-16; compare Is. 53:3; Mark 9:12). Jesus came unto His own (his own people), and His own received Him not (John 1:11; also Matt. 21:42; Mark 8:31; 12:10; Luke 9:22; 17:25; 20:17).
Word Studies:

35:13 sod, boiled; 36:3 put him down, deposed him; condemned, taxed; demanded tribute; 36:10 brother, uncle; 36:15 rising up betimes, early every morning.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Dr. John A. Hash • Staff: Rick Hash • Government Official: Rep. Larry Bucshon (IN), and Del. Madeleine Bordallo (Guam) • Country: Iraq (22 million) in southern Asia • Major languages: Arabic and Kurdish • Fierce harassment of non-Muslims • 96% Muslim; 3% Christian • Prayer Suggestion: Pray in such a manner that others would be encouraged to praise and glorify God also (Jude 1:24-25).
Optional Reading: II Corinthians 2

Memory Verse for the Week: John 15:12

[Judy Harder]

June 01, 2011     

Read Ezra 1 -- 2

Highlights:

God stirred the hearts of: (1) King Cyrus to send the Israelites to rebuild the Temple and return its vessels that had been confiscated by Nebuchadnezzar (Ezra 1:1-3,7-11); (2) the priests, Levites, tribal leaders, and others to willingly return to Jerusalem (1:5); (3) the ones left to help pay the expenses (1:6).
The Word of the Lord in Ezra 1:1 referred to prophecy given about 150 years earlier in Jeremiah 29:10: Thus saith the Lord, That after seventy years be accomplished at Babylon I will visit you, and perform My good Word toward you, in causing you to return to this place.

Israel's Northern Kingdom had been taken captive by the Assyrians, who were defeated by the Babylonians. Judah, the Southern Kingdom, was exiled by the Babylonians, who were later conquered by the Medes and Persians. As the Book opens (Ezra 1:1-6), Cyrus, king of Persia, made an amazing proclamation throughout his kingdom: The Lord God of heaven hath given me all the kingdoms of the earth; and He hath charged me to build Him an House at Jerusalem, which is in Judah (1:2), thereby permitting the Jews to return to Jerusalem . . . (to) build the House of the Lord God of Israel (1:3) as had first been foretold by Isaiah some two hundred years earlier, even to the naming of Cyrus as the conqueror (Is. 44:23-28; 45:1).

Ezra recorded that the first expedition was led by Zerubbabel, who was appointed governor by King Cyrus to rebuild the Temple and the Altar of the God of Israel (Ezra 5:14; Hag. 1:1,14; 2:2,21).

After arriving in Jerusalem with Zerubbabel, the returned exiles first built the Altar and observed the Feast (Festival) of Tabernacles (Booths) which commemorated the 2,000,000 Israelites' 40 years of trusting the Lord for daily food in the desert (Ezra 3:4).

No one except God could possibly accurately predict or foresee the events even of the next hour. There is only one explanation for the hundreds of prophecies in the Scriptures which have been fulfilled in every detail, hundreds of years after they were foretold. These prophecies have demonstrated that holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost (Spirit) (II Pet. 1:21). Only God could have foretold the seventy years' captivity of Judah (Jer. 25:1-12) to be followed by its restoration (29:10; Is. 44:28). This One True God who controlled every world empire to fulfill this prophecy assures us that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to His purpose (Rom. 8:28); and that no good thing will He withhold from them that walk uprightly (Ps. 84:11).

Thought for Today:

Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which to day is, and to morrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith (Matt. 6:30)?
Christ Portrayed:

By Sheshbazzar, another name for Zerubbabel, the prince (governor) of Judah (Ezra 1:. Christ is both the Prince of Peace (Is. 9:6) and the Lion of the tribe of Juda (Judah) (Rev. 5:5).
Word Studies:

1:1 perfect blameless; 1:6 strengthened their hands have them assistance; 2:43 Nethinims temple servants; 2:63 Tirshatha governor.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for our Military worldwide • International Broadcasts in honor of Rev. Ed & Betty Britton • Staff: Dr. John A. Hash • Government Officials: Rep. Tim Bishop (NY) and Rep. Gregg Harper (MS) • Country: Ireland (3.7 million) off the coast of western Europe • Major languages: English and Irish (Gaelic) • Religious freedom • 92% Catholic; 3.7% Anglican; 1% Other Protestant; .2% Muslim; .1% Jewish; 2% Other; 1% None • Prayer Suggestion: Keep the Word of God and pray to Him who has given you an open door into His presence (Rev. 3:.
Optional Reading: II Corinthians 3

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: John 15:12

[Judy Harder]

 
Read Ezra 3 -- 5

Highlights:

The work began! Check their priorities — the Altar was rebuilt and then burnt offerings were offered (Ezra 3:2-3). The foundation was finished (3:10-13), and enemies slandered and complained to Darius the king (5:.
When Zerubbabel and the returning Jews left the pleasures and prosperity of Persia, they faced the hardships of a long, treacherous journey in order to rebuild a destroyed Jerusalem. They could have assumed that the first thing to do was build their own homes. But instead, they set aside personal necessities until they had builded the Altar of the God of Israel, to offer burnt offerings thereon (Ezra 3:2). And all the people shouted with a great shout, when they praised the Lord, because the foundation of the House of the Lord was laid. But many of the priests . . . who were ancient men, that had seen the first House . . . wept with a loud voice (3:11-12). Undoubtedly they realized that their sin had caused the destruction of the first House. The burnt offerings were more than mere religious rituals, because these Jews had forsaken everything in Persia in order to restore fellowship with their God in Jerusalem and worship Him.

When our heart's desire is to be obedient to God and His Word, the Holy Spirit will witness within us the need to abandon our dependence on self and material things and rely instead on our Savior and Lord. Sacrificial giving, devoted work, and faithful attendance in a local church are outward manifestations of restored fellowship with God.

Deciding to serve the Lord and do His work does not guarantee a life of ease and freedom from problems. To the contrary! Once Satan sees that we have set our hearts on pleasing the Lord, he will use everything and everyone in his power to keep us from the task we have set out to accomplish. His purpose is to divert our attention from reliance on the Word of God and prayer. So let us purpose in our hearts to finish the work the Lord has called us to do. No one else can do it for us since each Christian is individually responsible to God for accomplishing what He has ordained for us to do (Eph. 2:10).

Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed. (For after all these thing do the Gentiles (unbelievers) seek:) for your Heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. But seek . . . first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you (Matt. 6:31-33).

Thought for Today:

Each Christian is individually responsible for accomplishing what God has for him to do.
Christ Revealed:

Through the great (huge) stones used in building the Temple of God (Ezra 5:. Jesus Christ is the Stone which the builders refused (rejected), and He has become the Head Stone of the Corner (Cornerstone) of our faith (Ps. 118:22; Matt. 21:42).
Word Studies:

3:3 his bases its original foundation; 3:8 set forward oversee; 3:11 by course by the assigned divisions of priests; 4:4 weakened the hands of discouraged and frightened; 5:10 certify inform.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Staff: Chris Robison • Government Official: Rep. Michael Rogers (MI) • Country: Israel (6.1 million) in the Middle East • Major languages: Hebrew and Arabic • Witnessing to Jews about Christ the Messiah is actively discouraged • 80.2% Jewish (mostly secular); 14.6% Muslim (largely Sunni); 2.1% Christian; 1.6% Druze; 1.5% Other • Prayer Suggestion: Praise the Lord for His redeeming love (Rev. 5:9).
Optional Reading: II Corinthians 4

Memory Verse for the Week: John 15:12

[Judy Harder]

June 03, 2011     

Read Ezra 6 -- 7
Highlights:

The flesh, the devil, and the world hindered the rebuilding of the Temple, but God overruled (Ezra 6:1-15). Joyously, the Passover was celebrated (6:22)! Then came Ezra, a scribe and priest (7:6). Ezra was well-favored. Learn why (7:10).
The rebuilding of the Temple had been left unfinished for many years, but once the Word and authority of God were recognized, they began to build the House of God . . . and with them were the prophets of God helping them (Ezra 5:2). What caused this revival? Their circumstances had not changed, and they faced the same intense opposition and determination by the enemy to cause the work to cease. But this time, they were strengthened by the power of the Word of God, and the enemy could not cause them to cease (comp. 4:4-5,23 and 5:3-5).

The elders . . . builded, and they prospered (overcame the opposition of the enemy) through the prophesying of Haggai the prophet and Zechariah . . . And they builded, and finished it (the Temple), according to the Commandment of the God of Israel (6:14).

The work of God can be sustained and strengthened only through obedience to His Word — the foundation of our Christian lives — the one power that Satan cannot overcome.

Ezra had prepared his heart to seek the Law of the Lord, and to do it, and to teach in Israel statutes and judgments (7:10). He made a thorough investigation in the right place — the Holy Scriptures. Ezra decided to not only read the Law of the Lord, but also to do it. This divine order still rests upon the people of God today — not only to read but to accept and obey the Truth. Then, if any man will do His (the Lord's) will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God (John 7:17).

Gospel Truth becomes our strength only as we receive it into our hearts by faith and give practical expression to it. To illustrate, if we have an untimely death in our family, do we blame God or do we believe His Word that states: All things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to His purpose (Rom. 8:28)? Whoso looketh into the perfect Law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed (James 1:25).

Due to neglect and consequent disobedience of the Word of God, many Christians make little or no spiritual progress. Desire the sincere milk of the Word (the plain and simple truth of the Bible), that ye may grow thereby (I Pet. 2:2).

Thought for Today:

Obedience is charateristic of faith.
Christ Revealed:

Through the Feast of Unleavened (yeast-free) Bread (Ezra 6:22). Jesus is the Bread of Life (John 6:35), and He was without sin (Heb. 4:15). Leaven is symbolic of sin.
Word Studies:

6:1 house of the rolls building where records were kept on scrolls; 6:4 king's house royal treasury; 6:15 Adar compares with February and March; 7:21 the river euphrates.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Staff: Dan Murton • Government Officials: Rep. Roscoe Bartlett (MD) • Country: Italy (58 million) in southern Europe • Major languages: Italian and German • Religious freedom • 81% Roman Catholic; .4% Protestant; .1% Eastern Orthodox • Prayer Suggestion: Lift up your prayers to the Lord as incense before God (Rev. 8:3-4).
Optional Reading: II Corinthians 5

Memory Verse for the Week: John 15:12