Bible Pathways

[Judy Harder]

Read Romans 14 – 16

Highlights:

Dangers of criticism; don't condemn others (Rom. chap. 14). Live in harmony, giving praise and glory to the Lord (15:1-6). Paul's ambition should also be part of ours (15:20-21). Christians in one area took up a collection for believers in need (15:26-28).
The Christian who has received Christ as Lord of his life will not be content with living merely to satisfy self. To live for the glory of God and the salvation of others should become much more important to him than his own interests and pleasure.

None of us liveth to himself, and no man dieth to himself. For whether we live, we live unto the Lord; and whether we die, we die unto the Lord: whether we live therefore, or die, we are the Lord's. For to this end Christ both died, and rose, and revived, that He might be Lord both of the dead and living (Rom. 14:7-9). Since we are the Lord's, it needs to be repeated often that none of us is to live only for himself, for we were created in Christ Jesus unto good works (Eph. 2:10).

Even Christ, in whom dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead (Col. 2:9), pleased not Himself (Rom. 15:3). For the sake of others He came into the world; for others He lived; for others He prayed; for others He wept; for others He died; for others He arose from the dead; for others He intercedes at the right hand of the Father; and for others He will come again! How diametrically opposed this is to the self-centered philosophy of the world!

Some of us who are stronger will have much to answer for — such as the heartbreak or dismay in a weaker one when a word of kindness from us would have been so helpful. Do not pass anyone by; Christ never did. Let us not therefore judge one another any more: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumblingblock or an occasion to fall in his brother's way (14:13).

Choosing to forego what pleases ourselves frees us to bear the infirmities of a weaker brother and thus help him gain victory in his spiritual life and win the crown of life (James 1:12). If we listen to the Holy Spirit and make that choice, we can thank God through all eternity.

Now the God of patience and consolation grant you to be likeminded one toward another according to Christ Jesus: That ye may with one mind and one mouth glorify God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Wherefore receive ye one another, as Christ also received us to the glory of God (Rom. 15:5-7).

Thought for Today:

Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted (Gal. 6:1).
Cross References:

For Rom. 14:11: See Is. 45:23. Rom. 15:3: See Ps. 69:9. Rom. 15:9: See Ps. 18:49. Rom. 15:10: See Deut. 32:43. Rom. 15:11: See Ps. 117:1. Rom. 15:12: See Is. 11:1,10. Rom. 15:21: See Is. 52:15.
Word Studies:

14:1 not to doubtful disputations, not for passing judgment on his questionable opinions; 16:2 succourer, helper, defender.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in honor of Bonnie Wilhite • Government Officials: Sen. Mary Landrieu (LA), Rep. Bobby Rush (IL), and Sen. Chuck Schumer (NY) • Country: Germany (82 million) in north-central Europe • Major language: German • Religious freedom • 33.8% Evangelical (Lutheran); 33.6% Catholic; 3.4% Muslim; 1% Orthodox; 1% Other Christian; .2% Other; 27% None • Prayer Suggestion: Pray and rejoice in the Lord for all His spiritual blessings (Is. 61:10).
Memory Verse for the Week: Romans 6:14

[Judy Harder]

Read I Corinthians 1 – 4

Highlights:

Called by God to be His (I Cor. 1:2). Stay focused on His mission (1:10-31). The "weakest" point and most "foolish" plan of God is far more powerful and wiser than men (1:23-25).This is "too" good to overlook (2:9)! God has revealed His wisdom to His people (2:10-14). Learn this Truth (3:6-7). Responsibilities of leadership (4:1-4,15-16, 20-21).
Paul had met apparent defeat at Athens where he delivered his great sermon on Mars' Hill (Acts 17). There is no record of his establishing a church there or of his returning on any later occasion.

Next, he confronted the philosophic Greeks of Corinth. How would the Corinthians respond if he were to preach the resurrection of a man who had been hanged on a Roman cross as the Savior of the world? Suppose these men, too, would refuse to listen to such foolishness of preaching (I Cor. 1:21).

He presented the message of his Redeemer, unmixed, uncorrupted. To do otherwise — to wreathe the cross with flowers of thought and rhetoric till man could find no cross, no sacrifice, no blood — would be unfaithful to his Savior.

To the church that he later established in Corinth, Paul wrote: Unto the church of God which is at Corinth, to them that are sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be saints, with all that in every place call upon the Name of Jesus Christ. . . . in every thing ye are enriched . . . in all knowledge . . . waiting for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ . . . that ye may be blameless in the day of our Lord Jesus Christ (1:2,5,7-8).

There are two types of men — "natural" and "spiritual." Corresponding to these are two ways of gaining knowledge — one by persuasive "wisdom" of men and the other by demonstration of the power of the Holy Spirit. Likewise, there are in close parallel two ways of preaching the Gospel — in word only or in the Word with power. When the message is received in the power of the Word of God, it brings about a change so radical as to be called a new creation (II Cor. 5:17). But the same message may be preached without power and multitudes will have a name only and yet remain dead in trespasses and sins (Eph. 2:1).

Unto the angel of the church in Sardis write; These things saith He that hath the seven Spirits of God, and the seven stars; I know thy works, that thou hast a name that thou livest, and art dead. Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain, that are ready to die. . . . hold fast, and repent (Rev. 3:1-3).

Thought for Today:

For I am not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek (Rom. 1:16).
Cross References:

For I Cor. 1:19: See Is. 29:14. I Cor. 1:31: See Jer. 9:24. I Cor. 2:16: See Is. 40:13. I Cor. 3:19: See Job 5:13. I Cor. 3:20: See Ps. 94:11.
Word Studies:

1:21 the foolishness of preaching, foolishness to unbelievers; 2:6 perfect, spiritually mature; 3:1 carnal, worldly; 4:5 counsels, motives; 4:11 naked, poorly clothed; buffeted, treated with disrespect; 4:16 followers, imitators; 4:18 puffed up, arrogant, proud.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in honor of Mr. and Mrs. Melvin Morris' 60th Wedding Anniversary • Staff: Jennifer Cunningham • Country: Ghana (19 million) in western Africa • Major languages: English and African languages • The government permits freedom to churches and missionaries that do not get involved in politics • 31% belief in spirits and witches; 22% Protestant; 17% Muslim; 11% Roman Catholic • Prayer Suggestion: Pray persistently (Is. 62:6).
Memory Verse for the Week: Romans 6:14

 


Read I Corinthians 5 – 9

Highlights:

Refrain from spiritual pride and open sin (I Cor. chap. 5 — 6). Power in the blood (5:7)! Marriage "101" according to the Lord (chap. 7). Our behavior weakens or strengthens others (8:8-13). Do not deprive the Lord's anointed ones of their reasonable support (9:9-14). Strive to go the distance for the Lord (9:24).
Throughout the Book of I Corinthians, the Spirit of God urges believers to go beyond being just ordinary Christians. He speaks of refraining from acceptable physical satisfactions for a time, that ye may give yourselves to fasting and prayer (I Cor. 7:5).

Prayer is one way of bringing about the highest purposes of God — of giving ourselves more fully to Him as the Christians in Jerusalem did. After Peter and John were threatened, the Christians lifted up their voice to God with one accord. . . . that with all boldness they may speak Thy (His) Word (Acts 4:24-29).

Throughout the Bible — from Moses in the Old Testament to the Apostles and others in the New Testament — men and women who were greatly used by God were people who prayed. Often they would unite with others in prayer and be enabled to accomplish the purposes of God. Our Lord taught us the power of united prayer when He said: If two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of My Father which is in heaven (Matt. 18:19).

In addition to united prayer, each of us individually must spend time in prayer every day if we are to become the person God wants us to be.

Some Christians desire to attain greater spiritual victories and power in prayer but are not willing to deny self and dedicate themselves to prayer — especially if the need is for others. But those who have received great answers to prayer have experienced times when their hearts were deeply burdened for someone, they faced some intense trial, or they were so desirous of having a closer walk with the Lord that food and other physical enjoyments lost their appeal. During those times, they experienced great victory through prayer and fasting.

In Jesus' Sermon on the Mount, He said that when thou fastest . . . thy Father . . . shall reward thee openly (6:17-18). Prayer and fasting will bring results that are not attainable any other way (Matt. 17:21; Mark 9:29).

If we come to the Lord in prayer, then have we confidence toward God. And whatsoever we ask, we receive of Him, because we keep His Commandments, and do those things that are pleasing in His sight (I John 3:21-22).

Thought for Today:

Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him (I John 2:15).
Cross References:

For I Cor. 6:16: See Gen. 2:24. I Cor. 9:9: See Deut. 25:4.
Word Studies:

5:11 a railer, one who is verbally abusive, a reviler; 6:9 effeminate, male homosexual who takes the feminine role; abusers of themselves with mankind, sodomites; 7:1 not to touch a woman, not to marry; 7:5 Defraud ye not one the other, Do not deprive each other of marital rights; 7:12 let him not put her away, let him not leave her or divorce her; 7:32 without carefulness, free from anxieties.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Staff: Micheal Moore • Government Official: Gov. John Lynch (NH) • 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: Remember that God hears and answers our prayers (Is. 65:24).
Memory Verse for the Week: Romans 6:14

 

[Judy Harder]

Read I Corinthians 10 – 13

Highlights:

The Bible assures us of temptations. Call on God; He will provide a way to remain faithful (I Cor. 10:13). All we do should glorify God (10:31-33). The Body of Christ working together wins (chap. 12)! Love described and explained (chap. 13).
We need to consider our daily lives, dear Christians. Are they full of careless expression? Do sharp words escape our lips as we confront others? Think of how many people we have contact with each day. Is there an outflow of Christ's loving-kindness toward them — even those who are rude? Let no man seek his own (advantage), but every man another's wealth (best interest) (I Cor. 10:24). Sharing the love of God with others is the most natural thing in the world to do when one's life is filled to overflowing with Christ and His love. Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God (10:31).

God is able, in His mighty power, to impart His love and His Spirit into the heart of His child — to open a fountain of love so that in all one's day-to-day activities it shall be His love, His life, flowing outward unceasingly. Do you not feel that in your own home, in your own circle of friends, and in your church, loving-kindness is the one thing above all else that will help heal any bitterness, strife, or divisions?

Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity (love), I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal. And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity (love), I am nothing. And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity (love), it profiteth me nothing (13:1-3). Charity (Love) suffereth long (is patient), and is kind (gracious) . . . envieth not (is not jealous) . . . vaunteth not itself (is not boastful), is not puffed up (conceited), Doth not behave itself unseemly (is not rude), seeketh not her own (is not selfish), is not easily provoked (to take offense), thinketh no evil; Rejoiceth not in iniquity (is not happy over someone's exposed sin), but rejoiceth in the Truth (delights to see the Word of God magnified) (13:4-6).

Let us, then, ask God for grace to express His love more than we have ever done before and live to please Him. God is love (I John 4:. It does not say, "God has love," but God is love. And the love that we need is the indwelling God Himself flowing through us and blessing everyone we meet throughout the day. He that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him (I John 4:16).

Thought for Today:

Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again (Luke 6:38).
Cross References:

For I Cor. 10:7: See Ex. 32:6. I Cor. 10:26: See Ps. 24:1.
Word Studies:

10:24 another's wealth, the well-being of others; 10:25 shambles, meat market; 11:11 man without the woman, man is not independent of woman; woman is essential to man; 11:13 comely, proper; 12:2 dumb, mute, without a voice; 12:11 severally, individually; 12:24 tempered, united, assembled, combined; 12:25 schism, division; 13:1 charity, love; 13:12 now we see through a glass, darkly, all we are capable of knowing now is partial and incomplete.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Officials: Gov. Jack Markell (DE) and Rep. Shelley Moore Capito (WV) • Country: Greenland (60,000) northeast of Canada • Major languages: Eskimo dialects and Danish • Religious freedom • 98% Protestant; .1% Roman Catholic • Prayer Suggestion: Humble yourself and reverence the Word of God; He will look upon you with affection (Is. 66:2).
Memory Verse for the Week: Romans 6:14

[Judy Harder]

Read I Corinthians 14 – 16

Highlights:

Spiritual gifts (I Cor. 14:22-40). (1) Jesus resurrected (15:1-12); (2) First of many raised to life again (15:20); (3) Our resurrected bodies (15:35-49); (4) Total victory (15:54-58). Offerings for others on every Lord's Day (16:1-3).
The grace of God can protect a Joseph from Potiphar's wife in Egypt and can keep an Elijah in a kingdom where Jezebel was queen, but even the most godly Christians need to be on their guard against the worldly deceptions of the devil. Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour (I Pet. 5:.

To the Christian who, of necessity, must spend much of his time with the people of the world, the following text comes as a warning against conforming to their standards. Be not deceived: evil communications (friends, companions) corrupt good manners. Awake to righteousness, and sin not; for some have not the knowledge of God: I speak this to your shame (I Cor. 15:33-34). Influences of worldly associations and the temptations that follow can gradually weaken a believer to accept the standards of the world around him. That is why God has said: Have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them (Eph. 5:11). Failing to turn from ungodly influences exposes one's unwillingness to take the Lord and His Word seriously.

Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, 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 2:15-17).

The pronouncements of the Scriptures on the Christian's proper relationship to the world are very clear. Many Christians today are so entangled with the world that millions never realize how radically they have missed the New Testament pattern of godly living. Compromise is rampant, but Scripture leaves no room for doubt or compromise.

But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord (I Cor. 15:57-58). PTL!

Thought for Today:

Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me His prisoner: but be thou partaker of the afflictions of the Gospel according to the power of God (II Tim. 1:.
Cross References:

For I Cor. 14:21: See Is. 28:11-12. I Cor. 15:3-4: See Hos. 6:2. I Cor. 15:25: See Ps. 110:1. I Cor. 15:27: See Ps. 8:6. I Cor. 15:32: See Is. 22:13. I Cor. 15:45: See Gen. 2:7. I Cor. 15:54: See Is. 25:8. I Cor. 15:55: See Hos. 13:14.
Word Studies:

14:10 signification, meaning; 14:11 barbarian, foreigner; 14:20 in malice be ye children, in doing evil, be as harmless as a baby; 14:27 by course, in turn; 15:9 meet, worthy, fit; 15:20 slept, have died; 15:33 evil communications corrupt good manners, evil companions or associations ruin or defile good character; 15:40 celestial, heavenly; terrestrial, earthly; 16:2 gatherings, collections; 16:13 stand fast in the faith, remain true to the Lord; quit you, act, be courageous; 16:15 addicted, devoted; 16:22 Anathema, Accursed; Maranatha, Our Lord is coming!
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Officials: Rep. Paul Gosar (AK) and Rep. John Runyan (NJ) • Country: Grenada (97,000) southernmost of the Windward Islands • Major language: English • Religious freedom • 61% Roman Catholic; 31% Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: Seek God in prayer with your whole heart and He will hear you (Jer. 29:12-13).
Memory Verse for the Week: Romans 6:15
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[Judy Harder]

Read II Corinthians 1 – 4

Highlights:

The Lord expects us to do for others what He has done for us (II Cor. 1:3-7). Holy Spirit seals us (1:21-22). The letter (of the Law) killeth, but the Spirit giveth life (3:6). Ministry is tough; Paul says: "Don't give up" (4:1). Present troubles are short-lived, but glory with the Savior is forever (4:16-18).
Not everyone is called to be an evangelist or pastor, or to speak before a crowd. There are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit (I Cor. 12:4). But every Christian, as part of the Body of Christ, can be used in a ministry of love and comfort as a servant of our Lord. This simply means that God uses believers to express His loving-kindness and to communicate the indwelling life of Christ to others. By telling us the greatest of these is charity (love) (13:13), God made us caregivers — a most important and exceedingly precious ministry.

Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God. For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation (encouragement) also aboundeth by Christ (II Cor. 1:3-5). Those who are willing to identify with Christ experience His suffering and can, in turn, express the comfort of the Holy Spirit to others who are suffering or are experiencing trials.

Nothing in physical pain in itself produces the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God. But suffering with Christ will bring with it the comfort of the Lord. We can then, in the strength of the Spirit, share His love with others. We which live are alway delivered unto death (to self-interest when we have an opportunity to help someone in need) . . . that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our mortal flesh. So then death worketh in us, but life in you (blesses others) (4:11-12).

No matter how much you may have physically entered into another's sufferings, or how much you share of your own experience of that which another person is suffering, if you are ministering with confidence in the flesh and for the purpose of receiving recognition, then your ministry will be less fruitful. The ministry of comfort is a ministry of the Holy Spirit. We cannot expect Him to bless where there is self-confidence rather than reliance on Him. My friend, trust Him to use you as His voice and His hands. There is a great need for a ministry of comfort. You do not have to look far to find broken hearts, lives, and homes.

Comfort ye, comfort ye My people, saith your God (Is. 40:1).

Thought for Today:

Notwithstanding ye have well done, that ye did communicate with my affliction (Phil. 4:14).
Cross References:

For II Cor. 3:13: See Ex. 34:33-35. II Cor. 4:13: See Ps. 116:10.
Word Studies:

2:5 not overcharge, not overstate the case or be too severe; 2:9 know the proof of you, test your loyalty; 2:14 savour, satisfaction, sweetness, like a lovely fragrance; 3:10 even that which was made glorious had no glory in this respect, by reason of the glory that excelleth, what was glorious (Law given to Moses) has no glory in comparison to the surpassing glory of Jesus Christ; 4:15 redound, abound, overflow, result in abundance.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Lt. Col. & Mrs. Walter Swanson • Staff: Barbara Jean Loyd • Government Official: Sec'y. Eric Shinseki (Dept. of Veterans Affairs) and Sen. Michael Bennet (CO) • Country: Guatemala (12.3 million) in Central America • Major languages: Spanish and Indian languages • Religious freedom • 60% Catholic; 35% Protestant; 2% Animist; 1.5% Other; 1.5% None • Prayer Suggestion: Know that the Lord is loving and merciful to His children (Jer. 31:9).
Memory Verse for the Week: Romans 6:15

 

[Judy Harder]

Read II Corinthians 5 – 8

Highlights:

Absent from the body . . . present with the Lord (II Cor. 5:. Our life is to represent Christ, and our privilege is to bring others to Him (5:18-21). We, the Temple of the Living God, are to be cleansed and separated from sin (chap. 6). Worship, dedication, humility (8:5). A call to generous giving (8:1-15).
Among the Corinthians there were abundant gifts of the Holy Spirit. But, there was also much lacking. For Paul had to say: We must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad. Knowing therefore the terror of the Lord, we persuade men; but we are made manifest (exposed) unto God; and I trust also are made manifest in your consciences (II Cor. 5:10-11). He (God) hath made Him (Christ Jesus) to be sin for us, who (Christ) knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in Him (5:21). We all need that same desire to reflect the likeness of Christ.

The true source of defilement of the flesh is self-gratification, which includes the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life (I John 2:16). In relation to God, it manifests itself in choosing our will rather than His. In relation to our fellowmen, it shows itself in envy, hatred, strife, backbitings, and cold, harsh judgment of others. Pity the poor saint who is intent on displaying "his" gift or talent, satisfied with what he "does" and yet unconcerned with what is the greatest gift: The greatest of these is charity (love) (I Cor. 13:13). In relation to ourselves, self-gratification is seen as pride and the ambition to make self the center around which everything else revolves. A Christian should separate himself from actions, influences, or people that will contaminate him spiritually. Victory is available through our Lord Jesus Christ (15:57). Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God (II Cor. 7:1).

For the discovery of such defilement of spirit, the believer needs to truly desire to know the Word of God. As we read the Scriptures, the Holy Spirit does His work by exposing our sin and enabling us in His strength to cast out whatever is hindering us from having a pure heart. Every man that hath this hope in Him purifieth himself, even as He is pure (I John 3:3). If our heart condemn us, God is greater than our heart, and knoweth all things (3:20). For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death (II Cor. 7:10).

Thought for Today:

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law (Gal. 5:22-23).
Cross References:

For II Cor. 6:2: See Is. 49:8. II Cor. 6:16: See Lev. 26:11-12; Ezek. 37:27. II Cor. 6:17: See Is. 52:11. II Cor. 8:15: See Ex. 16:18.
Word Studies:

5:5 wrought, prepared; 5:13 beside ourselves, insane; sober, of sound mind; 6:5 In stripes, Having been beaten; tumults, riots; 6:6 unfeigned, genuine; 6:12 Ye are not straitened in us our love toward you is not restrained; bowels, emotions; 6:13 for a recompence in the same,  in return for our love; be ye also enlarged, open your hearts to us; 7:9 that ye might receive damage by us in nothing, that you not be offended in what we did or did not say; 7:10 not to be repented of, without regret; 7:11 carefulness, diligence, seriousness; 8:1 we do you to wit of the grace of God bestowed on, we want you to know what the grace of God has accomplished in; 8:4 Praying us with much intreaty that we would receive the gift, urging us insistently to allow them the privilege of meeting our needs; 8:7 abound, excel; 8:8 forwardness, earnestness.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Joe & Betty Crawford; and in memory of Letha Hash • Government Officials: Sec'y. Janet Napolitano (Dept. of Homeland Security) and Rep. Jean Schmidt (OH) • Country: Guinea (8 million) on the Atlantic coast of western Africa • Major languages: French and tribal languages • Freedom for nationals, but strict limitations on missionaries • 83% Muslim; 12% tribal religions; 4% Roman Catholic; .6% Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: Express your gratitude for the loving-kindness of God (Jer. 32:17-18).
Memory Verse for the Week: Romans 6:15

 

[Judy Harder]

Read II Corinthians 9 – 13

Highlights:

A harvest of generosity (II Cor. chap. 9). Use the weapons of God against the devil (10:4-6); without Jesus, we can do nothing (see John 15:5; Col. 1:17). Guard against: false teachers (11:1-15); pride (12:7). We are weak, but God is strong (12:9). Check yourselves out regularly to be sure you're focused on Jesus (13:5).
We are inclined to think that no one could feel the intensity of suffering that we are facing and our first response may be: "Why me, Lord?" We may be suffering from the shock of being diagnosed with terminal cancer, divorce, loss of a job, or foreclosure on our home. Perhaps we are facing the death of a child, mother, father, or wife. There is a sense of intense loneliness that permeates our thoughts when tragedy occurs. For some, it means the loss of one with whom they shared life's joys and the discoveries they made as they read the Bible together.

The Apostle Paul lists a few of the many experiences of suffering he had endured. He records: Five times received I forty stripes save one (II Cor. 11:24). This was because he had preached the Gospel that Jesus Christ is the Messiah. Then: Thrice was I beaten with rods, once was I stoned, thrice I suffered shipwreck, a night and a day I have been in the deep . . . in perils (dangers) of robbers, in perils by mine own countrymen . . . (and still worse) among false brethren (11:25-26.) Yes, Paul had feelings just like all of us. He continues: In weariness and painfulness, in watchings often, in hunger and thirst, in fastings (11:27). Added to that, was the care of all the churches (11:28). That's where his heart really was, in spite of all his struggles.

He prayed three times that his thorn in the flesh might be removed (12:7-8). God didn't answer Paul's prayer as he expected. Instead, He said: My grace is sufficient for thee (12:9).

Yes, we do love the Lord and know His Word that reminds us that all things work together for good (Rom. 8:28). So, when God removes our most precious loved one — perhaps a child or even a grandchild or godly wife or husband — we need to remember the Apostle Paul, who never once said: "Woe is me! Why, Lord, did this happen to me?" It is not recorded in Scripture that Paul had any thought that would suggest a lack of faith in the wisdom of God.

And the thrill of it all is that, as a child of God, we know what the future holds — that death doesn't end all. It just begins a life of eternity with our wonderful Heavenly Father and our precious Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ. Jesus said: Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in Me. . . . (For) I go to prepare a place for you (John 14:1-2).

Thought for Today:

That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ (I Pet. 1:7).
Cross References:

For II Cor. 9:9: See Ps. 112:9. II Cor. 10:17: See Jer. 9:24. II Cor. 13:1: See Deut. 19:15.
Word Studies:

9:2 forwardness, readiness; 9:5 bounty, gift; 9:7 of necessity, under compulsion; 9:13 experiment, experience, proof, evidence; 10:13 without, beyond; 11:2 espoused, betrothed, engaged; 11:3 beguiled, deceived, seduced; simplicity, sincere faithfulness; 11:5 a whit behind, at all inferior to; 11:6 rude in speech, unskilled as an orator; 12:7 buffet, discipline; 12:17 make a gain of you, take advantage of or exploit you; 12:20 swellings, pride; self-assertion; 12:21 lasciviousness, lustfulness; 13:6 reprobates, rejected, not genuine Christians.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Gloria Schmidt; and by Dr. John A. Hash • Government Official: Sen. Richard Burr (NC), Rep. Jim McGovern (MA), and Rep.-at-Large Kristi Noem (SD) • Country: Guinea-Bissau (1 million) on the western coast of Africa • Major languages: Portuguese and Criolo • Religious freedom • 51% animist; 42% Muslim; 6% Roman Catholic; .7% Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: Call unto the Lord and He will give you strength to overcome (Jer. 33:3).
Memory Verse for the Week: Romans 6:15

 

[Judy Harder]

Read Galatians 1 – 3

Highlights:

The greatest news in history — there is only one Gospel that calls us into the grace of Christ (Gal. 1:6-9)! The Lord sent Peter to Jews, Paul to Gentiles (2:. We are not justified by the works of the Law. But did you know justification is by faith in Jesus Christ, that we might live unto God (2:16-21; Matt. 5:16; John 6:36)? Christ liveth in me (Gal. 2:19-20).
The Galatian letter forever settles the fact that there is only one way to avoid eternal hell and to be assured of eternal life with Christ in heaven. The Apostle Paul recorded: 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. 1:8-9). Our Lord Jesus Christ . . . gave Himself for our sins, that He might deliver us from this present evil world (1:3-4). We can only be justified (declared righteous in God's eyes) by the faith of (in) Christ, and not by the works of the Law (2:16).

Abraham is mentioned eight times in chapter three (vss 6-9,14,16,18,29) to remind us: Even as Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness. . . . therefore . . . they which are of faith, the same are the children of Abraham. . . . And if ye be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed (3:6-7,29). Abraham believed God meant that, without exception, Abraham was obedient to God. James explained true faith when he wrote: Was not Abraham our father justified by works, when he had offered Isaac his son upon the altar? Seest thou how faith wrought with his works, and by works was faith made perfect (James 2:21-22)?

Furthermore, the Law was given so that we would see what great sinners we really are and how impossible it would be for us to please God without a new nature (James 1:12-13; 3:3-7). Wherefore the Law was our Schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ (Gal. 3:24). A schoolmaster was a faithful servant who was entrusted with the care of a child until it reached maturity. The Law, like a faithful schoolmaster, reveals that we are sinners who need the forgiveness, mercy, and love of God. We must recognize our lost sinful nature, repent of our sins, and be born again through personal faith in Jesus Christ.

Jesus, the Son of God, said: I am The Way, The Truth, and The Life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by Me. . . . If ye love Me, keep My Commandments (John 14:6,15).

Thought for Today:

Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the Word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever (I Pet. 1:23).
Cross References:

For Gal. 3:6: See Gen. 15:6. Gal. 3:8: See Gen. 12: 3; 22:18. Gal. 3:10: See Deut. 27:26. Gal. 3:11: See Hab. 2:4. Gal. 3:12: See Lev. 18:5. Gal. 3:13: See Deut. 21:23.
Word Studies:

1:13 conversation, daily behavior, attitude of life; 2:13 dissimulation, insincerity, hypocrisy, and pretense.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for our Military Worldwide • International Broadcasts in honor of Jesus • Staff: Dr. John A. Hash • Government Officials: Gov. Richard Scott (FL) and Rep. Gary Peters (MI) • Country: Guyana (705,000) on the northeastern coast of South America • Major languages: English and Amerindian dialects • The government is becoming increasingly Marxist, radical, and atheistic • 36% Hindu; 28% Protestant; 10% Roman Catholic; 9% Muslim • Prayer Suggestion: Pour out your heart in prayer to the Lord for your children (Lam. 2:19).
NOTE: We list the President, Vice President, Supreme Court Justices, Cabinet Members, Senators, Representatives, and Governors on their birthdays. Because we publish in advance, our list may not reflect the results of the most recent elections.

Memory Verse for the Week: Romans 6:15

[Judy Harder]

Read Galatians 4 – 6

Highlights:

No more a servant, but a son . . . an heir . . . through Christ (Gal. 4:1-7). Live in freedom through Jesus (5:1, 5-6,13-14). The indwelling Spirit of God produces fruit (5:22-23).
The history of Hagar and Sarah represents two different Covenants — the Law and the Gospel of Grace. Hagar and Abraham, by human planning, gave birth to Ishmael — symbolic of the efforts of the Law to accomplish the will of God, while Sarah represents the grace of God in the miraculous birth of Isaac when both were too old to have children. But God miraculously imparted, by faith, the ability to give birth to Isaac (Gal. 4:26-28).

In today's Bible reading, the Apostle Paul warns of 17 specific sins: Now the works of the flesh are manifest (evident), which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness (sensuality), Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance (discord), emulations (jealousy), wrath, strife, seditions (dissensions), heresies, Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the Kingdom of God (5:19-21). Sexual immorality, which includes adultery and fornication, heads the list. These sins include sexual intercourse between any man and woman who are not married to each other, as well as all sexual perversions.

In contrast, we are to bring into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ (II Cor. 10:5) and to present your (our) bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your (our) reasonable service (Rom. 12:1).

The Law can direct worshipers to outwardly keep religious symbolism, rules, and regulations, and appear to be very devoted; but it can never produce an inner desire from the heart to keep the Commandments of God and express the fruit of the Spirit in love, joy, and peace. The legalistic Pharisees were products of Law in contrast to grace (Christ's indwelling life).

The Law with its outward obedience is in contrast to the born-again new life experiences, through which one has the desire to do the Commands of Christ because it's the nature of all who are born again. Our source of motivation is His indwelling Spirit that we received by faith (John 16:13; Rom. 8:8-13; Eph. 2:8-9).

There is much that we should do as we walk . . . after the Spirit (Rom. 8:1). As we abide in Him and follow His will as revealed in the New Testament and illustrated in the symbols of the Old Covenant (Old Testament), the righteousness of the Law . . . (can) be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit (Rom. 8:4).

Thought for Today:

If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit (Gal. 5:25).
Cross References:

For Gal. 4:27: See Is. 54:1. Gal. 4:30: See Gen. 21:10. Gal. 5:14: See Lev. 19:18.
Word Studies:

4:4 made under the Law, born of a woman as a subject to the Law; 4:6 Abba, Aramaic word for Father; 4:12 injured, wronged, taken advantage of; 4:24 gendereth to, leads to; 4:25 answereth, corresponds; 5:19 uncleanness, immoral conduct; lasciviousness, immodesty, vulgarity, unrestrained lust; 5:20 variance, contentious temper, strife; emulations, jealousy, rivalry; seditions, dissensions, divisions; 6:6 communicate unto, share in the financial needs of; 6:12 constrain, compel.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Mrs. Helen A. Porter • Bible Pathway Media Director: Rick Hash • Staff: Chris Robison • Government Official: Sen. Harry Reid (NV) • Country: Haiti (7 million) in the West Indies • Major languages: French and Creole • Religious freedom • 75% Roman Catholic; 17% Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: Praise the Lord for His faithfulness and mercy (Lam. 3:22-23).
Memory Verse for the Week: Romans 6:15

[Judy Harder]

Read Ephesians 1 – 3

Highlights:

Since we became believers in Jesus Christ our Savior (John 14:6), we have been showered with the loving-kindness of God (Eph. 1:3-8). We all . . . were by nature the children of wrath. . . . But God . . . loved us . . . through Christ Jesus (2:3-4,7). We are strengthened by His Spirit (3:16).
The little word all occurs over forty times in the brief six chapters of Ephesians. It becomes the key for the believer who will settle for nothing less than the will of God, who has chosen us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before Him in love (Eph. 1:4). God the Father ordained that Christ should be raised from the dead, and should sit at the right hand (of God) in the heavenly places, far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come: And hath put all things under His feet, and gave Him to be the Head over all things to the Church, Which is His Body (1:21-23).

The purpose of the redeeming love of God is to provide a way for mankind to receive Christ as Savior and Lord. And you hath He quickened (made alive), who were dead in trespasses and sins; Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience . . . But God, who is rich in mercy, for His great love wherewith He loved us . . . hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) . . . For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast. For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them (2:1-10).

Let us be willing to give up our all to receive His all. The all of Christ is what we must seek. His will as revealed in His Word should be our main concern. If we don't read all the Bible, it's because we foolishly think we can find all the answers without it.

It is our prayer that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him (Eph. 1:17).

Thought for Today:

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ (Eph. 1:3).
Cross References:

For Eph. 1:22: See Ps. 8:6. Eph. 2:17: See Is. 57:19.
Word Studies:

1:8 prudence, spiritual insight, knowledge and holy love of the will of God; 1:10 dispensation of the fulness of times, last period of the dealings of God with mankind on earth; 1:13 sealed, proof of ownership that we belong to the Family of God; 1:14 earnest, first installment of our inheritance; 2:1 quickened, made alive; 2:13 sometimes, formerly (not "occasionally"); 3:3 mystery, purpose of God which is hidden from the ungodly; 3:13 faint not, don't give up or be discouraged.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Officials: Rep. Jim Renacci (OH) and Rep. Eddie Bernice Johnson (TX) • Country: Honduras (6 million) in Central America • Major languages: Spanish and Indian dialects • Religious freedom • 86% Roman Catholic; 10% Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: Lift up your heart to God in prayer (Lam. 3:41).
Memory Verse for the Week: Romans 6:15