Inspiration

[Judy Harder]

February 20
Read Numbers 16 -- 18

Highlights In Today's Reading:

Today's reading is far more than incidental Hebrew history. It brings to light how envy, jealousy, and discontent destroy the usefulness of "good" people. Always remember, God will reveal His will to anyone who desires to follow it.
Korah and his followers assumed they were only opposing Moses and Aaron, but God viewed them as rebels against Himself. How far more serious sin is from what it often appears to be! Korah (a cousin of Moses) . . . took men: And . . . two hundred and fifty princes of the assembly, famous (popular) in the congregation, men of renown: And they gathered themselves together against Moses and against Aaron, and said unto them, Ye take too much upon you, seeing all the congregation are holy, every one of them, and the Lord is among them: wherefore then lift ye up yourselves above the congregation of the Lord? (16:1-3).

Although Moses and Aaron had been severely criticized and opposed by this crowd of famous Israelites who wanted to "help" him, through Aaron, Moses expressed a spirit of godly love, and made an atonement for the people (16:47). Now they that died in the plague were fourteen thousand and seven hundred people (16:49).

Few are aware that sin, no matter what form it assumes, is in reality rebellion against God. In fact, all discontent with either husband, wife, home, or any other relationship is rebellion against God. Perhaps, if we could see our complaints as they will appear when the books of eternity are opened, there would be a change in most of our attitudes!

Not what I do, Lord, nor what I say, But what I am, Lord,

matters today. Busy with nothing we fill up the years,

Hurrying, worrying, gathering tears.

Why can't I learn, Lord, that power is within,

Why can't I see, Lord, the waste of my sin?

If I could be, Lord, growing in soul,

Seeing each day, Lord, more clearly the goal.

If I could live, Lord, discerning thy face,

Ever more strongly held by thy grace; So take and mold, Lord this heart of mine, Till it shall be,

Lord, like unto thine!

M.E.H.

Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God. But exhort one another daily . . . lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin (Heb. 3:12-13).

Thought for Today:

It may surprise many to find that God views bitterness and disobedience to be much the same as rebellion or as witchcraft (II Sam. 15:23).
Christ Portrayed:

By Aaron and his sons who were responsible for making proper atonement for all of the sins of Israel (Numbers 18:1). Jesus gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from all iniquity (lawlessness) (Titus 2:14).
Word Studies:

16:6 censers =incense burners; 16:7 holy =set apart, dedicated to God; 16:31 clave asunder =split apart; 16:46 plague =fatal sickness; 16:48 stayed =stopped; 17:10 Testimony =Ark of the Covenant; take away =put an end to; 18:1 bear the iniquity of =be answerable for the sins against; 18:3 thy charge =your responsibilities; 18:5 wrath =further judgment; 18:9 oblation =offering; 18:11 statute =perpetual allowance; clean =cleansed from sin; 18:15 everything that openeth the matrix =very firstborn; matrix =womb; 18:17 firstling =firstborn; 18:19 covenant of salt =permanent contract; 18:21 an inheritance =their recompense; 18:27 corn =grain; 18:30 heaved =lifted up; 18:31 reward = wages.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Shortwave Broadcasts in memory of Henry Rogers • Staff: Gina Lesnefsky • Government Official: Sen. Mitch McConnell, Jr. (KY) • Country: Bosnia and Hercegovina (4 million) on the Balkan Peninsula in southeastern Europe • Major language: Serbo-Croatian • Little evangelism being done • 40% Muslim; 28% Serbian Orthodox; 14% Roman Catholic • Prayer Suggestion: Ask for your daily needs (Matt. 6:11).
Optional Reading: Luke 7

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 5:9

[Judy Harder]

Week of February 20

"Give Us This Day Our Daily Bread."
by Max Lucado

What a statement of trust! Whatever you want me to have is all I want. Some days the plate runs over. God keeps bringing out more food and we keep loosening our belt. A promotion. A privilege. A friendship. A gift. A lifetime of grace. An eternity of joy. There are times when we literally push ourselves back from the table, amazed at God's kindness. "You serve me a six-course dinner right in front of my enemies. You revive my drooping head; my cup fills with blessing" (Ps. 23:5 MSG).

And then there are those days when, well, when we have to eat our broccoli. Our daily bread could be tears or sorrow or discipline. Our portion may include adversity as well as opportunity.

This verse was on my mind last night during family devotions. I called my daughters to the table and set a plate in front of each. In the center of the table I placed a collection of food: some fruit, some raw vegetables and some Oreo cookies. "Every day," I explained, "God prepares for us a plate of experiences. What kind of plate do you most enjoy?"

The answer was easy. Sara put three cookies on her plate. Some days are like that, aren't they? Some days are "three cookie days." Many are not. Sometimes our plate has nothing but vegetables--twenty-four hours of celery, carrots, and squash. Apparently God knows we need some strength, and though the portion may be hard to swallow, isn't it for our own good? Most days, however, have a bit of it all. Vegetables, which are healthy but dull. Fruit, which tastes better and we enjoy. And even an Oreo, which does little for our nutrition, but a lot for our attitude.

All are important and all are from God.

The next time your plate has more broccoli than apple pie, remember who prepared the meal. And the next time your plate has a portion you find hard to swallow, talk to God about it. Jesus did. In the garden of Gethsemane his Father handed him a cup of suffering so sour, so vile, that Jesus handed it back to heaven. "My Father," he prayed, "if it is possible may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will" (Matt. 26:39).

Even Jesus was given a portion he found hard to swallow. But with God's help, he did. And with God's help, you can too.


From
The Great House of God
© (Thomas Nelson Publishers, 2001) Max Lucado

[Judy Harder]

February 23
Read Numbers 23 -- 25

Highlights In Today's Reading:

Balaam prophesies blessings on Israel and yet thousands die. We learn why Phinehas is given the highest priestly honor recorded in the Old Testament.
After Israel's great victories, first over the Amorite King Sihon and then over King Og of Bashan, Balak, king of the Moabites, feared that he too would be defeated. Several times King Balak offered the prophet Balaam huge rewards if he would curse the Israelites. And the Lord put a word in Balaam's mouth. . . . God is not a man, that He should lie. . . . Behold, I have received a Commandment to bless: and He hath blessed; and I cannot reverse it. He hath not beheld iniquity in Jacob, neither hath He seen perverseness in Israel: the Lord his God is with him, and the shout of a (victorious) king is among them (23:6,19-21).

Balaam desired to live and die as a child of God and as a righteous man and openly confirmed it by saying: Let me die the death of the righteous, and let my last end be like his (Jacob's) (23:10). Furthermore, he foretold the most amazing prophetic revelations from God thus far in the Bible concerning the coming of the Messiah (24:17). But Balaam's covetous desire for wealth soon caused him to compromise what he knew was God's will and provided a scheme that would lead Israel into sin. This would assure him of gaining his wealth from the Moabite king.

Balaam was one of the many people who know the right Scriptures and long to die the death of the righteous but who are unwilling to live the life of the righteous. Our natural tendency is to be drawn away from God. Even among Christians, the main topics of conversation are often centered around the things of the world. To test the true purpose of our interests, we need only to ask whether our desires lead us to God or away from Him

The Bible warns us of the dangers of worldly temptations and associations, chiefly them that walk after the flesh in the lust of uncleanness, and despise government. Presumptuous are they, selfwilled. . . . Having eyes full of adultery (evil desires), and that cannot cease from sin; beguiling unstable souls: an heart they have exercised with covetous practices; cursed children: which (for many) have forsaken the right way, and are gone astray, following the way of Balaam . . . who loved the wages of unrighteousness (II Pet. 2:10,14-15; Jude 11; Rev. 2:14).

Thought for Today:

It is time to be encouraged and to stand strong for Jesus because we must not allow evil to stand in the way of the promises of God.
Christ Revealed:

As the prophesied Star and Sceptre (Num. 24:17). Christ is coming to reign in great glory (Rev. 19:15-16). Unto the Son He saith, Thy throne, O God, is for ever and ever: a sceptre of righteousness is the sceptre of Thy Kingdom (Heb. 1:.
Word Studies:

23:3 peradventure =perhaps; 23:10 dust =descendants; 24:14 advertise =let you know; 24:18 do valiantly =be triumphant; 25:1 commit whoredom =have intercourse; 25:3 kindled against =became angry against; 25:7 javelin =spear; 25:13 made an atonement =affected reconciliation; 25:17 vex =besiege; 25:18 wiles =treacherous deceit; beguiled =deceived.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Radio Sri Lanka International Shortwave Broadcasts for the week in memory of Mr. & Mrs. C.O. Hicks • Staff: Jennifer Cunningham • Government Official: Rep. Kenny Marchant (TX) • Country: Brunei (400,000) on the northern coast of Borneo • Major languages: Malay and English • Limited religious freedom • 66% Muslim; 19% Chinese religions; 6% animist; 4% Protestant; 4% Roman Catholic • Prayer Suggestion: Ask the Lord to forgive you of all ill will, grudges, or hatred you may hold in your heart toward another person (Matt. 6:14-15).
Optional Reading: Luke 10

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 5:10

[Judy Harder]

February 24
Read Numbers 26 -- 27

Highlights In Today's Reading:

Following one failure after another, the nation regroups and preparation of the new generation to enter the promised land begins. Much can be learned by us from the events disclosed in today's reading. A generation was lost -- ALL the adults except Caleb and Joshua. Moses prepares to die and Joshua becomes the new commander-in-chief.
Once again, the Lord reminded the great leader of Israel that he could not enter the promised land. God had commanded Moses (20: to take the rod and speak to the rock. But Moses smote the rock and spoke to the people: Hear now, ye rebels; must we fetch you water (20:10). He did not fully acknowledge God in the miracle but included for himself equal honor and authority that belonged to God alone.

The rod symbolized the authority of God and Moses represented that authority before the nation but, on this one occasion, he represented the authority of Moses.

Moses is now given instructions concerning the apportionment of the land, which was to be divided among the tribes in proportion to their size: And the Lord spake unto Moses saying, Unto these the land shall be divided for an inheritance according to the number of names. To many thou shalt give the more inheritance . . . to every one shall his inheritance be given according to those that were numbered of him (26:52-54).

God is faithful to His Word and to His promises. He said that none of the earlier generation of Israel would enter into the promised land because of their sin and unbelief (26:64-65), except for Joshua and Caleb who had remained faithful to the Lord.

Only one sin kept Moses from the promised land, but Moses represented the Law that cannot allow even one exception. For whosoever shall keep the whole Law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all (James 2:10). The promised land was given to Israel through Abraham, the man of faith. The Law of God could never bring one man -- not even Moses -- into the promised land. There arose not a prophet since in Israel like unto Moses, whom the Lord knew face to face (Deut. 34:10). Yet, Moses had to die and Joshua, a type of Christ, had to take his place. Jesus' Name in Hebrew was also Joshua (Y'shua, meaning "God is salvation"). Only the sinless Christ can lead us into our inheritance.

The Law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith (Gal. 3:24).

Thought for Today:

Disobeying the Word of God brought tragic results in the past and still brings serious consequences.
Christ Portrayed:

By the man (Joshua) who would lead the people like a shepherd (Num. 27:17). Jesus said: I am the Good Shepherd. . . . My sheep . . . follow Me (John 10:11,27).
Word Studies:

26:2 the sum =a census; 26:9 strove against =rebelled against; 26:61 strange =unauthorized; 27:13 shall be gathered to =shall die; 27:14 sanctify Me =by strict obedience and submission; 27:18 lay thine hand =transfer authority; 27:19 give him a charge =commission him as your successor.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Shortwave Broadcasts in memory of Letha Hash • Staff: Barbara Jean Loyd • Government Official: Sen. Joe Lieberman (CT) • Country: Bulgaria (8.2 million) in southeastern Europe • Major languages: Bulgarian and ethnic languages • Newly opened to evangelism • 85% Eastern Orthodox; 12% Muslim Sunni; 1% Shi'a Muslim; .6% Catholic; .27% Protestant; .1% Armenian Gregorian; .03% Jewish; 1% Other • Prayer Suggestion: Pray and fast in secret so that only the Lord knows (Matt. 6:16-18).
Optional Reading: Luke 11

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 5:10

[Judy Harder]

Bible Pathways Devotional
Welcome to the Bible Pathways Devotional, a free devotional from Crosswalk.com, the world's largest Christian website.

February 25
Read Numbers 28 -- 29

Highlights In Today's Reading:

You will be fascinated with the details of Israel's great Feasts (Festivals) since they reveal the sacrificial love of Christ and its many aspects. As all the offerings are precisely initiated, a second generation, after 40 years, prepares to enter the promised land.
The Feast of Trumpets summoned Israel to the presence of Jehovah who had blessed their labors. It was held on the first day of October, which began the Jewish civil New Year. By this time, the harvest was over and the silver trumpets called them from the busy cares and thoughts of earthly things that had occupied their time for many months. And in the seventh month, on the first day of the month, ye shall have a holy convocation; ye shall do no servile work: it is a day of blowing the trumpets unto you (29:1).

Instead of blowing the trumpets at the time of offering the sacrifice, it was a day of blowing trumpets from morning to evening. In addition to the daily sacrifices, eleven animals were offered on the first of every month (28:11,15). They offered a young bullock, a ram, and seven lambs with the usual Meat (Meal) Offering, and an additional Sin Offering. Even in this scene of thanksgiving and worship, the sin offering was needed.

The longest period of time between any of the feasts was between the Feast of Weeks (Pentecost) in the early part of Summer, our May or June, and the Feasts of the Trumpets in September or October. During the intervening months there was no fixed time appointed when God would meet with His people.

The long period of time between the Feast of Pentecost and the Feast of Trumpets is the design of God foretelling the long lapse of time from the arrival of the Holy Spirit as promised by our Savior on Pentecost to the return of Christ. Almost two thousand years have passed and we are reminded every time the sun sets that we are one day nearer to that great day:

When the trumpet of the Lord shall sound,

And time shall be no more,

And the morning breaks, eternal, bright and fair;

When the saved of the earth shall gather

Over on the other shore,

And the roll is called up yonder, I'll be there.

Hymn by James M. Black

So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory (I Cor. 15:54)

Thought for Today:

When we consider the trumpets sounding the end of time as we know it, the Word of God becomes all the more meaningful when He said: Be ye therefore ready (Luke 12:40).
Christ Revealed:

By the tabernacles (booths, temporary dwellings) (Num. 29:12-39; Lev. 23:34,42-43). The Word (Logos, i.e. the sayings of God) was made (became) flesh, and dwelt among us (John 1:14). The Greek word translated dwelt means to "tabernacle or live in a tent temporarily."
Word Studies:

28:2 sweet savour =pleasing fragrance; 28:3 spot =defect; 28:6 ordained =instituted by God; 28:13 several =separate; 28:18 holy convocation =sacred assembly; 29:2 sweet savour =pleasing fragrance; 29:6 month =new moon; 29:7 afflict your souls =b> have a day of solemn fasting, soul searching, prayer, and repentance of all known sin; 29:10 several =separate; 29:17 spot =defect; 29:35 solemn =sacred.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Shortwave Broadcasts in memory of Iva Ann McElroy • Staff: Mike Moore • Government Official: Rep. Jim Gerlach (PA) • Country: Burkina Faso (11 million) in western Africa • Major languages: French and Sudanic tribal languages • Religious freedom • 48% Muslim; 33% belief in false gods, idolatry, and heathenism; 14% Roman Catholic; 5% Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: Do not worry about your material needs (Matt. 6:25-30).
Optional Reading: Luke 12

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 5:10

[Judy Harder]

February 26
Read Numbers 30 -- 31

Highlights In Today's Reading:

Note the godly principles in today's reading. Integrity -- If a man vow a vow (30:2). Vengeance -- The Lord is the only One qualified to take vengeance (Heb. 10:30).
The judgment of God upon sin is inevitable because His holiness requires it. Twenty-four thousand men died for the idolatrous and immoral sins which they committed with Midianite women at Baal-Peor. And the day came when the Lord spake unto Moses, saying, Avenge the children of Israel of the Midianites. . . . And Moses spake unto the people, saying, Arm some of yourselves unto the war, and let them go against the Midianites, and avenge the Lord of Midian. . . . And they slew . . . five kings of Midian . . . they slew with the sword (Num. 31:1-3,8).

Although Israel's army numbered more than six hundred thousand, only a small army of twelve thousand men were used to accomplish God's purpose (26:51; 31:5). Most prominent in this battle was Phinehas the priest with the silver trumpets. Israel's confidence rested in the promise of God: If ye go to war in your land against the enemy that oppresseth you, then ye shall blow an alarm with the trumpets; and ye shall be remembered before the Lord your God, and ye shall be saved from your enemies (10:9). God gave Israel an overwhelming victory without the loss of a single Israelite.

Among the thousands of Midianites that were slaughtered, it is more than coincidental that the Lord had recorded: Balaam also, the son of Beor, they slew with the sword (31:. Yes, it was the same Balaam who once had said: I cannot go beyond the word of the Lord my God (22:18) and: Let me die the death of the righteous (23:10). But Balaam died as he had lived -- in fellowship with the heathen Moabites. He belonged to the great number of people who pray to die the death of the righteous but who are not living the life of the righteous. Jesus reminded us that not every one that saith unto Me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdomof heaven; but he that doeth the will of My Father which is in heaven (Matt. 7:21). There is a day of recompense awaiting both the saved and the lost, so let us live accordingly (Heb. 9:27; John 5:29).

When God's people suffer injustice and cruelty at the hands of the godless they are to remember the divine exhortation: Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine: I will repay, saith the Lord (Rom. 12:19).

Thought for Today:

Our past failures teach us the need to quickly turn from sin: Flee also youthful lusts (II Timothy 2:22).
Christ Portrayed:

By Moses who judged Israel's actions and passed sentence (Numbers 31:1-17). In righteousness He doth judge (Rev. 19:11; II Thess. 1:7-9; Jude 1:14-15).
Word Studies:

30:2 bind his soul =must not break his word; 30:3 bond =promises; 30:4 hold his peace at =say nothing to; 30:5 disallow =forbid; 30:7 hold his peace at =said nothing; 30:9 their souls =themselves; 30:13 void =invalid; 30:16 statutes =regulations; 31:2 be gathered unto your people =die; 31:11 spoil =plunder; 31:21 ordinance of the Law =Biblical Law; 31:23 purified =ceremonially purified; 31:26 prey =booty; 31:28 tribute =tax; 31:28 beeves =battle; 31:29 for an heave offering =to be presented as a sacrifice to the Lord, by the gesture of waving before the altar; 31:32 booty =spoils; 31:39 tribute =assessment, portion; 31:47 charge =duties; 31:49 sum =count, accounted for; 31:50 oblation = offering; 31:51 wrought =artfully designed; 31:53 had taken spoil =had taken valuables.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Shortwave Broadcasts in memory of Letha Hash • Staff: Dan Murton • Government Official: Gov. Tim Kaine (VA) • Country: Burundi (6 million) in east-central Africa • Major languages: Kirundi and French • Losing religious freedom • 51% Roman Catholic; 12% animist; 11% Protestant; 1% Muslim • Prayer Suggestion: Trust that God will provide your needs when you put His will first in your life (Matt. 6:31-33).
Optional Reading: Luke 13

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 5:10

[Judy Harder]

February 27
Read Numbers 32 -- 33

Highlights In Today's Reading:

God had promised Abram: In the fourth generation they (the Israelites) shall come hither again: for the iniquity of the Amorites is not yet full (Gen. 15:16). But now they and the rest of the Canaanites must be expelled before Israel can possess the promised land. What a sad summary of the wilderness journeys we read -- 38 years of wasted lives.
Reuben, Gad, and Manasseh were not the first to allow possessions to come between them and the will of the Lord. Like Lot, many have a desire for worldly gain, social advantages, or personal preeminence, while they are blinded to the precious values of spiritual treasures.

Canaan was first promised to Abraham and, down through the years, men of faith looked forward to the fulfillment of the Covenant God made with Abraham that his children would inherit the promised land. When the day finally arrived for the privileged people to claim the long-awaited promised land, Reuben, Gad and Manasseh made the shameful request: Now the children of Reuben and the children of Gad had a very great multitude of cattle. . . . If we have found grace in thy sight, let this land be given unto thy servants for a possession, and bring us not over Jordan. And Moses said. . . . wherefore discourage ye the heart of the children of Israel from going over into the land which the Lord hath given them? (Num. 32:1,5-7). What a contrast to the prayer of Moses: O Lord God, I pray Thee, let me go over, and see the good land that is beyond Jordan (Deut. 3:25).

For Reuben, such was the pattern of his life. He lived to gratify himself in the present. He brought dishonor to his father (Gen. 49:3-4) and his descendants brought dishonor to the Heavenly Father by saying bring us not over Jordan. Undoubtedly they rejoiced and felt privileged when their unwise request for material advantage was granted. Like the Reubenites, many among God's people today seek worldly possessions and advantages.

God's greatest gifts and most precious promises seldom look as attractive to the natural man as his own idea of what is best. From a natural point of view it looked far more promising to choose the land this side of Jordan. As Christians we have no options; we have a Divine calling to yield our lives to fulfill the will of God who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began (II Tim. 1:9).

Thought for Today:

When we follow our own logic, we are settling for far less than the best of God.
Christ Revealed:

Through the promised land -- filled with abundance, as well as protection, for those who live in harmony with His Word (Num. 33:50-54). I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly (John 10:10).
Word Studies:

32:4 smote =conquered; 32:11 followed =obeyed; 32:14 augment =add to; 32:17 fenced =fortified, walled; 32:19 forward =beyond; 32:22 guiltless =free of obligation; 32:39 dispossessed =drove out; 33:2 goings out =starting places; 33:3 with a high hand =triumphantly; 33:52 pictures =objects of worship; quite pluck down =demolish; high places =places where shrines for idol worship were erected; 33:55 vex you =be a source of trouble.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Shortwave Broadcasts sponsored by Dr. John A. Hash • Staff: Pam Pendergrast • Country: Cambodia (12 million) in Southeast Asia • Major languages: Khmer and French • Confused and unsettled at this time • 88% Buddhist; 3% animism and spirit worship; 2% Muslim; .6% Roman Catholic/Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: Thank the Lord that you have no need to fear. Trust Him one day at a time (Matt. 6:33-34).
Optional Reading: Luke 14

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 5:10

[Judy Harder]

February 28
Read Numbers 34 -- 36

Highlights In Today's Reading:

Without hesitation, the "Master MapMaker" lays out the boundaries of the land that He gave His people after they fought to conquer it. Look how He provides for those who dedicate their lives to His service. It is of utmost importance to the Israelites to know how God expects them to deal with manslaughter and murder.
The new generation of Israelites was near Jericho but still on the east side of the Jordan River near what is now Amman, Jordan. They were about to invade the promised land to take possession. But before they did, Moses reviewed the happenings of the past 40 years in light of the Commandments of the Lord and commanded the children of Israel, saying, This is the land which ye shall inherit by lot, which the Lord commanded to give unto the nine tribes, and to the half tribe (34:13).

The territory was a very limited one. The promised land was not a continent, not even a considerable part of a continent. The Lord would teach Israel, and through them all His people, the difference between what the world has to offer and the blessing of God. Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your Heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you (Matt. 6:31-33). The territory that God thus mapped out was large enough to bring peace, prosperity, and happiness to all who were faithful to His Word. Outsiders, who did not know how blessed the nation of God was, might count the land insignificant compared to other nations in the world. In contrast, Paul, who had to work with his own hands and was no owner of land, was able to say: O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! (Rom. 11:33) and Peter said: Rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory (I Pet. 1:.

These are the Commandments and the judgments, which the Lord commanded by the hand of Moses unto the children of Israel in the plains of Moab by Jordan near Jericho (Num. 36:13). The Commandments reveal the importance of being guided by the Lord and of obedience to the Word of God. Moses reminded them of the reasons their fathers had failed to enter Canaan. He emphasized the importance of having God guide them if they were to possess the promised land. The Israelites were to live a holy life pleasing to the Lord to whom they owed their very lives. Sadly, today many Christians are making the same mistake as the Israelites. They neglect to read His Word and then wonder why they fail to receive His blessings. Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the Living God (Heb. 3:12).

Thought for Today:

The Lord told us how much better His blessings were than the things of this world when He told the psalmist to write: The Law of Thy mouth is better unto me than thousands of gold and silver (Ps. 119:72).
Christ Revealed:

By the cities of refuge (Num. 35:6). Christ is our Refuge from the judgment of God and the curse of the Law. We . . . have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us . . . even Jesus (Heb. 6:18-20).
Word Studies:

34:3 Salt Sea =ead Sea; 34:5 borders shall fetch a compass =oundary shall turn from; 34:5 goings out =nd; 34:6 Great Sea =editerranean Sea; 34:8 goings forth =oundary reach; 34:11 Chin'ne-reth =ea of Galilee; 35:2 suburbs =pen land; 35:11 unawares =nintentionally; 35:15 stranger =oreigner; sojourner =ne who lived temporarily; 35:20 thrust =aliciously shove; 35:26 come without =oes beyond; 35:31 satisfaction =ansom.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Officials: (28) Gov. Togiola Tulafono (American Samoa) and (29) Rep. Bart Stupak (MI) • Country: Cameroon (15 million) in west-central Africa • Major languages: English and French • Pressure on Christians from authorities and Muslims • 28% Roman Catholic; 23% Muslim; 18% animism, divination, and animal sacrifices; 14% Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: Ask, seek, and knock through prayer, knowing God promises to answer (Matt. 7:7-8).
Optional Reading: Luke 15

Memory Verse for the Week:

Matthew 5:10

[Judy Harder]

March 1
Read Deuteronomy 1 -- 2

Highlights In Today's Reading:

Forty years after they left Egypt, the Israelites are once again at the border of the promised land. About 2 million Israelites (all the first generation) have now died, except for three men. Why? Can you name them? Moses reminds the second generation that God commanded their parents: Go in and possess the land. . . . but (they) rebelled against the Commandment of the Lord (1:8,43).
How different the history of Israel could have been if they had trusted the Word of God instead of believing the report of the ten spies. Moses reminded them of how God had blessed them in the wilderness even after they had been disobedient: The Lord thy God hath blessed thee in all the works of thy hand . . . thou hast lacked nothing (2:7). But the first generation missed forever the blessings of Canaan (Num. 14:27-35).

To trust the Lord when we are faced with giants (13:33) and high walls (13:28) does not come naturally for anyone. These giants and high walls and are, among other things, symbolic of evil habits that attempt to control a Christian's life and are hard for Christians to overcome. They are intent on destroying our testimony as well as eventually destroying our lives. We are warned: If any man that is called a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolater, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such an one no not to eat. . . . Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the Kingdom of God? Be not deceived (I Cor. 5:11; 6:9). Yes, without a doubt your determination and faith in the power of God can overcome all the "giants" that seek to destroy your eternal destiny. Our faith in God is increased to the degree that we read, meditate upon, and obey the Word of God because faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God ( Rom. 10:17).

As we read the Bible and act upon it, the Holy Spirit's ministry is to make the Word quick (alive, active), and powerful (Heb. 4:12) so that Bible truths become an actual part of our lives. Satan is powerful but Christ and your prayers are far more powerful. Jesus said: Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in My Name, He will give it you (John 16:23). Then, we need not fear the strength or number of our hindrances, for the shield of faith . . . shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked (Eph. 6:16). We are called to be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit (5:18).

Jesus declared: Repent. . . . To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the hidden manna (Rev. 2:16-17).

Thought for Today:

The "giants" of these turbulent economic days are fearsome and, only by reading and obeying the Word of God will the Holy Spirit guide and bring us through.
Christ Portrayed:

By Moses, who spake unto the children of Israel, according unto all that the Lord had given him in Commandment unto them (Deut. 1:3). Jesus faithfully told others everything God told Him to say. I do nothing of Myself; but as My Father hath taught Me, I speak these things (John 8:28).
Word Studies:

1:12 bear =endure; cumbrance =disputes; 1:27 murmured =complained, criticized; 1:39 should be a prey =could be taken captive; 1:42 smitten =defeated; 2:1 compassed =went around; 2:14 wasted out from among the host =had died from this camp; 2:18 coast =border; 2:33 smote =defeated; 2:35 for a prey =as a prize of war; spoil =plunder.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for our Military worldwide • Arabic International Shortwave Broadcasts for the month of March sponsored by Mary Hoffmeyer • Radio Sri Lanka Shortwave Broadcasts for the week in memory of Aura Profera • Country: Canada (31 million) in North America • Major languages: English and French • Religious freedom • 47% Roman Catholic; 37% Protestant; 3% Eastern Orthodox; 2% cults; 1% Jewish • Prayer Suggestion: Seek the Lord in times of trouble (Matt. 8:24-25).
Optional Reading: Luke 16

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: Matthew 5:11

[Judy Harder]

March 2
Read Deuteronomy 3 -- 4

Highlights In Today's Reading:

Still on the east side of the Jordan River outside Canaan the Israelites defeat a giant king. Do you notice the size of his bed? Moses can't enter the promised land — emphasizing the importance of doing the will of God and not claiming credit to self for what God is doing. Catch the real reason God created the sun, moon, and stars — for regulations of seasons — not for worship or fortune-telling (4:19; Genesis 1:14).
The new generation of Israel that had grown up in the wilderness realized the reason their parents, who were delivered from Egyptian slavery, failed to enter the promised land. The desert wanderings ceased as they settled into the west side of the Jordan within the promised land. Houses replaced the tents and produce from the land replaced the manna; but, most precious of all, they experienced a new revelation of God — the revelation of His love! From creation in Genesis through the Book of Numbers, the love of God was never made known until it was revealed in Deuteronomy. For the first time during the hundreds of years of recorded history, the people heard: Because He loved thy fathers, therefore He chose their seed after them, and brought thee out in His sight with His mighty power out of Egypt . . . to give thee . . . an inheritance (4:37-38). Later we read: the Lord . . . set His love upon you . . . the Lord loved you (7:7-8). And still later: the Lord thy God turned the curse into a blessing unto thee, because the Lord thy God loved thee (23:5).

Love is the holiest motive from which God or man can act. The supreme manifestation of the love of God is revealed when we read: God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son (John 3:16) that as many as received Him (Jesus) . . . gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His Name: Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God (1:12-13).

Jesus further explained how and why we receive this new nature of God: Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the Kingdom of God (3:5-7).

Believe and receive the love-gift of eternal life and let Jesus express His will through you. He said: He that hath My Commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth Me: and he that loveth Me shall be loved of My Father, and I will love him, and will manifest Myself to him (John 14:21).

Thought for Today:

Our world is often confused as to the difference between love and lust. Real love gives but lust always takes. Remember that God so loved the world, that He gave (John 3:16).
Christ Portrayed:

By Joshua who led the Israelites into their inheritance (Deut. 3:28). Through Jesus we receive His promised inheritance among them which are sanctified (set apart) by faith that is in Me (Acts 26:18).
Word Studies:

3:5 fenced =fortified; 3:7 spoil =plunder; prey =prize of the war; 3:18 meet =fit; 3:28 charge =commission; 4:2 diminish ought =take away anything; 4:10 fear =have reverential heartfelt submission to; 4:13 covenant =binding agreement with qualifications given by God; 4:14 possess =give in; 4:19 divided =allotted; 4:27 heathen =gentile people; 4:30 tribulation =distress, suffering; 4:34 assayed =ever tried; 4:37 seed =descendants; in His sight =by His presence; 4:40 prolong thy days =live long; 4:41 severed =separated; 4:42 unawares =accidentally; hated . . . not =without malice.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for English International Shortwave Broadcasts to Middle East sponsored by Mr. & Mrs. Casmir A. Zuranski • English International Shortwave Broadcasts for the month to Africa sponsored by Thomas & Mary Beaghen • Staff: Dr. John A. Hash • Government Officials: Rep. Christopher Carney (PA), Rep. Rosa DeLauro (CT), Sen. Russell Feingold (WI), and Sen. Ken Salazar (CO) • Country: Cape Verde (405,000) 15 islands in the Atlantic Ocean, 390 miles off the coast of Africa • Major languages: Portuguese and Crioulo • Religious freedom • 91% Roman Catholic; 3% Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: Pray the Lord of the harvest to send workers to harvest for Him (Matt. 9:38).
Optional Reading: Luke 17

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 5:11