Bible Pathways

[Judy Harder]

July 12
Read Psalms 101 -- 105

Highlights In Today's Reading:

Let your spirit soar as you join King David in humility and glory singing and worshiping God the Righteous King. The reading closes with a historical retrospect and celebration of the Exodus from Egypt.
God often has painful surprises in His leading such as a famine driving the people from the promised land, yet contributing to their possession of it. That famine occurred in the time of Jacob and forced him to migrate into Egypt (Gen. 41:56-57; 42:1-5). This famine was no chance occurrence; God ordered it (15:13). Furthermore, to fulfill His purpose, God allowed Joseph to be forced into Egypt.

After many years of suffering as a slave, the Lord elevated Joseph to be the second most powerful man in Egypt. Joseph's position in Egypt as the anointed deliverer of the chosen people was not by accident or the genius of man and Joseph knew it. Instead of denouncing his brothers for their cruel treatment of him, he said: Be not grieved, nor angry with yourselves, that ye sold me hither: for God did send me before you to preserve life (45:5).

For many years Joseph could not have understood his unfortunate series of circumstances that went from bad to worse so, it is said, the Word of the Lord tried him (Ps. 105:19). God had promised his family the possession of Canaan and, in his dreams, he had recognized himself as the exalted and honored deliverer of his family. Joseph dreamed a dream, and he told it his brethren. . . . your sheaves . . . made obeisance to my sheaf. . . . The sun and the moon and the eleven stars made obeisance to me (Gen. 37:5-9).

During the years of his suffering and imprisonment, his faith was tested. For years, it seemed impossible for God to fulfill His Word and use Joseph according to his dream. God often moves in a way that is mysterious to us, but He will always accomplish His purpose and fulfill His promises.

About 13 years after Joseph had been sold by his brothers, Pharaoh sent and called Joseph, and they brought him hastily out of the dungeon. . . . and he made him ruler over all the land of Egypt (41:14-15,43).

This incident of divine providence encourages us to trust God amid life's mysteries.

The Lord is never late, even when His time isn't the time we would choose. His one desire is to build godly qualities into our lives that are pleasing to Him. Perhaps it is patience or gentleness that we need. Let all who suffer wrongly trust fully in the Lord. The salvation of the righteous is of the Lord: He is their strength in the time of trouble. And the Lord shall help them, and deliver them: He shall deliver them from the wicked, and save them, because they trust in Him (Ps. 37:39-40). God is no respecter of persons (Acts 10:34).

Thought for Today:

But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness (I Tim. 6:11).
Christ Revealed:

As the One who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases (Ps. 103:3). Forgiveness of sin and the healing power of God describe the ministry of our Lord Jesus, who was sent to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, To preach the acceptable year of the Lord (Luke 4:18-19; Matt. 9:6).
Word Studies:

101:2 perfect heart = blameless; one of integrity; 101:4 froward heart = an obstinate and evil mind; 101:5 cut off = destroy; suffer = tolerate; 101:7 tarry = continue to dwell; 102:26 wax old = deteriorate; 104:9 bound = boundary; 104:13 chambers = dwelling place, heavens; 105:19 tried him = tested him severely.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Arabic International Shortwave Broadcasts for the week sponsored by Helen Gawel • Staff: Al Joslyn • Government Official: Rep. Betty McCollum (MN) • Country: St. Kitts-Nevis (42,000) in the Leeward Islands of the West Indies • Major language: English • Religious freedom • 74% Protestant; 7% Roman Catholic • Prayer Suggestion: Have faith that God always keeps His promises (Gen. 17:16 & 21:2-3).
Optional Reading: I Timothy 3

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 7:24
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[Judy Harder]

July 13
Read Psalms 106 -- 107

Highlights In Today's Reading:

Want to take a 40-year trip? Travel with God's people as they relive their desert wanderings. They confess their sins, including: lusted (106:14), murmured (106:25), mingled among the heathen (106:35), shed innocent blood (106:38). Finally, they praise God for their deliverance (note 107:19-20). There is a refrain in vss 8,15, 21,31
The magnificence of Israel's history was not the result of her heroes, priests, or prophets, but rather it was the fulfillment of the Word of God (Gen. 12:7). Accordingly, all failures which were written in their history, all losses, defeats in battle, famines, and exiles were to be seen as consequences of disobedience to His Word: They believed not His Word (Ps. 106:24).

It is significant that the psalmist said: He sent His Word, and healed them (107:20) rather than: "The Lord healed them." It simply means there is nothing of this world that will sustain one's spiritual nature and nothing in it will satisfy the hungering and thirsting of the soul. His Word alone is the infallible healer of all sufferings and sorrows. There is no other reliable source of counsel for the inner conflicts that seek to control our minds and emotions.

He sent His Word -- Yes, this is the same Word by which the heavens were made (33:6) and by which our lives are brought into a spiritual relationship with Him. His Word is Jesus come in the flesh as well as His Written Word: In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God (John 1:1). His Written Word, when believed and acted upon, is the means God has chosen to supply and satisfy every need through Jesus the Living Word (Phil. 4:19).

God teaches us the necessity of faith in His Word and its unlimited resources. As our Lord often said: All things are possible to him that believeth (Mark 9:23). Experience has taught us that most of us are prone to view our problems based on our human abilities. But, throughout the Bible, we are taught the absolute necessity of relying on the Word of God to reveal His will for every problem and every situation -- without exception. Through daily Bible reading and prayer, we obtain the insight to guide us to fulfill all His promises.

The disciple whose faith brings answers to prayer has recognized the inseparable link that unites the promises of God and His commands to be obeyed. We are able to trust God in prayer to fulfill His promises to the extent of our submission to His commands.

This is the confidence that we have in Him, that, if we ask any thing according to His will, He heareth us: And if we know that He hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of Him (I John 5:14-15).

Thought for Today:

Behold, I set before you this day a blessing and a curse; A blessing, if ye obey the Commandments of the Lord your God, which I command you this day (Deut. 11:26-27).
Christ Revealed:

As the One who maketh the storm a calm (Ps. 107:29). When Jesus calmed the storm, His awestruck disciples exclaimed: What manner of Man is this, that even the winds and the sea obey Him! (Matt. 8:27). Jesus offers to calm the storms of our lives and give us His peace (John 14:27).
Word Studies:

106:20 similitude = image, likeness; 106:29 inventions = evil activities; 106:30 stayed = stopped, checked; 107:11 contemned = despised, rejected.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Shortwave Broadcasts in memory of Reverend Leonard P. Miller • Executive Director of the IBRA in our Washington DC Branch: Reverend Michael Hall • Government Official: Rep. Rob Bishop (UT) • Country: St. Lucia (154,000) in the eastern Caribbean • Major languages: English and French patois • Religious freedom • 83% Roman Catholic; 13% Protestant; 2% spirit worship • Prayer Suggestion: Pray in faith that God will bless your family (Gen. 17:18-20).
Optional Reading: I Timothy 4

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 7:24
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[Judy Harder]

July 14
Read Psalms 108 -- 118

Highlights In Today's Reading:

Picture David's mighty army as they go forth to battle singing Psalm 108! David prophetically speaks of Christ in His deity as King-Priest in Psalm 110. Let's rejoice with the psalmist in the hallelujah psalms (111-113). Israel's God, the God of Jacob, is contrasted with idols (115). I like: The Lord preserveth the simple (sincere) (116:6). Come and exalt the Messiah with us as revealed in Psalm 118 -- for His mercy endureth for ever. Then we see universal praise followed by the reason for it (119)
In a very dramatic manner, the coming King of kings was prophesied: The Lord said unto my Lord, Sit Thou at My right hand, until I make Thine enemies Thy footstool. The Lord shall send the rod of Thy strength out of Zion: rule Thou in the midst of thine enemies (110:1-2).

Christ will reign by divine appointment even though Israel, as a nation, rejected their Messiah King. But, the Stone (Christ) which the builders refused is become the Head Stone (Christ) of the corner. This is the Lord's doing; it is marvellous in our eyes. . . . Blessed be He that cometh in the Name of the Lord. . . . which hath shewed us light (118:22-23,26-27).

When we consider Him, how can we help but worship with the psalmist: Praise ye the Lord. Blessed is the man that feareth the Lord, that delighteth greatly in His Commandments (112:1). A reverential fear of God inspires a love for Him that will move us to delight in His Commandments. This reverence of God is an essential part of the life of a Christian

The Father, who in His own time will reveal His Son from Heaven, is the God who, as we wait on Him, prepares us for the revelation of His Son. It is sometimes easier to be satisfied with our Christian experiences of the past or to study the prophetic events of the future than it is to be faithful in our responsibilities of today. There is also a danger of being more occupied with the "things" that are coming than with "Him" who is to come. Let us not allow the interest and pleasure of intellectual Bible study to replace our true love of Jesus Christ and His appearing. For instance, a poor bride who is about to be married to a millionaire might only be thinking of the position and the riches that she is about to receive.

It is not when we are most occupied with prophetic "subjects" that we are in the true bride's place but when our love and attention is upon our Lord (Bridegroom) and His Word.

Wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear: For our God is a consuming fire (Heb. 12:28-29).

Thought for Today:

I am my beloved's, and his desire is toward me (Song 7:10).
Christ Revealed:

As the Stone which the builders refused (rejected) (Ps. 118:22). Christ quoted this psalm as referring to Himself when He confronted the chief priests and Pharisees and they willfully rejected Him as the Messiah (Matt. 21:42-45).
Word Studies:

108:7 mete out = measure out; 109:23 declineth = fades away; 111:7 verity and judgment = the essence of truth and justice; 112:9 horn = strength, power; 114:8 standing = pool of; 116:3 compassed me = surrounded me with terror and suffering; 118:13 thrust sore at me that I might fall = my enemy virorously sought to overthrow me.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for English International Shortwave Broadcasts & Radio Sri Lanka Broadcasts sponsored by Joseph Cusseaux • Assistant to the Executive Director of the IBRA in our Washington DC Branch: Terry Hall • Government Officials: Rep. Patrick Kennedy (RI) and Rep. Tom Latham (IA) • Country: St. Vincent and The Grenadines (120,000) in the Lesser Antilles of the eastern Caribbean • Major languages: English and French patois • Religious freedom • 50% Protestant; 17% Roman Catholic; 2% spiritist • Prayer Suggestion: Remember that nothing is too hard for the Lord (Gen. 18:14).
Optional Reading: I Timothy 5

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 7:24
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[Judy Harder]

July 15
Read Psalms 119

Highlights In Today's Reading:

In this psalm the Word of God is exalted. Every verse in this magnificent psalm magnifies the Word of God. In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. . . . All things were made by Him; and without Him was not any thing made that was made. In Him was Life; and the Life was the Light of men (John 1:1-4), and He (Jesus Christ) brings the Light of Understanding (the Written Word) to all who trust Him.
Although the writer of this psalm is unknown, David has been suggested as its author. David sought the Lord, observed His Laws, and prayed for His help -- all with his whole heart. How necessary it is when praying, reading the Word of God, or seeking His will, that we be able to say: With my whole heart have I sought Thee (Ps. 119:10). That which makes a person truly happy will have eternal value; for the things of the world soon vanish. Happiness is the outcome of a right relationship with God and living according to the way of life taught by the Word of God. Blessed (Happy) are they that keep His Testimonies, and that seek Him with the whole heart (119:2).

Full provision is made for man's happiness and is revealed in the Word of God. God alone through His Word can give delight, pleasure, and fulfillment as we get to know the unsearchable riches of Christ as written from Genesis through Revelation (Eph. 3:8; compare Luke 24:27).

Much of the emptiness among Christians today stems from being content with accepting doctrinal truth without inwardly applying it to daily experience. For many all is well if one is conservative or orthodox in doctrine and opposes error. Yet, surely, it must be obvious from the Word that we only measure up spiritually in the eyes of God as we truly inwardly accept and outwardly express His Word in our daily thoughts and conduct. Obviously, we can't live it if we don't know it. This points out the necessity of reading all the Bible. Unless we possess His life through the indwelling Holy Spirit and live by His enabling, we lack what is indispensable to spiritual growth and power.

The Pharisees cleansed the outside of the platter (their external appearance) but left the inside full of impurities (Matt. 23:25-26). Our Lord rebuked them for emphasizing doctrine and ritual and failing to deal with their heart condition. But God demands both inward and outward harmony with His Word. To have the outer without the inner is hypocrisy, but to have the inner without the outer expression we fall short of what God expects.

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).

Thought for Today:

They are turned back to the iniquities of their forefathers, which refused to hear My words; and they went after other gods to serve them: the house of Israel and the house of Judah have broken My Covenant which I made with their fathers (Jer. 11:10).
Christ Revealed:

By the psalmist who delighted in the Commandments of God (Ps. 119: 47). Christ said: I came down from heaven, not to do Mine own will, but the will of Him that sent Me (John 6:38; 15:10).
Word Studies:

119:1 the undefiled = those whose lives are beyond reproach; 119:7 uprightness of heart = sincere intent to fully obey the Word of God; 119:25 My soul cleaveth unto the dust = I am very discouraged; quicken Thou me = energize my spirit, restore my life; 119:28 melteth for heaviness = is depressed because of troubles; 119:83 like a bottle in the smoke = shriveled and worthless like a wineskin in the smoke.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Radio Sri Lanka Broadcasts sponsored by Robert and Marilee Young • Staff: Karen Hawkins • Government Officials: Rep. Daniel Lipinski (IL), Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (FL), Rep. William Thornberry (TX), and Sen. George Voinovich (OH) • Country: Taiwan, Republic of China (22 million) 77 islands off the southeastern coast of Red China • Major language: Mandarin • Religious freedom • 80% "Chinese Religions" (Buddhist/Taolist/Confucian); 4% Christianity; .2% Muslim; 14% Atheist; 1.8% Other • Prayer Suggestion: Sing praises to the Lord (Ex. 15:1-19).
Optional Reading: I Timothy 6

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 7:24
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[Judy Harder]

July 16
Read Psalms 120 -- 131

Highlights In Today's Reading:

Just as we pray in our hearts for help for our needs, protection from our enemies, or give joyful praise to God, these people sang these psalms as they journeyed to Jerusalem to the sacred feasts. Don't miss reading these special verses in today's reading.
Christians do have frustrations and fears and it is of utmost importance that we know how to resolve these emotional problems. God led the psalmist to reveal the true source of help when he wrote: In my distress I cried unto the Lord, and He heard me (120:1). The next psalm gives assurance: My help cometh from the Lord. . . . Behold, He that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep (121:2-4). To remove all fears of the future, the psalmist revealed: The Lord shall preserve thee from all evil: He shall preserve thy soul. The Lord shall preserve thy going out and thy coming in from this time forth, and even for evermore (121:7-8). As a key to making this possible, David wrote: I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the House of the Lord (122:1).

Patience is indispensable as we wait upon the Lord our God (123:2). The speaker's whole being was engaged in diligent waiting, just as the soldiers on the walls await the relief of the morning change of watch. The words they that watch (130:6) suggest the thought of a guard on duty.

At first, we may submit to the Lord even against our will because our past experiences teach us that patiently waiting is our wisest course. In waiting on God it is of infinite consequence that we desire to safely be in the loving hands of our Lord (John 10:29). We want His will in us. Waiting upon the Lord is the expression of our faith in Him and allows God to deal with us in such a way and time as He thinks best.

To many it will appear impossible and too difficult to wait upon God. To illustrate, Saul thought he couldn't wait. Consequently we read: But now thy kingdom shall not continue: the Lord hath sought Him a man after His own heart (I Sam. 13:14). The one who knows God will not depend upon his own judgment or his own ability but will wait until God gives direction. Patiently waiting upon God is a test of our faith in Him and brings His rich reward: They shall inherit the earth (Ps. 37:9).

Just one more thing -- getting impatient with the Lord's delay may forfeit His fulfilling your heart's desire. Just rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for Him. And if you sometimes feel as if patience is not your gift, then remember it is the gift of God.

Giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness (II Pet. 1:5-6).

Thought for Today:

Come unto Me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest (Matt. 11:28).
Christ Revealed:

As our Protector -- the One who shall preserve thy going out and thy coming in (Ps. 121:. By Me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture (John 10:9). The Lord shall deliver me from every evil work, and will preserve me unto His heavenly kingdom: to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen (II Tim. 4:18).
Word Studies:

130:3 mark = keep a record of; 130:4 feared = had reverential, heartfelt submission to; 131:1 exercise = concern; things too high for me = things beyond my comprehension.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Shortwave Broadcasts sponsored by Thursday Morning Prayer • Staff: George Kopchak • Government Officials: Rep. Barbara Lee (CA), Rep. Donald Payne (NJ), Rep. Mike Rogers (AL), and Rep. Tim Ryan (OH) • Country: Tajikistan (6 million) southeast central Asia • Major languages: Tajik and Russian • Almost entirely Muslim • 82% Muslim; 4% Russian Orthodox • Prayer Suggestion: Beseech the Lord in intercessory prayer for others when you have questions (Ex. 32:11).
Optional Reading: II Timothy 1

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 7:24
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[Judy Harder]

Read Psalms 132 -- 138

Highlights In Today's Reading:

Can we even count the number of times the Lord rescued David? And he never lost a war. These first five chapters are full of trust and love for the Lord as David recalls the blessings and contrasts the One True God with worthless idols. Do we qualify as the Lord's peculiar (very special) treasure (135:4; Ex. 19:5; Titus 2:14; I Pet. 2:9)? Psalm 136 is called The Great Hallel and was sung during Passover.
Another of David's best known psalms is 138: I will praise Thee with my whole heart . . . I sing praise unto Thee. I will worship toward Thy Holy Temple, and praise Thy Name for Thy lovingkindness and for Thy truth: for Thou hast magnified Thy Word above all Thy Name (Ps. 138:1-2).

Those who form the family of God should surely live together in peace and harmony. You will be unable to discover any beauty worth speaking of in the false unity created and maintained by compromise of principles and man-made rules and regulations. Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity! (133:1).

The unity that is pleasant to the Lord is the unity of Christians brought about through the Holy Spirit. It is like many musicians in a great orchestra playing in harmony. There may be a great diversity of instruments, yet there is perfect unity. The word pleasant denotes delightful and lovely. It should be an attitude manifestation toward others.

Psalm 133 was sung three times a year by those who went to worship at Jerusalem on the appointed feast days of God (Ex. 23:17; Deut. 16:16). There were all kinds of people on the road to Jerusalem, but they had one thing in common -- they were all going to the City of God to worship their Lord.

In keeping with this spirit of unity are the words of Abram to Lot and they are still applicable for Christians under every circumstance: Let there be no strife, I pray thee, between me and thee . . . for we be brethren (Gen. 13:. In contrast to this we are told: He that soweth discord among brethren is an abomination unto the Lord (Prov. 6:19).

All true believers in Christ regardless of denomination, nationality, education, or wealth have been redeemed by the same Savior, serve the same Master, cherish the same hope, and are looking forward to the same heaven. All of us are subject to trials, temptations, and sorrows and no one is perfect or knows all the answers (including me). But we all are led by the same Spirit. It is therefore an expression of His love to dwell together in unity and to let brotherly love continue (Heb. 13:1).

Jesus said: By this shall all men know that ye are My disciples, if ye have love one to another (John 13:35).

Thought for Today:

And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works (Heb. 10:24).
Christ Revealed:

As the descendant of David who would sit upon David's throne (Ps. 132:11). He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto Him the throne of His father David (Luke 1:32; Acts 2:29-30).
Word Studies:

132:6 Ephratah = the district in which Bethlehem was located; 132:11 fruit = offspring; 132:17 horn = authority, power; the horn of David to bud = David's dynasty to the future Kingdom of Christ to flourish; 135:4 Jacob . . . His peculiar (special and precious, chosen) treasure = the people of God are God's own possession; 135:14 the Lord . . . will repent Himself concerning His servants = God will have compassion upon His people; 136:12 a stretched out arm = mighty power; 137:3 wasted = plundered; 137:4 strange = foreign; 137:7 Rase = Overthrow, Destroy, Demolish.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Shortwave Broadcasts in honor of Linda Kennon • Staff: Gina Lesnefsky • Country: Tanzania (31.3 million) in eastern Africa • Major languages: Swahili and English • Churches are expected to help implement Marxist policy • 45% Christian; 19% Muslim; .4% Baha'i; .1% Hindu; 35.5% Other • Prayer Suggestion: Intercede for others (Ex. 32:31-32).
Optional Reading: II Timothy 2

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 7:24
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[Judy Harder]

July 18
Read Psalms 139 -- 143

Highlights In Today's Reading:

Psalm 139 proclaims the universal presence and infinite knowledge of God and how He knows our every thought, word, and deed. This could be anyone of us speaking to God.The closing prayer is one of the most needed prayers in the whole Bible. The last four psalms are David's heartfelt pleas for protection.
A sincere love of God prompts a clear break from sin, as indicated by David's intense concern about himself: Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts (139:23). This request expresses sincerity. It is not the request of one who was ignorant of his true character and inflated with presumption but of one who thoroughly knew his natural human tendency to self-deception. Just as one unguarded entrance to a high-walled city may admit an invading horde, David knew that yielding to one temptation could weaken an otherwise guarded life.

Let us be well assured that God alone knows our hearts completely (I Chr. 28:9). The question is: "How does God make known to us that which is known so perfectly to Him?" Let us take David as an example. For months after his great sins of adultery and murder, he apparently lived without confession and without forgiveness and without his conscience convicting him because he was in all other activities appearing as a very good and gracious king of the kingdom of God. But, after one year the prophet Nathan was led of God to say: Wherefore hast thou despised the Commandment of the Lord, to do evil in His sight? . . . Therefore the sword shall never depart from thine house. . . . Thus saith the Lord . . . I will raise up evil against thee (II Sam. 12:9-11). It was the authoritative Word of God that brought conviction and exposed David's wickedness to his own heart. Deeply grieved, David confessed his sin, repented, and was pardoned by God and restored to fellowship with Him. But as God foretold, David suffered many tragedies to the day of his death.

When he denied his Lord, Peter remembered the Word of Jesus (Matt. 26:75). That Word searched his heart, and he went out and wept bitterly. The Word, by the power of the Holy Spirit, is the instrument which the Lord God uses today to search the depths of the human heart. David revealed this to Solomon when he said: Thou, Solomon my son, know thou the God of thy father, and serve Him with a perfect heart and a willing mind: for the Lord searcheth all hearts, and understandeth all the imaginations of the thoughts: if thou seek Him, He will be found of thee; but if thou forsake Him, He will cast thee off for ever (I Chr. 28:9).

Have you joined David in the words by which he closed this Psalm, saying: How precious also are Thy thoughts unto me, O God! (Ps. 139:17)?

Thought for Today:

For the Word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart (Heb. 4:12).
Christ Revealed:

As the One who deals bountifully with (recompenses) us (Ps. 142:7). I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly (John 10:10; Jer. 29:11).
Word Studies:

139:15 curiously wrought = skillfully fashioned; 140:5 gins = lures, traps, snares; 141:7 Our bones are scattered at the grave's mouth = Overwhelming destruction is contemplated (see Ezek. 37); 143:3 smitten = crushed, struck
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Officials: Rep. William Delahunt (MA), Rep. Harry Mitchell (AZ), Rep. Mark Souder (IN), and Sen. Mark Udall (CO) • Country: Thailand (60 million) in Southeast Asia • Major languages: Thai and English • Limited freedom of Christian ministry; Buddhism is the state religion • 92% Buddhist; 4% Muslim; 2% Chinese folk-religionist; 1% Christian • Prayer Suggestion: Ask God to show you His ways (Ex. 33:13).
Optional Reading: II Timothy 3

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 7:24
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[Judy Harder]

July 19
Read Psalms 144 -- 150

Highlights In Today's Reading:

We open with one of David's battle songs sung by his men as he marches forth to war (144). The second (145) may have been sung by David's soldiers after victory in battle. The last five psalms are a grand outburst of Hallelujah songs to the majesty of our Lord. God reigns; Let all Creation praise the One True Triune God; Let the angels praise God; Let the saints Praise God.
The psalmist declared that no man, not even the most powerful or the smartest, has power to save himself or others. His breath goeth forth, he returneth to his earth; in that very day his thoughts perish (146:4). When their breathing stops, they (the body) return to the earth.

All that anyone, the poorest person, a president, or a millionaire will eventually have will be his grave. They (We all) die, and return to their (our) dust (104:29). When death comes, all that is material or physical comes to an end. Christians can rejoice knowing that all that is spiritual is eternal and is in the loving hands of the Almighty God and destined for eternal life with our Lord. But all who have rejected Christ as their Savior face eternal death to be cast into outer darkness and in the torment of hell. Happy is he that hath the God of Jacob for his help, whose hope is in the Lord his God (146:5). All of our plans, popularity, and power which relate to this world will be cut off by death. Too quickly the achievements and the influence of one age is forgotten in the next. Today's heroes and those who are the masters of the world's intellect and influence at this point in time will be ignored tomorrow. Therefore: Cursed be the man that trusteth in man (mere humans) . . . and whose heart departeth from the Lord (Jer. 17:5).

This means, first of all, at the beginning of each day we should yield ourselves for Christ's holy presence to freely work in and through us. It means a voluntary, intentional and wholehearted turning away from the world to wait on God to make Himself known to our inner man (Eph. 3:16). It means giving time, and all our heart and strength, to allow God to reveal Himself. It is impossible to expect the abiding presence of Christ to be outwardly evident throughout our day unless there is a definite daily exercise of childlike trust in His Word and willful submission to His leading on our part.

King David is our example, for his trust was only in God and he sought the Lord's guidance throughout most of his reign. David often called upon God in prayer and he had the assurance of the nearness of God. The secret to this assurance was that he loved the Word of God and prayed according to His will.

The Lord knoweth the thoughts of the wise, that they are vain (empty, profitless). Therefore let no man glory in men (I Cor. 3:20-21).

Thought for Today:

Thy Word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against Thee (Ps. 119:11).
Christ Revealed:

As the One who gives sight to the blind (Ps. 146:. Jesus Christ opened blind eyes. Then touched He their eyes . . . . And their eyes were opened (Matt. 9:27-30; Mark 10:46-52; John 9:1-41).
Word Studies:

144:7 rid = rescue; 144:13 garners = grain storehouses; 145:3 unsearchable = beyond our understanding; 147:4 telleth = counts; 148:7 dragons = large sea animals.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Radio Sri Lanka Broadcasts sponsored by Mr. and Mrs. Walter G. Clark • Government Official: Rep. John Campbell (CA) • Country: Tibet (province of China) (4.6 million, from 1990 census) in eastern Asia • Major language: Tibetan • The Chinese government is still committed to promoting atheism, while at the same time, officially permitting Lamaism (a form of Buddhism) • 97% Tibetan Buddhist; 1% Muslim; 1% Bon; 1% Other • Prayer Suggestion: Bow before the Lord in a godly reverence as you pray and worship (Ex. 34:.
Optional Reading: II Timothy 4

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 9:37
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[Judy Harder]

July 20
Read Proverbs 1 -- 3

Highlights In Today's Reading:

The theme of Proverbs is wisdom. Compare Matthew 7:24-27. Knowledge is the ability to acquire facts and wisdom the ability to rightfully apply those facts (Prov. 2:1-6). The wise are protected and preserved (2:8; 3:5-6); in contrast, for the simple, the fools, and the scorners (1:4,7; 3:34) there's a price to pay if wisdom is rejected (1:24-28).
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction. . . . But whoso hearkeneth unto Me shall dwell safely, and shall be quiet from fear of evil (1:7,33).

There is a promise in connection with spiritual wisdom. If thou . . . searchest for her as for hid treasures; Then shalt thou understand the fear of the Lord, and find the knowledge of God (2:4-5). Many understand most of the literal meaning of the Bible, but many do not comprehend its spiritual significance because they have not submitted to its guidance. When wisdom entereth into thine heart, and knowledge is pleasant unto thy soul; Discretion shall preserve thee, understanding shall keep thee (2:10-11). The Apostle Paul said: We speak the wisdom of God. . . . hath revealed them unto us by His Spirit. . . . Which things also we speak . . . comparing spiritual things with spiritual (I Cor. 2:7,10,13). The concept of many of the scribes and Pharisees in the days of our Lord is that they were secure in their religious position and refused to give up their authority. Consequently, they saw Jesus and heard what He said and yet they were blind as to who He really was (Matt. 13:13; John 9:39). The natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned (I Cor. 2:14).

How long, ye simple ones, will ye love simplicity? and the scorners delight in their scorning, and fools hate knowledge (Prov. 1:22). The simple ones are not the ignorant, but rather those who allow worldly interests to become the motivating force in their lives. The simple ones often become scorners -- more fixed in their disinterest of the truth of the Word of God. They gradually become hardened in sin and hate knowledge. Then God calls them fools. Fools refuse the warning that would awaken them to the fear of God. Since they ignore His Word, it cannot deliver them. Finally, destruction cometh as a whirlwind (1:27). The fear of the Lord embodies a complete reverence of and devotion to God -- an unconditional subjection of one's own self to His will.

Jesus said: If any man will do His will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself (John 7:17).

Thought for Today:

And that from a child thou hast known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus (II Tim. 3:15).
Christ Revealed:

As the Creator who founded the earth . . . He established the heavens (Prov. 3:19). All things were created by Him, and for Him (Col. 1:16; Eph. 3:9; Heb. 1:2-3).
Word Studies:

1:4 give subtilty to the simple = impart knowledge to the teachable; 1:11 lurk privily = wait secretly; 1:28 early = diligently; 2:1 hide . . . with thee = receive and treasure in your heart; 2:7 buckler = a shield used in hand-to-hand combat; 2:12 froward = perverse, corrupt, opposed to God; 2:16 strange woman = adulteress; 3:26 thy foot from being taken = your life from dangerous sins.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Shortwave Broadcasts sponsored by a family that loves Jesus • Staff: Barbara Jean Loyd • Government Official: Sen. Barbara Mikulski (MD) • Country: Togo (5 million) in western Africa • Major languages: French and several African languages • Limited religious freedom • 41% belief in false gods and voodoo; 32% Roman Catholic; 19% Muslim; 8% Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: Ask for the Lord's blessings and peace upon His children (Num. 6:24-27).
Optional Reading: Titus 1

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 9:37
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[Judy Harder]

July 21
Read Proverbs 4 -- 7

Highlights In Today's Reading:

How often have we heard someone say they wished they had known what they know now when they were young? Truly listening to the instruction of a father (4:1) will spare a child heartache and misery. Read the pitfalls of wicked living, bad company, immorality, and temptation. Don't miss the wise way to live (4:18,20-22)! It is of utmost importance that you know the seven things that the Lord hates (6:16-19). Again a simple person is pointed out and his destination predicted (7:7; 7:24-27).
The first of the seven deadly sins is a proud look (6:16-19). Of all kinds of sin, pride naturally comes first, for it precedes all other sins (see Gen 3:5).

All sin is selfishness in some form or another, and pride consists essentially in sinful self-esteem, delighting in the thought of one's superiority over his fellows. This characteristic of Satan underlies the following six sins that are an abomination unto God. All of them are manifestations of hatred against one's neighbor and four consist of displaying falseness and malice proceeding from the mouth. Because of unrestrained speech, the effectiveness of many Christians is seriously curtailed. Instead of being instruments of blessings in the Lord's service, they make little impact for Christ because of constant careless talk.

An obligation rests upon every Christian to let his words be an overflow of the Spirit-filled life. We cannot offer a member of our body for His use on one occasion and then on the next, use it to deceive or destroy another. Therewith bless we God, even the Father; and therewith curse we men, which are made after the similitude of God. Out of the same mouth proceedeth blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not so to be (James 3:9-10). According to Ecclesiastes 5:3 we can detect the voice of a fool by his multitude of words. We reveal our hearts by what we say. Out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh (Matt. 12:34).

Oh, how some people enjoy talking and love above all else to relay what others have said. Ponder the kind of talk you enjoy hearing. In this way you can get to know yourself, for the kind of talk you love to hear indicates the kind of person you are. Note, also, the sort of person who pours into your ears all the "latest information." They have "sized you up" as being the type of person who wants to hear that kind of garbage. You can evaluate yourself by taking time to note the things people come and talk to you about.

A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things: and an evil man out of the evil treasure bringeth forth evil things. . . . by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned (Matt. 12:35,37).

Thought for Today:

The mouth of a righteous man is a well of life: but violence covereth the mouth of the wicked (Prov. 10:11).
Christ Revealed:

By the teacher of wisdom (Prov. 4:7,11). Christ is the Teacher in whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge (Col. 2:3).
Word Studies:

4:12 straitened = hindered by foolish decisions; 4:13 Take fast hold of instruction = Determine to live what you have been taught; 4:24 froward mouth = misleading, dishonest statements; 5:3 strange = adulterous, sinful; 5:6 moveable = irresponsible, unstable, far from the path of life; 5:19 ravished always with her love = devoted to her love; 5:20 ravished with a strange woman = led astray by an adultress; 5:22 holden with the cords of his sins = ensnared, held fast by the desires of his sins; 6:12 naughty = worthless, wicked; 6:26 whorish woman = prostitute; 7:10 subtil = attractive but deceitful; 7:18 solace ourselves = satisfy our lust.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for English International Shortwave Broadcasts sponsored by Pat Boehme • Radio Sri Lanka Broadcasts sponsored by George and Pat Zahler • Staff: Mike Moore • Government Officials: Sen. John Barrasso (WY), Rep. Bobby Bright (AL), Rep. James Clyburn (SC), Rep. John Duncan (TN), Rep. Phil Roe (TN), Rep. John Salazar (CO), and Rep. Edolphus Towns (NY) • Country: Tonga (109,000) in the southwestern Pacific • Major languages: Tongan and English • Religious freedom • 55% Protestant; 22% Mormon; 14% Roman Catholic • Prayer Suggestion: Thank God for His mercy (Num. 12:11-14).
Optional Reading: Titus 2

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 9:37
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