Bible Pathways

[Judy Harder]

August 11
Read Isaiah 52 -- 57

Highlights In Today's Reading:

Weep over what your sins cost Jesus (52:13-15; 53:1-12)! God reigns, Jerusalem redeemed (52:1-12); Israel, the restored wife (chap. 54). Note 54:17 & 55:8-9! Obedience rewarded (chap. 56), repentance and forgiveness (57:15-21).
Here the promised Messiah-Redeemer is revealed as Immanuel (7:14), meaning God with us (Matt. 1:23). He also is described as Wonderful, Counseller, The Mighty God, The Everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace (Is. 9:6). And of the increase of His government and peace there shall be no end . . . to establish . . . judgment and . . . justice (9:7).

Now the prophet asks: Who hath believed our report? (53:1). At His coming only a few believed Jesus to be the Christ, the Son of the Living God (Matt. 16:16). When we shall see Him, there is no (physical) beauty that we should desire Him (Is. 53:2). There is nothing about Jesus to attract the world to Him, for He came from an obscure family (reared to be a carpenter) (Mark 6:3), was brought up in Nazareth (a despised city) (John 1:46; 7:52), and was born a Jew (not a Roman).

Still worse, He refused to cooperate with the popular religious views. He is despised and rejected of men (53:3). He claimed to be equal with God and He was violently pushed out of His own home synagogue, to be cast over a cliff (Luke 4:28-39). Most of the rulers and prominent religious leaders refused to believe He was their Messiah (7:48).

Many of His disciples went back, and walked no more with Him (John 6:66). Even His chosen apostles, at the most critical moment, forsook Him, and fled (Matt. 26:56). He was a Man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief (Is. 53.3).

The words sorrows and grief mean all physical pain of every kind. He did not hold Himself aloof from the suffering of mankind but identified with the helpless, sick, blind, leprous, poor, sorrowing, and those who had lost loved ones in death. At Lazarus' grave site Jesus wept (John 11:35).

We hid as it were our faces from Him (Is. 53:3), literally refusing to accept the great God of creation -- the perfect, sinless Son of God who took upon Himself all the sins of those who would come to Him and receive His forgiveness. The chastisement of our peace was upon Him (53:5) -- meaning that His chastisement ended the enmity between fallen man and the holy God.

Christ. . . . He is our peace, who . . . hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us (Jew and Gentile) . . . that He might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby (Eph. 2:13-16).

Thought for Today:

I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep; for Thou, Lord, only makest me dwell in safety (Ps. 4:.
Christ Revealed:

As the One who was rejected by His own people (Is. 53:3; compare Luke 23:18; John 1:11); remained silent when He was falsely accused (Is. 53:7; Mark 15:3-5); was buried with the rich (Is. 53:9; Matt. 27:57-60); and was crucified with sinners (Is. 53:12; Mark 15:27-28).
Word Studies:

52:1 uncircumcised = heathen (those without a covenant with God); 52:10 made bare His holy arm = revealed His power; 52:12 rereward = rear guard; 52:14 visage = appearance, countenance; 57:4 sport = ridicule; 57:17 frowardly = rebelliously.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Radio Sri Lanka Shortwave Broadcasts sponsored by Mrs. Agnes C. Hurns • Executive Director of the IBRA in our Washington DC Branch: Reverend Michael Hall • Country: Afghanistan (22.7 million) in central Asia • Major languages: Pastu and Afghan Persian (Dari) • Hostile to Christian evangelization. For a Muslim to convert to Christianity is automatic execution • 97.5% Muslim; 1.5% Parsee; .35% Hindu; .1% Traditional ethic; .1% Baha'i; .02% Christian; .02% Sikh; .01% non-Religious • Prayer Suggestion: Glorify God who is able to use national leaders to accomplish His purposes (Ezra 7:27-28).
Optional Reading: I Peter 1

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 10:28
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[Judy Harder]

August 12

Read Isaiah 58 -- 63

Highlights In Today's Reading:

Our sinful nature separates us from God (59:2-15). Solution: A Redeemer (59:16-21). The Light of the world (60:1,19-20). Jesus fulfills chapter 61 (Luke 4:16-29). The love of God, His mercy, pardon, and deliverance outlined in chapters 62 & 63.
Miraculous power is released from heaven through our fast ing and prayer while we seek the will of God. This is illustrated in Nineveh when their people fasted to avert its destruction. Esther and the Jews in captivity fasted to bring about their deliverance (Esth. 4:15-17). Our Lord gave instructions regarding the importance of fasting (Matt. 6:16-18; Luke 5:35).

The Israelites were complaining during Isaiah's time: Wherefore have we fasted . . . afflicted our soul, and Thou takest no knowledge (Is. 58:3). Why? The Lord revealed, through Isaiah, the fundamental requirements necessary for fasting that are acceptable to the Lord. First, the Israelites' fast did not result in the blessing they desired because the fast was self-centered. He pointedly said: In the day of your fast ye find pleasure, and exact all your labours when you should have repented for your sins . . . ye fast for strife and debate (58:3-4). They also fasted to impress others of a humility and godliness that they did not possess: To . . . spread sackcloth and ashes under him (58:5).

Their fasting was also futile: The yoke (oppression), the putting forth of the finger (being judgmental), and speaking vanity (self-righteousness) (58:9). If what we do for others or for the Lord imposes a yoke upon them -- expecting favors in return -- fasting will be ineffective.

A Christian is something we become -- a chosen vessel to serve the Lord. Is not this the fast that I have chosen? to loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed go free. . . . Is it not to deal (distribute) thy bread to the hungry, and that thou bring the poor that are cast out to thy house? (58:6-7).

It is the Spirit-filled life that leads us to draw out (extend) thy (our) soul to the hungry, and satisfy the afflicted soul (58:7,10). This is more than just giving bread to the hungry. It is becoming involved with sharing Christ's compassion with many who are oppressed by heathen darkness with no knowledge of the love of God. This should compel us to reevaluate our reasons for what we keep for ourselves.

Then shall thy light rise in obscurity, and thy darkness be as the noonday (58:10).

Thought for Today:

The meek will He guide in judgment; and the meek will He teach His way (Ps. 25:9).
Christ Revealed:

As the One anointed to preach Good Tidings (Is. 61:1). Jesus read this passage to the rulers of the synagogue (Luke 4:16-22) but stopped before reading the completion of the second verse (Is. 61:2), thus showing that He fulfilled the first part but, the second part, the day of judgment, was yet to be fulfilled.
Word Studies:

60:5 see, and flow together = become enlightened, and shine forth the Light of God; fear = be in awe (the amazement at what God is doing), and then when that has registered, comes the joy; 61:3 appoint = impart comfort; 62:4 Hephzibah = my delight is in her; Beulah = carried; 63:15 the sounding of thy bowels = the yearning affection of your heart.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Assistant to the Executive Director of the IBRA in our Washington DC Branch: Terry Hall • Government Official: Rep. Connie Mack IV (FL) • Country: Albania (3.1 million) in southeastern Europe • Major languages: Albanian and Greek • Newly opened to evangelism • 41.5% Christian; 39% Muslim; 18.5% non-Religious/Other; .2% Baha'i; .01% Jewish • Prayer Suggestion: Humbly kneel before the Lord with a contrite heart as you pray (Ezra 9:5-6).
Optional Reading: I Peter 2

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 10:28
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[Judy Harder]

August 13 
Read Isaiah 64 -- 66

Highlights In Today's Reading:

In these final chapters are prayers for mercy and forgiveness from a God who is silent (chap. 64). Those pleading confess their sin and praise His deeds (64:4-7). God will spare His true servants (65:1-10). The rebirth of His nation and His promise (66:7-9,22).
Northern Israel's 13-year collapse (II Kin. 15:29; 17:6) had be gun. Now, eight years after the fall, the small kingdom of Judah was being brought very low (Is. 36:1) because there is none that calleth upon Thy Name, that stirreth up himself to take hold of Thee: for Thou hast hid Thy face from us . . . because of our iniquities (64:7). The majority of the people had abandoned the Lord and had turned to the false gods of neighboring countries.

These mountains of evil from within, and the resulting mountains of opposition from without, compelled Isaiah to plead: Since the beginning of the world men have not heard, nor perceived by the ear, neither hath the eye seen, O God, beside Thee, what He hath prepared for him that waiteth for Him (64:1-4).

Like Isaiah, we too must cry out in prayer, confessing the sins of our nation -- that the mountains (of evil opposition to the Lord) might flow down at Thy presence in answer to prayer (64:1).

Only a small minority was loyal to the Lord. In Judah, the Word of God had been ignored: I have spread out My hands all the day unto a rebellious people, which walketh in a way that was not good, after their own thoughts (65:2).

It may even seem that our relationship with the Lord is hindered by what appear to be insurmountable problems -- as though they were mountains that seem to rob our lives of spiritual power. But we need not fear. The Lord would have us recognize how He, the Mighty God of the universe, will protect, provide, and guide all who discipline themselves to be that minority while continuing to pray as Isaiah did.

Every "mountain" can be overcome without exception because greater is He that is in you, than he that is in the world (I John 4:4).

Paul quoted Isaiah 64:4 to the Corinthian church: Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love Him (I Cor. 2:9).

Thought for Today:

The Lord is nigh unto all them that call upon Him, to all that call upon Him in truth (Ps. 145:18).
Christ Revealed:

As the Creator of new heavens and a new earth (Is. 65:17; 66:22; compare John 1:1-3; II Pet. 3:13). As the One whose glory will be declared among the nations (Is. 66:18-19; Rev. 5:12-13).
Word Studies:

64:3 terrible = awesome, revered greatly, greatly to be feared; 64:11 are laid waste = have been destroyed; 65:14 howl for vexation of spirit = cry out in misery; 66:6 voice = sound.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for English International Shortwave Broadcast in memory of Rev. Leonard P. Miller • Staff: Karen Hawkins • Government Officials: Rep. Lincoln Diaz-Balart (FL) and Rep. Peter Visclosky (IN) • Country: Algeria (31.5 million) in North Africa • Major languages: Arabic and French • Opposition to the Gospel is intense • 96.7% Muslim; 3% non-Religious; .29% Christian; .01% Baha'i • Prayer Suggestion: Pray and fast as you confess your sins and intercede for our nation (Neh. 1:4-6).
Optional Reading: I Peter 3

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 10:28
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[Judy Harder]

August 14 
Read Jeremiah 1 -- 3

Highlights In Today's Reading:

God knew Jeremiah long before he was born (1:4-5)! Is the Word of God in your mouth (1:9)? God reminds Judah of its blessings (2:1-7), forsaking Him (2:13), worshiping false gods (2:10-12,26-28). Israel more righteous than Judah (3:6-11); Judah warned (3:14-17); national restoration promised (3:16-18). God speaks (3:22)!
Jeremiah's message focused on the vital importance of obedience to the Word of God. Anything less would lead to idolatry which would be followed by the judgment of God. Jeremiah was commissioned to go to all that I shall send thee, and whatsoever I command thee thou shalt speak (1:7). His warning was necessary because the pastors . . . transgressed against Me . . . the prophets prophesied by Baal, and walked after things that do not profit (2:.

God then illustrated the kingdom of Judah's sins by charging: For My people have committed two evils; they have forsaken Me the Fountain of Living Waters, and hewed them out . . . broken cisterns, that can hold no water (2:13).

In the desert climate of Israel, especially Judah, water was and still is, the first necessity of existence. To exchange the beautiful and abundant Jordan River and Sea of Galilee -- types of God as pure, "the Living Water" -- for the best man-made contaminated cistern (reservoir) would be most foolish. But the Lord said the nation of Judah was even more foolish. They were the only people in the world who had received a revelation of the One True God and His Word -- the only source of the Water of Life -- yet, they had turned to man-made idols.

And later on, He said: Is not My Word like as a fire? saith the Lord; and like a hammer that breaketh the rock in pieces? Therefore, behold, I am against the prophets . . . that steal My Words (23:29-30). To steal My Words is to make one's own words or traditions seem more important. This should be of great concern to Christians today.

Unfortunately, some have replaced the one true Guide to life with a substitute written by men for "their profit." But nothing compares to what God has prepared for "our profit." All Scripture . . . is profitable (II Tim. 3:16). A reasonable question to ask ourselves is: "Do the books we read lead us to read and understand the Bible, or do they become a substitute for what God has to say?"

In the midst of opposition, Jeremiah triumphantly proclaimed: Thy words were found, and I did eat them; and Thy Word was unto me the joy and rejoicing of my heart: for I am called by Thy Name, O Lord God of hosts (Jer. 15:16).

Thought for Today:

For with Thee is the fountain of life: in Thy light shall we see light (Ps. 36:9).
Christ Revealed:

As the Fountain of Living Waters (Jer.2:13). Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto Me, and drink (John 7:37-38; also 4:1-26).
Word Studies:

2:3 offend = be held guilty; 2:14 spoiled = laid waste, plundered; 2:18 Sihor = the Nile River; the river = the Euphrates; 2:31 lords = independent; 2:33 trimmest . . . thy way to seek love = do good (as a show to impress) to get love; 3:2 been lien with = acted like a prostitute; 3:9 lightness = shameless behavior; 3:10 feignedly = deceptively.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for English International Shortwave Broadcasts sponsored by Betty J. Graves Staff: Clarence Rathbone • Government Official: Rep. Louise Slaughter (NY) • Country: Andorra (78,000) in the eastern Pyrenees between France and Spain • Major languages: Catalan and French • Official freedom of religion • 94% Christian; 5% non-Religious; .6% Muslim; .4% Other • Prayer Suggestion: Confess and forsake any known sin (Neh. 1:6).
Optional Reading: I Peter 4

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 10:28

[Judy Harder]

August 15 
Read Jeremiah 4 -- 6

Highlights In Today's Reading:

God warns Judah of impending destruction unless hearts and minds are cleansed (4:3-4). The prophet grieves (4:19-22) over visions of Judah's coming judgment (4:23-31). Not one man that seeketh the truth to save the city (5:1-9,19-25). A last warning (6:1-9). Judah's constant rebellion results in rejection (6:10-30).
The prophet Jeremiah began his public ministry in the 13th year of the reign of God-fearing King Josiah of Judah (1:2). Josiah's grandfather Manasseh had reigned 55 years (II Kin. 21:1), and his father Amon had been assassinated after just two years (21:19-23). Both were very evil kings who led the people into immoral perversions. They had popularized worship of the false deities of their neighboring pagan nations; Manasseh had even caused his children to pass through the fire (II Chr. 33:6). This opened the way for the offering of incense to the queen of heaven (Jer. 7:18; 44: 17-19,25), Babylon's fertility goddess.

Manasseh seduced them to do more evil than did the nations whom the Lord destroyed before the children of Israel (II Kin. 21:9). However, Amon's son Josiah did that which was right in the sight of the Lord (22:2). In the 18th year of his reign, Josiah initiated a restoration of worship of the True God and a Passover unequaled in Israel's history (23:22-23).

After the death of godly Josiah (23:30-32), all of his sons were evil kings and the nation reverted to their wicked ways. This made Jeremiah's ministry very difficult.

Jeremiah exposed the sinfulness of the foolish people (of Judah), and without understanding; which have eyes, and see not; which have ears, and hear not (Jer. 5:21). He then spoke of wickedness that existed in the Temple which was supposed to be the source of spiritual instruction. The prophets prophesy falsely, and the priests bear rule by their means (5:31). The Word of the Lord is unto them a reproach; they have no delight in it (6:10).

There are some today who make no effort to read through the Bible. It is apparent that they have no delight in the Lord's Word. Even as the people of Jeremiah's day, the Lord says also of them: They have not hearkened unto My words, nor to My Law, but rejected it (6:19).

Some see a parallel between the fall of Judah and today's rapid moral decline and rise of false religions. Neglecting the Word of God is a major step toward apostasy. A true Christian delights in reading the Bible. More to be desired are they (our Creator's Guide on gaining the best in life) than . . . much fine gold (Ps. 19:10)

Thought for Today:

The way of the Lord is strength to the upright (Prov. 10:29).
Christ Portrayed:

By Jeremiah, whom God commissioned to reveal His Truth (Jer. 4:2). Jesus shall one day judge all mankind with His Truth (Ps. 96:13; John 5:22). Jesus said: To this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the Truth. Every one that is of the Truth heareth My voice (John 18:37).
Word Studies:

4:6 retire, stay not = go in haste to take refuge, don't delay; 4:22 sottish = devoid of spiritual understanding; 5:10 battlements = branches; 5:13 wind = full of words, but speaking nothing from God; 5:30 wonderful = monstrous, shocking; 6:30 reprobate silver = rejected, despised, trash.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Staff: Bernice Rathbone • Government Officials: Rep. Judy Biggert (IL), Justice Stephen Breyer, Del. Eni Faleomavaega (American Samoa), and Rep. Maxine Waters (CA) • Country: Angola (11 million) in west-central Africa • Major languages: Portuguese and Bantu dialects • Christianity is gradually being driven underground by communism • 60% Roman Catholic; 20% Protestant; 5% belief in ancestor spirits, witches, and medicine men • Prayer Suggestion: The Word of God, confession, and prayer bring the believer into close communion with God (Neh. 9:2-5).
Optional Reading: I Peter 5

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 10:28

[Judy Harder]

August 16

Read Jeremiah 7 -- 10

Highlights In Today's Reading:

Judah, don't be fooled! Hear the Word of the Lord (7:2,4-5; 9:20,24) Disobedient children experience complete disaster as consequences of their sin. If the prophet of God is sorrowed (8:18-22), what do you think it does to the Heavenly Father's heart? God, forgive our disobedience and help us stay faithful to Your perfect will.
It was in the beginning of the reign of Jehoiakim the son of Josiah (26:1-2) that the Lord directed Jeremiah to stand near the court of the Lord's House where worshipers would enter from all the cities of Judah. This was during one of three major Feasts (Festivals) to which all Jewish males were required to come to Jerusalem.

On most occasions it was a joyful celebration. But this time Jeremiah pronounced a most severe and harsh accusation from the Lord: Will ye steal, murder, and commit adultery, and swear falsely, and burn incense unto Baal, and walk after other gods . . . And come and stand before Me in this House . . . and say, we are delivered to do all these abominations? (7:9-11).

Although the Israelites maintained the required worship services of God, some also compromised and worshiped Jezebel's Baal and Egypt's queen of heaven. Others built the high places of Tophet . . . to burn their sons and their daughters in the fire to Molech, the fire god (7:18,31; Lev. 18:21). The priests, prophets, and people would not tolerate condemnation by "narrow-minded" Jeremiah.

All the people took him, saying, thou shalt surely die (26:. Jeremiah warned them that Shiloh -- which had been the site of the Tabernacle for centuries -- had been totally destroyed and that, unless they repented, the Lord declared Jerusalem and the Temple would also be destroyed as I have done to Shiloh (Jer. 7:14-15).

The people believed this was blasphemy. The Temple gave them a feeling of security that God, who had directed Solomon to build it and who had chosen Jerusalem as His City, would never allow them to be destroyed.

Therefore, Jeremiah was told three times by the Lord not to pray for them (7:16; 11:14; 14:11).

Centuries later, Jesus said of the worshipers in Jerusalem: This people . . . honoureth Me with their lips; but their heart is far from Me (Matt. 15:. He also warned: Not every one that saith unto Me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the Kingdom of Heaven; but he that doeth the will of My Father which is in heaven (Matt. 7:21).

Thought for Today:

Thy way, O God, is in the sanctuary: who is so great a god as our God (Ps. 77:13).
Christ Revealed:

As the One who demanded a cleansed Temple (Jer. 7:1-11). Jesus cleansed the Temple and said: My House shall be called of all nations the House of Prayer (Mark 11:17).
Word Studies:

7:15 the whole seed of Ephraim = all the people of the Northern Kingdom; 7:33 fray = frighten; 9:7 melt them, and try them = refine them by testing with affliction; 10:22 noise of the bruit = sound of a rumor.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Bible Pathway Media Producer: Rick Hash • Government Official: Rep. Earl Blumenauer (OR) • Country: Antigua and Barbuda (64,000) in the Leeward Islands of the eastern Caribbean • Major languages: English and local dialects • Religious freedom • 83% Protestant; 11% Roman Catholic • Prayer Suggestion: Intercede for your nation and friends in prayer with fasting and a self-sacrificing spirit (Esth. 4:16).
Optional Reading: II Peter 1

Memory Verse for the Week:Matthew 10:32
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[Judy Harder]

August 17
Read Jeremiah 11 -- 14

Highlights In Today's Reading:

Judah breaks a pledge (covenant) (11:1-17). We should be men and women of integrity. Jeremiah's message was delivered but was most unwelcome. Men of Anathoth plot to kill him but the Lord is his defense (11:18-23). What is the significance of the marred belt (chap. 13)? A solemn warning (chap. 14).
The Hebrew men wore tunics -- long, loose, gown-like garments. In order to hold the tunic close to the body, when working or active, they wore a sash-like belt called a girdle. Both Elijah and John the Baptist were girt with a girdle of leather (II Kin. 1:8; Matt. 3:4; Acts 21:8-11; II Sam. 22:40; Ex. 12:11).

The girdles of linen cloth worn by the priests represented the close, holy relationship of Judah and Jerusalem to the Lord. As the girdle cleaveth to the loins of a man, so have I caused to cleave unto Me the whole House of Israel and the whole House of Judah, saith the Lord (Jer. 13:11). The Israelites were to be as holy priests -- obedient to the Lord -- so that all nations would see the need to give up their idols and worship the One True God. But the Israelites had forsaken the Lord and were no longer a witness to the world.

The Lord directed Jeremiah to purchase and then wear a linen girdle until it became very dirty and put it not in water (not wash it) (13:1). Eventually, he was told: Take the girdle that thou hast got, which is upon thy loins, and arise, go to Euphrates, and hide it there in a hole of the rock. . . . after many days . . . the girdle was . . . profitable for nothing. . . . Thus saith the Lord, After this manner will I mar . . . the great pride of Jerusalem (13:4-9). Then Jeremiah was to wear the decayed girdle back to Jerusalem to impress upon the people that, because they had become unfit servants of the Lord, they would be carried into Babylonia and "buried" there for "many days."

The nation of Judah had been so wonderfully blessed, yet its people ignored the Word of God and, consequently, worshiped idols. It was only after they were pitifully humiliated as slaves to the Babylonians that the Israelites realized the full meaning of I will mar . . . the great pride of Jerusalem (13:9).

Some today have become involved in satisfying their own self-interests. Unfortunately, too late in life they will discover that their eternal opportunities to serve the Lord no longer exist.

We have been warned: In the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient . . . unholy . . . from such turn away (II Tim. 3:1-5).

Thought for Today:

The meek shall inherit the earth; and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace (Ps. 37:11).
Christ Revealed:

As the Hope of Israel, the Saviour (Jer. 14:. Christ is the only Hope of all mankind. Looking for that blessed Hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ (Titus 2:13).
Word Studies:

11:15 wrought lewdness =one evil things; 11:23 visitation =udgment; 12:2 reins =eart; 13:22 skirts discovered . . . heels made bare =ine clothes torn off as you are driven into exile, barefoot (comp. Nah. 3:5).
Prayer Needs:

Pray for English International Shortwave Broadcasts sponsored by a Family Who Loves Jesus • Staff: Al Joslyn • Government Officials: Sen. Norm Coleman (MN) and Rep. David Price (NC) • Country: Argentina (37 million) in southern South America • Major languages: Spanish and English • Religious freedom • 87% Roman Catholic; 8% Protestant; 1.5% Muslim; 1% Jewish; 2.5% Other • Prayer Suggestion: Pray and intercede for your family (Job 1:5).
Optional Reading: II Peter 2

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 10:32
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[Judy Harder]

August 29
Read Jeremiah 51 -- 52

Highlights In Today's Reading:

Let's sum it up! Jeremiah wrote it all down, so you're able to read the condemnation God declared against Babylon (51:60) as payback for what the nation did to the people of God (51:24). Note: Babylon was in modern-day Iraq! The Temple is destroyed (52:12-13).
The empire of Babylonia surpassed anything the world has ever known and Nebuchadnezzar appeared to be invincible. The empire was enjoying absolute power over the nations of the world when Jeremiah declared that Babylon is suddenly fallen . . . it shall be desolate forever (51:8,13,37,62). At the end of the kingdom of Judah's 70-year captivity, as foretold by Jeremiah, the Babylonian Empire was defeated by the Medes and Persians and Cyrus king of Persia urged all Jews to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the House of the Lord (Ezra 1:1-3).

Most of the generation taken captive into Babylon had died, and the new generation was freed from bondage. The familiar idolatries surrounding the Israelites were no longer offensive to them, and they did not feel a sense of need or desire to rebuild the Temple.

The unwillingness of the majority of the Jews to leave their homes for the poverty of Jerusalem has a modern-day parallel. The Babylonian lifestyle illustrates the False Church, a worldwide, ecclesiastical, politically-motivated, religious, and commercial system, riding upon a scarlet coloured beast, full of names of blasphemy (Rev. 17:3-5).

The False Church relies upon the beast -- that is, the world system -- for support, safety, and prestige. This describes religious people who trust in the power, influence, and wealth of the world rather than in the Lord. John, on the Isle of Patmos, wrote: Come out of her, My people, that ye be not partakers of her sins (18:2-4).

Some professing Christians devote their time, tithes, and talents to the pleasures, and objectives of the world system despite the Lord's warning: Love not the world (I John 2:15). They can be recognized by their compromising associations, seeking their favor to avoid suffering, and living in self-indulgence instead of self-sacrifice.

The False Church and its members pride themselves on acceptance by the world. They are in striking contrast to true Christianity and its Founder who said: If any man will come after Me, let him deny himself and take up his cross, and follow Me (Matt. 16:24).

Thought for Today:

Whoso putteth his trust in the Lord shall be safe (Prov. 29:25).
Christ Revealed:

As the Creator of the universe (Jer. 51:15). All things were created by Him, and for Him (Col. 1:16).
Word Study:

51:2 fanners = strangers, destroyers; fan = scatter, disperse; 51:11 device = plan, purpose; 51:17 brutish = foolish; founder = metal caster; graven image = idol he has made; 51:25 mountain = tower; 51:31 at one end = from end to end; 51:42 The sea = the flood waters of the Euphrates; 52:31 lifted up the head of = showed favor to.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Officials: Sen. John McCain (AZ) and Rep. David Reichert (WA) • Country: Benin (6 million) in western Africa • Major languages: French and tribal languages • Some hostility toward Christians • 59% animism and voodoo; 17% Muslim; 16% Roman Catholic; 3% Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: Trust in the Lord; He is your refuge (Ps. 15:1-4).
Optional Reading: Revelation 3

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 10:33
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[Judy Harder]

August 30
Read Lamentations 1 -- 2

Highlights In Today's Reading:

Jeremiah's intense burden for Jerusalem reflects the love and sorrow God has for His wayward children (even us) (Matt. 23:37-39). God sent prophets to plead for obedience; when ignored, He sent an army to defeat them (Lam. 1)! In prosperity there are many places to turn but in adversity only one.
Jerusalem had survived numerous enemy attacks for about 400 years. But now the powerful armies of Nebuchadnezzar had surrounded the walls of Jerusalem for nearly 19 months (II Kin. 24:20 -- 25:7). Famine was bringing death. Parents were in anguish as their little ones pitifully begged for food and others were dying of starvation: When they swooned as the wounded in the streets of the city, when their soul was poured out into (they died in) their mother's bosom (Lam. 2:12). The walls of Jerusalem had physically protected the covenant people of God, His Holy Temple, and the Ark of the Covenant that contained the Ten Commandments given to Moses centuries before. Believing that, since it was the city of the Great King (Ps. 48:2), the false prophets in Jeremiah's day assured the people that Jerusalem could not fall.

But the unthinkable was taking place. All was soon to be destroyed by Nebuchadnezzar and the few remaining people would soon sit in shambles and shock. Judah's night had come like a terrifying nightmare. Her people were shocked at the horrible reality that all that they once thought precious was only rubbish.

We miss the meaning of this "tragedy of tragedies" if we fail to recognize that spiritual failings inevitably lead to the loss of spiritual liberty. The king of Babylon was merely the servant God used to repove and remove His people from idol worship.

Strangely, we often need someone to arouse us to seek the Lord. We must arise (Lam. 2:19) from spiritual indifference. There will always be popular prophets who lull listeners with false promises of the love and blessings of God with no mention of repentence and the consequences of their sins. But the true prophet is still crying out the necessity for living in unconditional surrender to the Lord.

We should thank our Lord not only for His blessings but also for the roadblocks which stop us when we are running in the wrong direction. He is looking for Jeremiahs who will pray for a national spiritual awakening. He always gives His best to those who live according to His Word.

Paul admonished: Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God (I Cor. 10:31).

Thought for Today:

The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy (Ps. 103:.
Christ Revealed:

By Jeremiah's sorrow over the destruction of Jerusalem (Lam. 1:12-22). Jesus expressed His sorrow for Jerusalem's failure to come to Him before it fell again (Matt. 23:37; Luke 13:34).
Word Studies:

1:3 between the straits = there there was no way out; 1:4 solemn feasts = appointed assemblies; 1:9 came down wonderfully = had a horrifying fall; 1:14 wreathed = joined, intertwined; 2:12 their soul was poured out into = they died in.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Country: Bhutan (2 million) in the eastern Himalayas of central Asia • Major languages: Tibetan and Nepalese dialects • Public worship, evangelism, and proselytization are illegal • 50-70% Buddhist; 24-45% Hindu; 5% Muslim; <1% Protestant/Roman Catholic • Prayer Suggestion: Trust in the Lord: where He guides, He provides (Ps. 16:1-8).
Optional Reading: Revelation 4

Memory Verse for the Week:Matthew 11:28
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[Judy Harder]

August 31 
Read Lamentations 3 -- 5

Highlights In Today's Reading:

The compassion of God never fails (3:23). By faith we seek Him (3:25-26); He always hears (3:55-57)! He's our Inheritance (3:24); Lawyer (3:58); and Judge (3:59); ever the same (5:19). In worship, discipline is needed (3:27). Why did this happen (4:13)? The anger of God is always moved by love (4:11); His unfailing love sets us free (5:21).
The amazing God who is perfect Love and perfect Wisdom must bring upon a nation perfect judgment that brings punishment upon the evildoer and blessing upon all who repent and turn to Him. Whom the Lord loveth He chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom He receiveth (Heb. 12:6). As we read His Word we recognize how suffering opens our eyes to the true values of life and dispels many a deceitful dream.

The Israelites of Judah lost absolutely everything in life that was precious to them. Then, with an ever-deepening sense of loss, they were dragged away by Nebuchadnezzar to serve as slaves to the heathen, Gentile conquerer.

Theirs was the only kingdom in which God placed His Name and His Temple. And they possessed the greatest treasure on earth -- the Word of God, the true source of all wisdom and the true answer to all our moral, physical, and spiritual needs.

The Israelites were once blessed of God with wealth and prestige above all nations. Yet, as time passed they ignored the Lord and His Word as if they deserved all their blessings. They looked for help from every other source but their Creator. Oh! how easy it is to develop a sense of self-sufficiency.

Surely, it is a great comfort for all of us during our difficult times to recall the unceasing mercies and love of God. A brighter day is mentioned at least seven times in chapter 3. This central chapter reveals the true faith of the prophet. (1) It is of the Lord's mercies that we are not consumed . . . His compassions fail not (3:22); (2) The Lord is my portion . . . therefore will I hope in Him (3:24); (3) Hope and quietly wait for the salvation of the Lord (3:26); (4) Though He cause grief, yet will He have compassion according to the multitude of His mercies (3:32); (5) I called upon Thee: Thou saidst, Fear not (3:57); (6) Thou hast pleaded the causes of my soul (3:58); (7) Thou hast redeemed my life (3:58).

Let us lift up our heart with our hands unto God in the heavens (3:41).

Thought for Today:

Be glad in the Lord, and rejoice, ye righteous; and shout for joy, all ye that are upright in heart (Ps. 32:11).
Christ Revealed:

As the merciful Savior (Lam. 3:22). Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life (Jude 1:21).
Word Studies:

3:5 builded against = besieged; 3:9 inclosed = blocked; 3:14 a derision = a laughingstock; 3:15 wormwood = bitterness; 3:29 putteth his mouth in the dust = speaks humbly; 4:10 sodden = soiled.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Radio Sri Lanka Shortwave Broadcasts sponsored by Richard W. Higginbotham • English International Radio Broadcasts sponsored by Dr. John A. Hash • Country: Bolivia (8 million) in South America • Major languages: Spanish and Quechua • Religious freedom • 92% Roman Catholic; 3% Protestant; 3% Baha'i • Prayer Suggestion: Pray to the Lord with sincere lips (Ps. 17:1).
Optional Reading: Revelation 5

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 11:28`