Bible Pathways

[Judy Harder]

, December 31, 2009 

Read Revelation 21 -- 22

Highlights In Today's Reading:

A new heaven and a new earth. . . . all things new (21:1-5). End of pain, sorrow, and death (21:4; 22:3). Do you know The Lamb? We will see His face (22:4). He and God are the Temple and the Light (21:22-23,25). Who can enter (21:27; 22:14)? The River of Life, the Tree of Life (22:1-2,14). Jesus is coming soon (22:20)!
A "little white lie never hurt anybody" is a thought sometimes expressed in today's self-centered society. But, to the Lord, lying is a very serious sin with eternal consequences. God is Truth and Jesus said the devil . . . is a liar, and the father of it (John 8:44).

Jesus also said the fearful, and unbelieving . . . and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire (Rev. 21:. Note the characteristics of the unsaved, beginning with the fearful — the coward who will not confess Christ, for fear of what others might say or do (Matt. 10:32-33; Rom. 10:9). The unbelieving may be morally good, but they are lost sinners who will be cast into the lake which burneth with fire.

For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person . . . hath any inheritance in the Kingdom of Christ and of God. . . . Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is. And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit (Eph. 5:3-5,17-18). Mortify (make dead) therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication (sexual immorality), uncleanness (immoral activities), inordinate affection (uncontrolled passions), evil concupiscence (unholy desires), and covetousness (all greed), which is idolatry: for which things' sake the wrath of God cometh on the children of disobedience (Col. 3:5-6; Heb. 13:4). As wicked as sins are, God is willing to forgive even the vilest sinner (I John 1:9). His love reaches out to every repentant sinner who turns from their sins to allow Christ to be Lord of their lives.

If you have not received Christ as personal Savior and Lord of your life, do it now. The Word of God must be your guide. You can never be good enough so confess your sins to the Heavenly Father, putting your trust in Jesus who died to save you.

We know that, when He shall appear, we shall be like Him; for we shall see Him as He is. And every man that hath this hope in Him purifieth himself, even as He is pure (I John 3:2-3).

For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost (Luke 19:10).

Thought for Today:

Let brotherly love continue. . . . Let your conversation (daily conduct) be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for He hath said, I will never leave thee nor forsake thee (Heb. 13:1,5).
Cross References:

For Rev. 21:4: See Is. 25:8. Rev. 21:23: See Is. 60:19. Rev. 21:25: See Is. 60:11. Rev. 21:27: See Is. 52:1. Rev. 22:2: See Ezek. 47:12; Gen. 2:9. Rev. 22:3: See Zech. 14:11. Rev. 22:12: See Is. 40:10. Rev. 22:13: See Is. 44:6; 48:12. Rev. 22:16: See Is. 11:1. Rev. 22:18-19: See Deut. 12:32.
Word Studies:

21:9 The bride, the Lamb's wife =the Church, the Lord Jesus' Church; 21:16 twelve thousand furlongs =2500 miles; 21:23 lighten it =illuminate it; 22:7 prophecy =foretelling, forth telling, teaching; 22:16 angel to testify =messenger to bear witness.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Dr. John A. Hash • Staff: Barbara Bivens • Government Officials: Rep. Jeff Flake (AZ), Rep. Harold Rogers (KY), and Rep. Heath Shuler (NC) • Country: Saudi Arabia (20.9 million) on the Arabian Peninsula in southwestern Asia • Major language: Arabic • Christian worship services for foreign personnel are tolerated, but those who seek to convert Muslims to Christianity face persecution • 86% Sunni (Wahabi) Muslim; 10% Shi'ite Muslim; 1% Ismaili Muslim; 3% Others (including 600,000 Christians and some Hindus and Buddhists) • Prayer Suggestion: Pray and rejoice in the Lord for all His spiritual blessings (Is. 61:10).
Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 28:20

[Judy Harder]

Read Genesis 1 -- 3

Highlights In Today's Reading:

You will be thrilled as you read these three inspiring chapters today, discovering: God said. . . . God saw. . . . God made, describing creation. Read what God did in six days (chap. 1). Seventh day blessed and sanctified (2:1-3)? A help meet. Adam and Eve chose to believe Satan and forfeit the Garden of Eden. Sin, punishment.
Verses for Today:

And the Lord God commanded the man, saying, Of every tree of the garden thou mayest freely eat: But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die. . . . And the serpent said unto the woman (Eve), Ye shall not surely die (Gen. 2:16-17; 3:4).
Creation, as recorded in Genesis, is the testimony of the Creator, who created man in His own image (1:27). Man was made distinctly different from animals in that God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul (2:7).
God created Adam and Eve to enjoy fellowship with Him. But He gave them the right to choose either to be their own "god" — that is, to do what they wanted to do — or, by simple faith, to obey God and His Word. By choosing the tree of knowledge (2:9,17), they decided to "think for themselves." They foolishly relied upon their own human reasoning instead of depending on God.

Just as Adam's and Eve's fellowship with God was dependent upon their obedience, our fellowship with Him is also dependent upon our obedience to His Word. We must choose the way of God if we are to know the will of God and gain the best in our brief stay on earth. We can learn of His ways through reading the Bible, which leads to a knowledge of Christ — the Source of all life: For by Him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth . . . all things were created by Him, and for Him (Col. 1:16). This is a vital point that distinguishes worshippers of the only True God from all non-Christian religions/cults. Jesus said: I am The Way, The Truth, and The Life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by Me (John 14:6).

All who accept Christ as their personal Savior and Lord of their lives receive spiritual life — the nature of God. Then the indwelling Holy Spirit can guide them into all truth as they read the Bible — the Source of all eternal Truth. (See John 1:12-13; 16:13.)

Thought for Today:

Desire the sincere milk of the Word, that ye may grow thereby (I Pet. 2:2).
Christ Revealed:

As Creator (Gen. 1:1; compare John 1:1-4,14; Col. 1:13-17; Heb. 11:3). As the Seed (Descendant) of the woman (Gen. 3:15; Is. 7:14; 9:6-7). God sent forth His Son, made of a woman (Gal. 4:4).
Word Studies:

1:2 face =surface; 1:6 firmament =the open expanse of the heavens; 1:29 meat =food; 2:3 sanctified =made holy for God to use; 2:10 heads =rivers; 2:11 compasseth =surrounds; 2:14 Hiddekel =the Tigris; 2:15 dress =take care of; 2:24 cleave =be joined; 3:1 subtile =cunning; 3:13 beguiled =deceived; 3:17 hearkened =yielded to suggestion to disobey God; sorrow =toil, labor; 3:24 keep =guard.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for our Military worldwide • International Broadcasts sponsored by Mary Hoffmeyer • Staff: Barbara Jean Loyd (retired) • Government Officials: Sen. Michael Bennet (CO), Gov. Jon Corzine (NJ), Sen. Robert Menendez (NJ), and Rep. John Sullivan (OK) • Country: Senegal (10 million) in western Africa • Major language: French • Religious freedom • 92% Muslim; 4% animism and ancestor worship; 3% Roman Catholic; ..1% Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: Pray persistently (Is. 62:6).
Optional Reading: Matthew 1

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: Psalms 23:1-2

[Judy Harder]

January 2, 2010   

Read Genesis 4 -- 6

Highlights In Today's Reading:

The Lord contrasts the worldly sacrifice of Cain with the godly sacrifice of Abel. About 1600 years later, universal corruption brings about the third great event of history — the flood in Noah's day. Worship of God revived (4:25-26).
Verse for Today:

And Adam lived a hundred and thirty years, and begat a son in his own likeness, after his image; and called his name Seth (Gen. 5:3).
Before Adam was created, God said: Let Us make man in Our image, after Our likeness (1:26). But in referring to Seth, the Bible says: Adam . . . begat a son in his own likeness, after his image (5:3).
When Adam sinned, he died spiritually. It was by one man (Adam) sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men (Rom. 5:12).

Sin destroyed Adam's moral and spiritual nature. Consequently, Adam's children inherited his sinful nature, and death passed to the whole human race. The chief characteristic of death is separation from life.

Physical death is a separation of the soul and spirit from the body. When Adam sinned, a far greater separation took place, for his soul and spirit were separated from God, resulting in spiritual death.

As many as received Him, to them 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 (John 1:12-13). This is why Jesus said: Ye must be born again (3:3,5).

And so it is written, The first man Adam was made (became) a living soul; the last Adam (Christ) was made a quickening spirit. . . . And as we have borne the image of the earthy, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly. . . . Thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord (I Cor. 15:45,49,57-58).

But God, in mercy and great love, provided a way for lost mankind to be reconciled — through the precious blood of His sinless Son, Christ Jesus.

Thought for Today:

Every Word of God is pure: He is a shield unto them that put their trust in Him. Add thou not unto His Words, lest He reprove thee, and thou be found a liar (Prov. 30:5-6).
Christ Revealed:

Through Abel's blood sacrifice (Gen. 4:4-7). Christ is the Lamb of God (John 1:29; see Heb. 9:22; 11:4). Man's best achievements can never take the place of Christ's death on the cross, which cleanseth us from all sin (I John 1:7).
Word Studies:

4:1 knew =had intercourse with; 4:4 had respect unto =approved; 4:6 fallen =angry, resentful; 4:15 a mark = sign of protection; 4:18 begat =gathered; 4:22 artificer =metal craftsman; 4:23 to my wounding =for wounding me; 5:22 walked with =believed in and was obedient to; 6:2 sons of God =followers of God; daughters of men =worldly women; 6:6 repented =grieved; 6:8 grace =the Lord's favor; 6:9 perfect =blameless; 6:15 cubits =about 18 inches; 6:16 to =for; 6:18 My Covenant =binding agreement with qualifications given by God.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in memory of Letha Hash • Government Official: Rep. Robert Wexler (FL) • Country: Serbia and Montenegro (11 million) on the Balkan Peninsula in southeastern Europe • Major language: Serbo-Croatian • Religious conflict • 41% Serbian/Montenegrin/Macedonian Orthodox; 33% Catholic; 11% Muslim; 1% Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: Remember that God hears and answers our prayers (Is. 65:24).
Optional Reading: Matthew 2

Memory Verse for the Week: Psalms 23:1-2

 

[Judy Harder]

Sunday, January 3, 2010 

Read Genesis 7 -- 9

Highlights In Today's Reading:

Noah enters the ark. The great flood. "All wiped out" but eight that lived in Noah's days (7:23)! Noah's assignment (9:1,7; see 1:28). The rainbow, the sign of the Covenant of God (9:11-17). Noah's prophecy concerning his three sons.
Verse for Today:

Noah only remained alive, and they that were with him in the Ark ( Gen. 7:23).
Wickedness had so engulfed the earth and evil had become so universal that all mankind was in danger of being destroyed. About 120 years before the great flood, God, in loving-kindness, used Noah to warn the people of their impending doom.
Noah was the only righteous man who remained: Noah found grace in the eyes of the Lord. . . . and Noah walked (lived in fellowship) with God. . . . and the earth was filled with violence. And God looked upon the earth, and, behold, it was corrupt; for all flesh had corrupted his way upon the earth (6:8-9,11-12). And the Lord said unto Noah, Come thou and all thy house into the ark; for thee have I seen righteous before Me in this generation. . . . And Noah did according unto all that the Lord commanded him (7:1,5).

God instructed Noah, a preacher of righteousness (II Pet. 2:5), to prepare a large ark to preserve human and animal life during the flood that would cover the earth.

The flood was necessary because all mankind had become so sinful there was no hope that any other person would repent. Everyone in the world had consistently rejected the Word of God.

Sin is more than an act; it is also an attitude of unbelief which eventually produces indifference and disobedience to the Word of God. Many have chosen to disregard any responsibility to a God they want to believe does not exist. Sin then becomes a lifestyle just as it has among many today when each person decides what his code of conduct will be.

It is never the will of God that anyone perish (3:9), but He will not force anyone to repent. He wants us to willingly turn from sin to Him and, by faith, believe His Word.

As for God, His way is perfect: the Word of the Lord is tried: He is a buckler (protector) to all those that trust in Him (Ps. 18:30).

Faith in God is more than knowledge of facts; it is an attitude of trust, yielding to the authority of God.

Thought for Today:

Without faith it is impossible to please Him (God): for he that cometh to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him (Heb. 11:6).
Christ Revealed:

Through the Ark (Gen. 7:1,7; Acts 4:12; I Pet. 3:12, 20). Christ is our Ark of safety. Jesus . . . delivered us from the wrath to come (I Thess. 1:10).
Word Studies:

8:1 asswaged =subsided; 8:3 abated =decreased; 8:21 sweet savour =symbolic of satisfaction; 9:9 Covenant =binding agreement with qualifications given by God; 9:13 bow =rainbow; 9:20 husbandman =farmer.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in honor of Dr. John A. Hash • Country: Seychelles (79,000) a group of islands in the Indian Ocean between Madagascar and India • Major languages: English and French • Religious freedom • 89% Roman Catholic; 8% Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: Humble yourself and reverence the Word of God; He will look upon you with affection (Is. 66:2).
Optional Reading: Matthew 3

Memory Verse for the Week: Psalms 23:3

[Judy Harder]

Read Genesis 10 -- 12

Highlights In Today's Reading:

What a time to be alive. Note industrial lineage from Ham; intellectuals from Japheth; spiritual through Shem, from which came the Savior. Seeking personal fame, the descendants make 'monumental' error (11:4). In contrast, God introduces the Hebrew race beginning with Abram.
Verses for Today:

Now the Lord had said unto Abram, Get thee out of thy country . . . unto a land that I will shew thee: And I will make of thee a great nation, and I will bless thee, and make thy name great. . . . And Abram passed through the land . . . unto the plain of Moreh. And the Canaanite was then in the land. . . . and Abram went down into Egypt to sojourn there; for the famine was grievous in the land (Gen. 12:1-2,6,10).
Abram had many lessons to learn as he journeyed by faith to the land of promise. God had promised Abram that He would make of him a great nation, and I will bless thee, and make thy name great (12:2).
You can imagine how surprised Abram was when he arrived in the plain of Moreh, a place near Shechem (12:6) only 30 miles north of Jerusalem, where he faced the Canaanites who controlled the land. As an additional test of faith, there was a famine in the land (12:10).

Without praying for direction from the Lord, Abram left the land of promise and went "down" into Egypt for food. Like we often do, he looked to the natural resources rather than the supernatural source.

As a result of going "down" to Egypt, he encountered and yielded to a further temptation. To hide the full truth about his wife, he said she was his sister, thus leaving her vulnerable to other men (12:11-15). Later, in a much greater test of Abram's faith, God revealed Himself as Jehovah-jireh — the God who will provide (22:14).

The patience of God with Abram should help each of us see that He truly love us and is merciful, as well as sufficient to meet every need and keep every promise. How prone we are to look to our own resources rather than trust the Lord! But, we need not turn to questionable practices in order to provide for ourselves.

The call that came to Abram comes to each of us. Every incident that Abram experienced is similar to what all of us face during our lifetimes. Each of us needs complete confidence in and obedience to the Word of God. It is essential to prepare us for greater blessings.

Thought for Today:

Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the Word of truth (II Tim. 2:15).
Christ Revealed:

As the Promised Seed of Abram (Gen. 12:3,7; comp. Matt. 1:1; Acts 3:25-26; Gal. 3:16). Abram was a type of Christ who leads the way to a far better promised land (John 14:2-4,6; Heb. 11:8-10).
Word Studies:

10:5 isles of the Gentiles divided in their lands =they became separate nations; isles was a term used by the Hebrews to designate all countries accessible to them by sea, including those of Europe; after his tongue =according to their language; 11:3 Go to =come; slime =probably pitch and tar; 11:4 upon =over; make us a name =become a great people; glorify ourselves rather than God; lest we be =instead of our being; 11:9 confound =confuse; 12:5 substance =possessions; 12:7 seed =descendants, offspring; 12:10 sojourn =live temporarily; grievous =severe.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Vincent & Rebecca Naughton • Staff: Dr. John A. Hash • Country: Country: Sierra Leone (5 million) in western Africa • Major language: English • Increasing restrictions on Christian work in some areas • 50% belief in river spirits, medicine men, and witchcraft; 39% Muslim; 7% Protestant; 2% Roman Catholic • Prayer Suggestion: Seek God in prayer with your whole heart and He will hear you (Jer. 29:12-13).
Optional Reading: Matthew 4

Memory Verse for the Week: Psalms 23:3
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[Judy Harder]

January 5, 2010   

Read Genesis 13 -- 15

Highlights In Today's Reading:

Don't miss the life-changing message in today's reading. Lot chooses to be greedy (13:10-12). See the blessings increase as Abram allows Lot to take advantage of him rather than fight for his rights. Abram's act of faith reaffirmed (13:14-17); Abram and Lot separate; Abram moves to Hebron; Abram rescues Lot; Melchizedek blesses Abram; the Covenant of God with Abram.
Verses for Today:

And they took Lot, Abram's brother's son, who dwelt in Sodom, and his goods, and departed. And there came one that had escaped, and told Abram (Gen. 14:12-13).
When the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah were attacked and defeated, Lot was taken prisoner in the first war mentioned in the Scriptures. When Abram heard that his brother (Lot) was taken captive, he armed his trained servants . . . and pursued them. . . . And He brought back all the goods, and also brought again his brother Lot, and his goods, and the women also, and the people (14:14-16).
Abram's actions proved that he held no bitterness toward Lot for having chosen all of the best land — nor was he concerned about his own safety. He was willing to risk his life to keep Lot from being a slave.

God often gives us an opportunity to fulfill a need in another person's life — perhaps someone we don't feel deserves our help. But, as Abram did, we are to help that person. Jesus said: I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you; That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven (Matt. 5:44-45). In Christian love, a Christian should welcome every opportunity to help others.

In contrast, we may be forced to endure suffering under the control of a situation where we may be as powerless as the baby Moses in a homemade ark floating in the Nile River. It could be that death has left us without a parent or spouse. Some may feel defeated following a divorce. Others may have received a dignosis of terminal illness from a doctor. Throughout life, all of us will face unforeseen and unavoidable sorrow

God . . . will not suffer (permit) you to be temptated above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape (I Cor. 10:13). Through trials and sufferings, the Lord develops our faith.

Thought for Today:

Blessed are the undefiled in the way, who walk in the Law of the Lord (Ps. 119:1).
Christ Portrayed:

By the high priest, Melchizedek, who brought forth bread and wine (Gen. 14:18-20; Heb. 4:15-16; 5:5-10; 7:1-4). Today Christ is our High Priest who is interceding in prayer for us and He alone is deserving of our gifts and service to Him. Jesus took bread . . . and . . . the cup, and . . . gave it (Matt. 26:26-27).
Word Studies:

13:6 bear =support; 14:5 smote =subdued; 14:18 Salem =Jerusalem; 14:20 tithes =gifts of the first 10% of all material or financial increase; 14:22 I have lift up mine hand unto the LORD =Abraham made an oath (promise) to God; 15:3 seed =descendants; 15:4 thine own bowels =your own body; 15:5 tell =count; 15:13 stranger =temporary resident; 15:14 great substance =wealth; 15:15 go to thy fathers =die; 15:16 iniquity =sin; full =complete.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Donna Bell • Bible Pathway Media Producer: Rick Hash • Government Officials: Rep. Carolyn McCarthy (NY) and Gov. Edward Rendell (PA) • Country: Singapore (4 million) in Southeast Asia • Major languages: Chinese and Malay • Religious freedom • 54% Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, Chinese Traditional Religion; 15% Muslim; 9% Protestant; 4% Catholic; 3% Hindu; .5% Sikh; .2% Baha'i; 14.3% None/Other • Prayer Suggestion: Know that the Lord is loving and merciful to His children (Jer. 31:9).
Optional Reading: Matthew 5

Memory Verse for the Week: Psalms 23:3

[Judy Harder]

Read Genesis 16 -- 18

Highlights In Today's Reading:

What dynamic chapters of Scripture! Birth of Ishmael. Abram's name changed to Abraham. Circumcision seals Covenant (17:9-14,23-27). God promises Abraham a son at the age of 99: Sarah thy wife shall have a son (18:10). Who laughed? Why (18:1-15)? A crisis conversation with the Creator. Abraham takes his heavy heart straight to God (18:16-33).
Verses for Today:

And when Abram was ninety years old and nine, the Lord appeared to Abram, and said unto him, I am the Almighty God; walk before Me, and be thou perfect. And I will make My Covenant between Me and thee, and will multiply thee exceedingly (Gen. 17:1-2).
When Abram was 99 years old, he was greatly perplexed. For 24 long years (12:4,7; 17:1), he had waited for the birth of the son God had promised to multiply thee (him) exceedingly. Since he was very old and he still did not have "the promised son," he probably wondered: "How can the Lord fill the earth with those who are to call me Father Abraham?" But nothing is impossible with our All-Wise, Almighty, and Loving Heavenly Father. The key to faith lies in accepting His Word with the unconditional confidence that He can, and will, bring to pass His promises in His time. God assured Abraham: Sarah thy wife shall bear thee a son indeed; and thou shalt call his name Isaac: and I will establish My Covenant with him for an everlasting Covenant, and with his seed after him (17:19).
Faith is often tested by delays and difficulties. When we fully recognize God as the Almighty God (17:1) who is able and faithful to keep every promise in His Word, we will trust Him to sustain us through all our difficulties to provide protection for us in every danger, to comfort us in all our troubles, to answer our prayers, and to supply our every need. How often in life our questions far outnumber our answers: "Why have I been diagnosed with cancer? Why did my husband divorce me? Why did my child become a drug addict? Why was my child born with handicaps? Why did I lose my job? Why me?" God didn't answer the questions Abraham may have had, and seldom does He answer our questions in the way we expect.

There are three (or more) reasons why Christians suffer: [1] That we may share in the sufferings of Christ (I Pet. 3:14); [1] to make our lives more fruitful (John 15:2); [1] to cleanse us from worldy ways that we may be partakers of His holiness (Heb. 3:10).

Thought for Today:

Despise not the chastening of the Lord; neither be weary of His correction: For whom the Lord loveth He correcteth; even as a father the son in whom he delighteth (Prov. 3:11-12).
Christ Revealed:

As the Seed of Isaac, Jesus. . . . Which was the son of Jacob, which was the Son of Isaac (Gen. 17:19; Luke 3:23-34; Heb. 11:18).
Word Studies:

16:6 hardly =harshly; 16:7 fountain =spring; 16:14 Beerlahairoi =well of the Living One who sees me; 16:16 fourscore =4 x 20 =80; 17:1 be thou perfect =live to please the Lord; 17:10 be circumcised = physical sign of accepting the Covenant of God; 17:20 beget =be father of; 18:7 dress =prepare; 18:12 am waxed =have become; 18:20 very grievous =severe; 18:24 Peradventure =if by chance; 18:33 left communing =finished speaking.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Iva Jo Swinsburg • Staff: Al Joslyn • Government Official: Rep. Frank Lucas (OK) • Country: Slovakia (5 million) central Europe • Major languages: Slovak and Hungarian • Religious freedom • 60% Roman Catholic; 8% Protestant; 4% Orthodox • Prayer Suggestion: Express your gratitude for the loving-kindness of God (Jer. 32:17-18).
Optional Reading: Matthew 6

Memory Verse for the Week: Psalms 23:3
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[Judy Harder]

Thursday, January 7, 2010  Email    Facebook Twitter    Print 

Read Genesis 19 -- 21

Highlights In Today's Reading:

The cities of Sodom and Gomorrah and their inhabitants destroyed by fire; Lot and his daughters escape; Abraham's lie to Abimelech; birth of Isaac; Hagar and Ishmael sent away; the agreement between Abraham and Abimelech.
Verse for Today:

It came to pass, when God destroyed the cities of the plain, that God remembered Abraham, and sent Lot out of the midst of the overthrow (Gen. 19:29).
As long as Lot followed Abraham, God wonderfully prospered him. But, Lot had lots of trouble after leaving his spiritual counselor Abraham. When he left Abraham, he pitched his tent toward Sodom (13:12), whose people were wicked and sinners before the Lord exceedingly (13:13). But, by the time he was forced to leave Sodom, his testimony had deteriorated to the point that he seemed as one that mocked unto his sons in law when he urged them to leave with him (19:14). God delivered just Lot (who was) vexed with the filthy conversation (lifestyle) of the wicked . . . vexed his righteous soul from day to day with their unlawful deeds;) (II Pet. 2:7-8).
It appears that when Lot chose to selfishly take all the best land and leave the worst for his uncle Abraham, it may have led to Sodom and his ruin. He lost everything but his two daughters when the angels warned Lot to escape to the mountain, lest thou be consumed (Gen. 19:17).

Lot . . . dwelt in the mountain, and his two daughters (19:30) thought it necessary to intoxicate him in order to seduce him into immorality (19:32). It is always deceptive to sin to accomplish what we think is necessary to bring about good. Nothing good is recorded about Lot for the remaining years of his life.

Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting (Gal. 6:7-8).

Some Christians make selfish decisions that ignore the best interest of others. Before making decisions, it is wise to remember that every one of us shall give an account of himself to God (Rom. 14:12). Let us carefully read all the Word of God so our decisions will be made in accordance with His will. Choosing what appeals to selfish appetites disqualifies some Christians from the best blessings God has for their lives.

Thought for Today:

Our prayer needs to be: Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil (Matt. 6:13).
Christ Portrayed:

By Isaac, the promised son of the Covenant of God (Gen. 21:12). As a true son of faith, he submitted to Abraham, without hesitation, to being sacrificed, as did Christ to His Father. Christ the Only-begotten Son set us free from the Law by imparting to us, through the "born again" experience, a true desire to keep the Word of God through Christ who dwells within the true believer (Matt. 26:28; Mark 14:24; Luke 22:20; I Cor. 11:25; also Heb. 8:6; 12:24).
Word Studies:

19:1 at even =in the evening; 19:2 tarry =stay; 19:3 pressed upon =urged; unleavened bread =bread without yeast; 19:4 compassed =surrounded; 19:5 know =have homosexual relations with; 19:8 as is good in your eyes =as you wish; shadow =protection; 19:9 sojourn =live temporarily; will needs be a judge =keeps acting as our ruler; 19:11 smote =defeated; 19:13 is waxen =has grown; 19:14 mocked =joked; 19:15 consumed =destroyed; 19:16 without =outside; 19:21 accepted thee =shown favor to you; 19:22 be come thither =arrive there; 19:25 overthrew =devastated; 20:6 suffered =permitted; 20:8 sore =exceedingly; 20:16 he is to thee a covering of the eyes =it is compensation for what I did; 21:3 Isaac =he laughs; 21:9 mocking =ridiculing; 21:11 grievous =distressing; 21:12 hearken unto her voice =agree to all that she asks; 21:15 spent =used up; 21:16 over against =in front of; 21:25 reproved =complained/rebuked; 21:26 wot =now; 21:27 covenant =agreement.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Danny Gossett • Staff: Rita Guerra • Government Officials: Rep. Loretta Sanchez (CA) and Sen. John Thune (SD) • Country: Slovenia (2 million) in southeastern Europe • Major languages: Slovenian and Serbo-Croatian • Freedom of religion • 81% Roman Catholic; 1% Muslim • Prayer Suggestion: Call unto the Lord and He will give you strength to overcome (Jer. 33:3).
Optional Reading: Matthew 7

Memory Verse for the Week: Psalms 23:3

[Judy Harder]

Read Genesis 22 -- 24

Highlights In Today's Reading:

Miraculous intervention is seen throughout today's reading because of obedience to God. Abraham faces the greatest test of his life; how would we respond (22:2)? Trust Him: God will provide. . . . Jehovah-jireh (22:8,13-14). God picks the perfect wife in answer to prayer (24:48).
Verses for Today:

And Abraham stretched forth his hand, and took the knife to slay his son. And the angel of the Lord called unto him out of heaven. . . . Lay not thine hand upon the lad . . . for now I know that thou fearest God, seeing thou hast not withheld thy son, thine only son from Me (Gen. 22:10-12).
On at least three occasions, God told Abraham to give up something that was very precious to him. First, he must separate himself from his native land and other securities (12:1).
Then the day came when God made it clear to Abraham that Ishmael was not the son who would fulfill the Covenant promise of God. Note the compassion in Abraham's plea to God: O that Ishmael might live before Thee! (17:16-19). But Abraham had to send Ishmael away, for Isaac was the child of promise.

The greatest test came years later when Isaac was a young man. God told Abraham: Take now thy son, thine only son Isaac, whom thou lovest . . . and offer him . . . for a burnt offering upon one of the mountains which I will tell thee of (22:2).

In obedience to God, Abraham had Isaac carry the wood for the sacrifice (22:6), and the two of them went up the mountain together. There was no delay or opposition from either Isaac or Abraham because of their natural affection. Instead, each yielded to the will of God, and faith triumphed over human reasoning. God preserved Isaac's life and also supernaturally provided a sacrificial ram (22:8,13-14).

In this experience, Abraham was a type of God the Father, that spared not His own Son (Rom. 8:32); and Isaac was a type of Christ, who said: I come . . . to do Thy will (Heb. 10:7).

By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went (Heb. 11:.

The life of a believer is a series of tests. In our school of life, we never graduate. God desires that we face these tests, that we may express our desire to be obedient to Him above all else that we may treasure.

Thought for Today:

Lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and he shall direct thy paths (Prov. 3:5-6).
Christ Revealed:

Isaac's submission to his father and his willingness to be offered (Gen. 22:7-10) illustrate Jesus, who submitted to His father and willingly offered His life as a sacrifice for our sins. I lay down (give up) My life. . . . No man taketh it from Me, but I lay it down of Myself (John 10:11-18).
Word Studies:

22:3 clave =split; 22:12 fearest =gave reverential, heartfelt submission to; 22:14 Jehovah-jireh =the Lord will provide; 22:17 seed =descendants; gate =place of authority and entrance to the city; 22:24 concubine =secondary wife without inheritance rights; 23:6 sepulchres =places of burial, graves, tombs; 24:5 peradventure =what if; 24:8 oath =sworn promise; 24:12 send me good speed =grant me success; 24:14 damsel =virgin maiden; 24:16 fair =beautiful; known =had sexual relations with; 24:21 held his peace =observed her but kept quiet; to wit =so as to know; prosperous =successful; 24:25 provender =food; 24:27 left destitute =forsaken; 24:32 ungirded =unloaded; 24:33 meat =food; 24:53 raiment =clothing; 24:57 inquire at her mouth =let her make the decision; 24:60 possess the gate of =be victorious over; 24:62 well Lahairoi =well of the Living One who sees me (see 16:14): 24:64 lighted off =dismounted from.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcast sponsored by Wolena Smink • Staff: Beth Carlton • Country: Solomon Islands (455,000) in the southwestern Pacific • Major languages: 120 indigenous languages • Religious freedom • 66% Protestant; 17% Roman Catholic; 4% spirit worship, ancestor worship, and sorcery • Prayer Suggestion: Pour out your heart in prayer to the Lord for your children (Lam. 2:19).
Optional Reading: Matthew 8

Memory Verse for the Week: Psalms 23:3

[Judy Harder]

January 9, 2010   

Read Genesis 25 -- 27

Highlights In Today's Reading:

As the great patriarch Abraham dies, we meet Isaac's family — his wife Rebekah and their twin sons, Jacob and Esau. God reveals plan for: (1) His people; (2) and salvation (25:23). Esau despised his birthright (25:32-33). God sends "Living Water" to resolve conflicts (26:32-33). God said: I loved Jacob. And I hated Esau (Mal. 1:2-3).
Verses for Today:

Isaac digged again the wells of water, which they had digged in the days of Abraham his father; for the Philistines had stopped them after the death of Abraham. . . . And the herdmen of Gerar did strive with Isaac's herdmen, saying, The water is ours. . . . they digged another well, and strove for that also (Gen. 26:18-21).
When Isaac's servants digged in the valley, Scripture says that they found there a well of springing water (26:19). The meaning would be translated into modern English as "running water." But it is interesting that the Hebrew word translated springing literally means "living." About two millenia later, Jesus sat on a well that had belonged to Isaac's son Jacob (John 4:6). It was there that Jesus promised a Samaritan woman (a descendant of Isaac and Jacob) living water (4:10).
Again and again, as Isaac's servants reopened the wells of Abraham, the Philistines took possession of them.

The opposition of the Philistines in attempting to keep Isaac from obtaining water which rightfully belonged to him is symbolic of Satan's efforts to divert our attention from reading this message from Christ who said: If any man thirst, let him come unto Me, and drink. He that believeth on Me . . . out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water (7:37-38). The Bible and Christ are inseparable. In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God (1:1).

Satan seeks to keep every Christian from seeing the importance of the Holy Spirit in making the Word of God a reality — a transforming power within his life. The Word of God is quick (living), 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).

Just as water makes it possible for plants to maintain life and growth, so the Holy Spirit, working through the Word of God, makes it possible for Christians to have an abundant life and spiritual growth. Everything we do that is contrary to the Will of God robs us of lasting satisfaction and treasures in heaven.

Thought for Today:

O give thanks unto the Lord, for He is good: for His mercy endureth for ever (Ps. 107:1).
Christ Revealed:

As the spiritual Seed that would bless all the nations of the earth (Gen. 26:4). Now to Abraham and his Seed were the promises made. . . . not . . . as of many; but as of one . . . which is Christ (Gal. 3:16).
Word Studies:

25:6 concubines =secondary wives without inheritance rights; 25:8 gave up the ghost =died; 25:16 castles =settlements; 25:21 intreated =prayed earnestly; was intreated of him =granted his prayer; 25:23 two nations =the Israelites and the Edomites (36:9); 25:29 sod =cooked, boiled; 26:3 Sojourn =live temporarily; 26:8 sporting with =showing loving affection to; 26:9 of a surety =clearly; 26:10 lightly =ignorantly, have lien =have had sexual relations; 26:11 charged =warned, commanded, ordered; 26:13 waxed =became; 26:14 store =household; 26:19 springing water =running water, literally "living water." Jesus promiseed living water (John 4:10); 26:31 betimes =early; 27:15 goodly raiment =choice clothes; 27:28 fatness =best; 27:37 corn =grain.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in honor of Joyce & Bruce Rutherford's 45th Anniversary • Bible Pathway Printer: Rose Printing Staff, Nashville TN • Government Official: Rep. Michael Capuano (MA) • Country: Somalia (7 million) on the Horn of Africa • Major languages: Somali and Arabic • Islam is officially favored and all other religions are opposed • 99.8% Muslim; .1% Christian • Prayer Suggestion: Praise the Lord for His faithfulness and mercy (Lam. 3:22-23).
Optional Reading: Matthew 9

Memory Verse for the Week: Psalms 23:3