Bible Pathways

[Judy Harder]

Read I Kings 1 -- 2:25

Highlights:

King David at death's door. Adonijah, Absalom's kid brother, organizes another revolt! But nothing thwarts the sovereign purpose of God. Look who stops the coup (I Kin. 1:11-53). David charges Solomon to walk with God (2:1-4).
Verse for Today:

Keep the charge of the Lord thy God, to walk in His ways, to keep His Statutes, and His Commandments, and His Judgments, and His Testimonies, as it is written in the Law of Moses, that thou mayest prosper (accomplish the purpose of God) in all that thou doest, and whithersoever thou turnest thyself (I Kin. 2:3).
David's last words to Solomon revealed his greatest desire for his son. He stressed the importance of keeping the Commandments of God so that he would live to please God.

Material blessings are incidental and may or may not be obtained by those who prosper in the eyes of God. Stephen and Paul did not "prosper" in the eyes of the world, but their true prosperity cannot be measured.

So shall My Word be that goeth forth out of My mouth: it shall not return unto Me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it (Is. 55:11). Thus, true prosperity is in what we do to fulfill His Word.

David . . . charged Solomon . . . be thou strong . . . and shew thyself a man (I Kin. 2:1-2). We cannot keep the charge of the Lord (2:3) unless we read and understand the charge of the Lord. David did not ask that Solomon show himself a man by conquering more kingdoms, but by personally seeking the Lord's will through His Word and living it.

David did not use vain repetitions when he spoke of the Lord's Statutes, and His Commandments, and His Judgments, and His Testimonies (2:3), for the whole Law, not just the portion that may seem pleasing to one's interests, is to be observed.

We are all tempted to "partial obedience" — which means neglecting some in disobedience.

How irresponsible it is to own a Bible and yet disregard our obedience as if it were not worth spending time to know the Creator's plan for our lives. We possess the only Revelation of the One True God, the Creator of all things.

Then let us be strong to read it for its own supreme value to know the One True God who provided it. What a privilege we have to know our Creator and be in fellowship with Him.

Thought for Today:

He that hath My Commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth Me: and he that loveth Me shall be loved of My Father, and I will love him, and will manifest Myself to him (John 14:21).
Christ Revealed:

By the oil used to anoint Solomon (I Kin. 1:39). Oil, symbolic of the Holy Spirit, was poured out upon those chosen for special service. Jesus is the Anointed One of God: God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good (Acts 10:38). The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He hath anointed Me to preach the Gospel to the poor (needy) (Luke 4:18; see Is. 61:1).
Word Studies:

1:2 cherish =be of service as his nurse; 1:6 not displeased =never rebuked or corrected; 2:6 hoar head . . . peace =die of old age in peace; 2:17 say thee nay =refuse your request.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Raymond Cockerham • Country: Gambia (1 million) in West Africa • Major languages: English and Mandinka • Religious freedom • 87% Muslim; 10% animism and ancestral spirit worship; 2% Roman Catholic; .7% Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: Ask the Lord to give you contentment in your circumstances, whether in plenty or in want (Phil. 4:11-12).
Optional Reading: Acts 22

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 6:12

[Judy Harder]

Read I Kings 2:26 -- 4

Highlights:

The prophecy against Eli is fulfilled (I Kin. 2:26-27). Abiathar banished from the priesthood. Solomon carries out David's instructions concerning Joab and Shimei (2:28-46; see 2:5-9). Solomon's marriage to Pharaoh's daughter; Solomon's dream. His kingdom is established (2:12,46).
Verses for Today:

Solomon made affinity (alliance by marriage) with Pharaoh king of Egypt, and took Pharaoh's daughter. . . . (he) loved the Lord, walking in the statutes of David his father: only he sacrificed and burnt incense in high places (I Kin. 3:1,3).
At the beginning of his reign, Solomon loved the Lord.But early in his reign Solomon compromised his responsibility to to walk in His ways, to keep . . . His Commandments (2:3). He established relations with Egypt for the first time since Israel's Exodus 480 years earlier.

Solomon may have thought that marriage to Pharaoh's daughter would prevent future wars with Egypt, increase his prestige among the surrounding nations, and give him a better price on the thousands of horses he purchased from Pharaoah (9:16). Solomon's goal was to become famous and popular in the world. In doing this, he ignored the Word of God concerning the responsibilities of the kings of Israel: He shall not multiply horses . . . or return to Egypt, in order to multiply horses . . . he shall never return that way . . . neither shall he multiply wives to himself . . . neither shall he greatly mutliply to himself silver and gold (Deut. 17:16-17).

His most serious neglect was to write him a copy of this Law. . . . and he shall read therein all the days of his life: that he may learn to fear the Lord his God, to keep all the words of this Law and these Statutes, to do them: That his heart be not lifted up above his brethren, and that he turn not aside from the Commandment (Deut. 17:18-20).

Solomon is typical of the overconfident, multitalented, and often very sucessful, who become too busy to read through the Bible. They believe they can run with the wrong crowd, have a drink now and then, and still not lose out with the Lord since they are wise enough to "handle it." But they ignore the fact that: Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging: and whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise (Prov. 20:1).

This compromise often becomes a powerful foothold of sin and Satan that destroys spiritual usefulness.

Thought for Today:

For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world (I John 2:16).
Christ Portrayed:

Through the wisdom which God gave Solomon (I Kin. 3:12). That no flesh should glory in His presence. But of Him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption: That, according as it is written, He that glorieth, let him glory in the Lord (I Cor. 1:29-31).
Word Studies:

2:44 is privy to =knowingly did; 3:1 made affinity =made an alliance by marriage; 3:19 overlaid it =lay on him; 3:26 her bowels yearned =she had motherly compassion; 4:6 tribute =forced labor; 4:28 dromedaries =young camels, swift steeds; charge =responsibility.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Elaine Ciossi • Staff: Mike Moore • Government Official: Rep. James Langevin (RI) • Country: Georgia (5.38 million) west and central Transcaucasia between Asia and Europe • Major languages: Georgian and Russian • Religious opposition to Christianity • 57% Georgian (and Russian) Orthodox; 21.2% Muslim; 5% Armenian Apostolic; .8% Catholic (Greek-Catholic); .5% Protestant (mainly Baptist); .5% Jewish; 15% Atheist/Agnostic • Prayer Suggestion: Pray and give thanks to the Lord for your brothers and sisters in Christ (Col. 1:2-3).
Optional Reading: Acts 23

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 6:12

[Judy Harder]

Read I Kings 5 -- 7

Highlights:

Solomon plans for the construction of the Temple. Check out how many years it took before Solomon begins to build the Temple of God and how long before he began accumulating horses (I Kin. 4:26; 6:1).
Verses for Today:

The Word of the Lord came to Solomon, saying, Concerning this house which thou art in building, if thou wilt walk in My Statutes, and execute My Judgments, and keep all My Commandments to walk in them; then will I perform My Word with thee, which I spake unto David thy father: And I will dwell among the children of Israel (I Kin. 6:11-13).
Solomon's Temple was twice the size of the Tabernacle. It was 90 feet long, 30 feet wide, and 45 feet tall (6:2). The interior was divided into two rooms. The first room was called the Holy Place and was 60 by 30 feet; the second room was called the Holy of Holies and was a 30 x 30 x 30 foot cube.

In the four hundred and eightieth year after the children of Israel were come out of the land of Egypt, in the fourth year of Solomon's reign . . . he began to build the House of the Lord (6:1). No other building in the world compared with Solomon's Temple. Costly materials and treasures were lavished upon it by David. Its true lory was the Shekinah Glory — the presence of God who dwelt within the Holy of Holies.

This is also true of the Christian, who is a temple of God. The miracle of the new birth and the indwelling Holy Spirit make the difference between the Christian, the unsaved, and all other religions. Jesus said: I am The Way, The Truth, and The Life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by Me (John 14:6). The Apostle Peter attested: Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other Name . . . whereby we must be saved (Acts 4:12).

Every child of God is more precious to our Heavenly Father than Solomon's Temple. Ye are the temple of God (I Cor. 3:16). Every day is a sacred trust that becomes more meaningful with the awareness that the God of heaven lives within every believer. Ye . . . are built upon the foundations of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the Chief Corner Stone; In whom all the building fitly framed together for growth unto an holy temple in the Lord: In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit (Eph. 2:19-22).

For ye are bought with a price (belong to God): therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit (I Cor. 6:20).

Thought for Today:

When He, the Spirit of Truth, is come, He will guide you into all truth . . . He will shew you things to come (John 16:13).
Christ Revealed:

Through the Temple (I Kin. 6). Christ is the true Temple (John 2:21). Through Christ all may have access to God (Rom. 5:12-21). Through Him we . . . have access by one Spirit unto the Father (Eph. 2:18).
Word Studies:

5:3 under the soles of his feet =under his control; 5:4 evil occurrent =evil happenings; 5:13 levy =forced labor; 6:2 a cubit =about 18 inches; 6:5 oracle =Holy of Holies. Oracle in I Kings 8:8-9 =inner sanctuary, location of the two tables of stone. God cannot be separated from His Word whether spoken or written; 6:38 month (of) Bul =October/November; 7:4 ranks =rows; 7:9 coping =the top, the highest course of stone; 7:14 cunning =skilled.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in honor of Rick Hash • Bible Pathway Printer: Ambrose Printing Staff, Nashville TN • Government Official: Rep. Fred Upton (MI) • Country: Germany (82 million) in north-central Europe • Major language: German • Religious freedom • 33.8% Evangelical (Lutheran); 33.6% Catholic; 3.4% Muslim; 1% Orthodox; 1% Other Christian; .2% Other; 27% None • Prayer Suggestion: Give thanks to the Lord and praise Him openly, for He has redeemed you through His blood and forgiven all your sins (Col. 1:12-14).
Optional Reading: Acts 24

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 6:12

[Judy Harder]

Read I Kings 8

Highlights:

What an inspiring chapter! The Temple is finally finished. The priests carry in the Ark and other sacred items and Solomon prays. The cloud of the glory of the Lord fills the House as trumpet players, and singers with cymbals . . . psalteries and harps . . . were as one (II Chron 5:12-13). WOW! You will love it!
Verses for Today:

The Lord our God . . . incline our hearts unto Him, to walk in all His ways, and to keep . . . His Judgments. . . . That all the people of the earth may know that the Lord is God, and that there is none else (I Kin. 8:57-60).
The day had arrived for the dedication of the glorious Temple in Jerusalem. Then Solomon assembled the elders of Israel . . . in Jerusalem, that they might bring up the Ark of the Covenant of the Lord out of the city of David, which is Zion. . . . the priests brought in the Ark of the Covenant of the Lord unto . . . the Most Holy Place (I Kings 8:1,6). The Ark is where the presence of God dwelt above the Mercy Seat. When the priests were come out of the Holy Place . . . the glory of the Lord . . . filled the House of the Lord (8:11). The people stood and worshiped the Lord at the Temple dedication.

Solomon offered a sacrifice . . . unto the Lord, two and twenty thousand oxen, and an hundred and twenty thousand sheep. So the king and all the children of Israel dedicated the House of the Lord (8:63). The word "sacrifice" does not mean "a great loss." A sacrifice to the Lord is something dedicated to the Lord. Solomon prayed the longest recorded prayer in the Bible as he praised God for His faithfulness as the One who keepest covenant and mercy with Thy servants that walk before Thee with all their heart (8:22-23).

The Israelites were chosen to let the world know there is only One True God. That all people of the earth may know Thy Name, to fear Thee, as do Thy people Israel (8:43).

Eventually, Solomon's pride and his love for power, luxury, and physical satisfaction brought the judgment of God upon him. (I Kin. 11:1,3,9,11). What a difference the outcome would have been if Solomon had lived the Truths he expressed in prayer! The Lord knows whether our prayers are mere passing emotion or if they are truly an expression of our innermost obedience to His Word. The emphasis we place on the things of this world — The lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life (I John 2:16) — reveal the true depth of our sincerity and loyalty to God.

Thought for Today:

For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also (Matt. 6:21).
Christ Revealed:

As the perfect Temple of God before whom all kings of the earth one day must bow (I Kin. 8:54; John 2:19-21). Wherefore God also hath highly exalted Him, and given Him a Name which is above every name (Phil. 2:9).
Word Studies:

8:2 Ethanim (later called Tishri) =Sept/Oct; 8:37 blasting =blight; 8:47 bethink themselves =learn their lesson and repent.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Official: Sen. Jon Kyl (AZ) • Country: Ghana (19 million) in western Africa • Major languages: English and African languages • The government permits freedom to churches and missionaries that do not get involved in politics • 31% belief in spirits and witches; 22% Protestant; 17% Muslim; 11% Roman Catholic • Prayer Suggestion: Ask the Lord to write His precepts in your heart (Col. 3:16).
Optional Reading: Acts 25

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 6:12

[Judy Harder]

Read I Kings 9 -- 11

Highlights:

God visits Solomon again and explains the two paths before him and their consequences (I Kin. 9:2-9). Solomon's fame spreads, but, sadly, chapters 10 & 11 explain his shame. Solomon ignored all qualifications for Israel's kings (Deut. 17:14-20). He gradually forsakes the Lord and worships idols (I Kin. 11:4-10). He is an example of: What is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? (Matt. 16:26).
Verses for Today:

The Lord appeared to Solomon. . . . And . . . said unto him. . . . If thou wilt walk before Me, as David thy father walked, in integrity of heart, and in uprightness, to do . . . all that I have commanded thee . . . Then I will establish . . . thy kingdom . . . for ever (I Kin. 9:2-5).
The Lord gave Solomon special privileges exceeding those of other kings. But the Lord's continued blessings are conditional. Did Solomon deceive himself into thinking that, as king, he could ignore the Word of God in his personal life?

There is no indication that Solomon made an effort to encourage any of his wives to worship the One True God. The horrifyfing fact is: For it came to pass, when Solomon was old, that his wives turned away his heart after other gods (11:4).

The Lord created us to first fulfill His will in us as well as use our talents (abilities) to extend His kingdom throughout the world. His righteousness is our first concern: Wherefore laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, and all evil speakings, As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the Word, that ye may grow thereby (I Pet. 2:1-2).

Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity (the love of God). For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. But he that lacketh these things . . . hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins. Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall (II Pet. 1:4-10).

Thought for Today:

There is One God, and One Mediator between God and men, the Man Christ Jesus (I Tim. 2:5)
Christ Portrayed:

By David who lived to please the Lord in integrity of heart (I Kin. 9:4). Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man (Luke 2:52).
Word Studies:

9:13 Cabul =displeasing, as worthless; 9:15 levy =tax in the form of forced labor; 9:22 bondmen =slaves, forced laborers; 9:24 Millo = mound of earth raised as a fortress just north of Mount Zion and outside the original city of David; 10:2 train =loyal attendants; 10:5 there was no more spirit in her =she was breathless, overwhelmed, amazed; 10:19 stays =armrests; 10:26 bestowed =stationed; 11:1 strange =foreign; 11:5 abomination =horrible, detestable idol; 11:31 rend =rear.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Official: Sen. John Ensign (NV) • Country: Greece (10.5 million) in southeastern Europe • Major languages: Greek and English • Government restrictions on witnessing to others about Christ • 87% Orthodox; 8% Old Calendar Orthodox; 2% Catholic; 1.2% Muslim; .5% Jehovah's Witness; .3% Protestant; 1% Other • Prayer Suggestion: Continue to watch and pray with thanksgiving (Col. 4:2).
Optional Reading: Acts 26

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 6:13

[Judy Harder]

Read I Kings 12 -- 13

Highlights:

Rehoboam follows advice of foolish friends. Selfish ambition in Jeroboam and Rehoboam leads the nation to split into the Northern and Southern Kingdoms. We learn the consequences of not obeying the commands of God (I Kin. 13:11-32).
Verses for Today:

Jeroboam said in his heart . . . if this people go up to do sacrifice in the House of the Lord at Jerusalem . . . they shall kill me, and go again to Rehoboam king of Judah. Whereupon the king . . . made two calves of gold, and said . . . behold thy gods, O Israel. . . . And he set the one in Bethel, and the other put he in Dan. . . . And he . . . made priests . . . which were not the sons of Levi. . . . And this thing became sin unto the house of Jeroboam . . . to destroy it (I Kin. 12:26-31;13:34).
King Solomon was buried in the city of David his father (11:43). His son Rehoboam inherited power and a treasury full of wealth; however, Solomon left the kingdom morally and spiritually bankrupt. Jeroboam and all the congregation of Israel came, and spake unto Rehoboam, saying, Thy father made our yoke grievous (harsh, hard): now therefore make . . . his heavy yoke which he put upon us, lighter, and we will serve thee (12:3-4).

Note that Rehoboam said to his newly-appointed cabinet of young friends: What counsel give ye that we may answer this people? (12:9). Taking the young men's counsel, Rehoboam foolishly threatened the nation with additional taxes and even more cruel treatment. This blunder caused the people to rebel. Jeroboam successfully led a revolt that divided the kindom and gained the support of the 10 northern tribes. The tribe of Judah, as well as the tribe of Benjamin and most of the Levites, remained faithful to the worship of God in Jerusalem.

Jeroboam provided his new northern kingdom with two "more convenient" places of worship at Bethel in the south and Dan in the north. The Word of God clearly commanded that all worship sacrifices must be conducted at the Temple in Jerusalem (Deut. 12:13-14). And He shall give Israel up because of the sins of Jeroboam . . . who made Israel to sin (I Kin. 14:16).

A similar departure from the fundamental doctrines of the Word of God is prevalent today. Pitiful as this is, many Christians neglect to read His Word and simply read numerous popular books and consequently do not know the Truth of God. Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening (greedy) wolves (Matt. 7:15).

Thought for Today:

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).
Christ Portrayed:

Through Shemaiah who spoke for the Lord (I Kin. 12:22). Jesus spoke only what the Father told Him: I have not spoken of Myself; but the Father which sent Me, He gave Me a Commandment, what I should say, and what I should speak (John 12:49).
Word Studies:

12:14 scorpions =scourges with sharp points; 12:32 high places =pagan shrines; 13:6 intreat =plead in prayer; 13:32 cried =shouted, declared.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in honor of Bonnie Wilhite • Staff: Clarence Rathbone • Government Official: Rep. Niki Tsongas (MA) • Country: Greenland (60,000) northeast of Canada • Major languages: Eskimo dialects and Danish • Religious freedom • 98% Protestant; .1% Roman Catholic • Prayer Suggestion: Ask the Lord to give you boldness and opportunities to share the Gospel with others (Col. 4:3-4).
Optional Reading: Acts 27

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 6:13

[Judy Harder]

  Bible Pathways

Tuesday, April 27, 2010   
 
Read I Kings 14 -- 15

Highlights:

Jeroboam pays dearly for his sins (I Kin. 13:33-34) by the death of his son (14:1-16). From here on we see one king follow another, leaving a legacy of evil in the sight of the Lord (15:26,34).
Verses for Today:

Judah did evil in the sight of the Lord. . . . And . . . Shishak king of Egypt . . . took away the treasures of the House of the Lord . . . and . . . all the shields of gold. . . . And King Rehoboam made in their stead brazen shields (I Kin. 14:22-27).
During the first three years after the division of the kingdom of Israel, the Southern Kingdom of Judah, ruled by Rehoboam, was greatly influenced to worship the Lord. For the Levites left their suburbs and their possession, and came to Judah and Jerusalem. . . . So they strengthened the kingdom of Judah, and made Rehoboam the son of Solomon strong (II Chr. 11:14,17). Most of the priests and Levites from the ten tribes migrated south into Jerusalem as a protest against the two worship centers of King Jeroboam in Dan and Bethel, as well as a new group of idol-serving priests.

When Rehoboam had established the kingdom, and had strengthened himself, he forsook the Law of the Lord, and all Israel with him (12:1). Judah (the Southern Kingdom) did evil in the sight of the Lord . . . above all that their fathers had done. For they also built them high places, and (idolatrous) images, and groves (idol centers). . . . And there were also sodomites (homosexuals and lesbians) in the land; and they did according to all the abominations of the nations (I Kin. 14:22-24). It is no surprise then that God withdrew His blessings and protection from Judah.

After Shishak had lost the city, Rehoboam made shields of brass (bronze) and continued as though nothing had happened. These shields should have reminded the Israelites that their worship was worthless because of their unfaithfulness to God, Pity the poor soul that gives the appearance of worshiping God, but does not worship Him from the heart in obedience to His Word. His worship is worthless. Jesus said: Not everyone 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).

The wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all . . . unrighteousness of men, who hold (repress) the Truth in unrighteousness (Rom. 1:18).

Thought for Today:

Though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other Gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed (Gal. 1:.
Christ Revealed:

In Asa's ridding the land of idols and sodomites (I Kin. 15:11-14). Christ cleansed the Temple (Matt. 21:12-13; John 2:13-17). As Christians, we are the Temples of God, bought with His own blood (I Cor. 6:19-20; II Cor. 6:16-17) and are cleansed of all unrighteousness when we confess our sins (I John 1:9).
Word Studies:

14:3 cracknels =cakes or fig bars; 14:5 feign herself =pretend; 14:6 heavy tidings =very sad news; 14:15 groves =pagan idol shrines; 15:12 took away the Sodomites =banished homosexual male prostitutes; 15:17 suffer =allow or permit.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in honor of Linda Kennon • Government Officials: Rep. George Butterfield (NC) and Rep. Betsy Markey (CO) • Country: Grenada (97,000) southernmost of the Windward Islands • Major language: English • Religious freedom • 61% Roman Catholic; 31% Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: Pray for more faithful Christian workers (I Thess. 1:2-3).
Optional Reading: Acts 28

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 6:13

[Judy Harder]

Bible Pathways

Wednesday, April 28, 2010 

Read I Kings 16 -- 18

Highlights:

The prophecy of Jehu against Baasha — what you sow, you shall reap (I Kin. 16:1-7; comp. Gal. 6:7). More evil kings follow until Omri who wrought evil . . . worse than all that were before him (16:25). Ahab and his evil wife Jezebel. Elijah's prophecy of drought; Elijah fed by ravens, the poor widow whose son he raises from the dead. Read about the thrilling battle between a man of God and a nation of evil men (chap. 17 — 18).
Verses for Today:

Elijah . . . said unto Ahab, As the Lord God of Israel liveth . . . there shall not be dew nor rain these years, but according to my word. . . . And there was a sore (severe) famine in Samaria (I Kin. 17:1; 18:2).
Ahab promoted Baal worship as a result of his marriage to Jezebel. During his reign, Israelite worshipers of God hid in caves in fear for their lives. After Elijah prayed earnestly that it might not rain (James 5:17), he declared to Ahab that no rain would fall: But according to my word (I Kin. 17:1). Elijah's faith was in God, who had said: Take heed to yourselves, that . . . ye turn (not) aside, and serve other gods . . . And . . . He shut up the heaven, that there be no rain (Deut. 11:16-17).

After 31/2 years of no rain (James 5:17), Elijah again informed the king that Israel's drought was the result of rejecting the Commandments of the Lord. . . . Now therefore send, and gather to me all Israel unto Mount Carmel, and the prophets of Baal four hundred and fifty, and the prophets of the groves four hundred (I Kin. 18:18-19).

Elijah challenged the 850 false prophets to call on the name of your gods to consume their sacrifice (18:25). They prayed frantically a full day to no avail, then Elijah called the people to come near unto me. . . . And he repaired the altar of the Lord that was broken down (18:30). He prayed: Lord God . . . let it be known this day that Thou art God in Israel, and that I am Thy servant, and that I have done all these things at Thy Word. . . . Then the fire of the Lord fell, and consumed the burnt sacrifice . . . And when all the people saw it, they fell on their faces: and they said, The Lord, He is the God; the Lord, He is the God (18:36-39).

All the false prophets were then executed (18:40; see Deut. 13:1-5). Afterwards, Elijah said unto Ahab . . . there is a sound of abundance of rain (I Kin. 18:41; see James 5:17-18).

Like Elijah we should pray earnestly — and keep on praying, trusting in the grace and promises of God to meet our needs.

Thought for Today:

Take, my brethren, the prophets, who have spoken in the Name of the Lord, for an example of suffering affliction, and of patience. Behold, we count them happy which endure (James 5:10-11).
Christ Portrayed:

By Elijah, whom God used to provide flour and oil for the needy widow at Zarephath (I Kin. 17:13-16). Christ our Provider supplies all our needs according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus (Phil. 4:19).
Word Studies:

17:16 wasted not =was not used up; 18:4 cut off =murdered; 18:19 eat at Jezebel's table =are provided for by Jezebel; 18:21 halt =waver, undecided.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in memory of Iva Ann McElroy • Government Official: Rep. Tom Cole (OK) • Country: Guatemala (12.3 million) in Central America • Major languages: Spanish and Indian languages • Religious freedom • 60% Catholic; 35% Protestant; 2% Animist; 1.5% Other; 1.5% None • Prayer Suggestion: Pray to the Lord with earnestness night and day (I Thess. 3:10).
Optional Reading: Romans 1

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 6:13

[Judy Harder]

Bible Pathways

Thursday, April 29, 2010 

Read I Kings 19 -- 20
Highlights:

Wicked Queen Jezebel threatens the life of Elijah to morrow (I Kin. 19:2). He is miraculously sustained by angels (19:9-12). Read the plan of God to provide a successor for Elijah (19:15-19). God uses wicked Ahab and proves to him that I am the Lord (20:28-34). Ahab's death foretold.
Verses for Today:

Elijah. . . . said, It is enough: now, O Lord, take away my life; for I am not better than my fathers. And as he lay and slept under a juniper tree, behold, then an angel touched him, and said unto him, Arise and eat (I Kin. 19:1-5).
Apparently, Elijah believed that the miraculous fire from heaven and the end of the drought would prove Baal to be a false god, and it would result in Ahab and Jezebel's conversion to the One True God.

Ahab headed toward his palace to tell Jezebel what had happened. Responding immediately, Jezebel sent a messenger unto Elijah, saying, So let the gods do to me, and more also, if I make not thy life as the life of one of them by to morrow about this time. And when he saw that, he arose, and went (ran) for his life (19:2-3). Avoiding the ruthless Jezebel was not weakness but wisdom. However, feeling defeated and discouraged, he prayed: O Lord, take away my life; for I am not better than my fathers (19:4).

There is no indication that Elijah contemplated suicide; he believed that God was the Creator and Lord of his life and only God had the right to take life. What he meant was: "I'm a failure. I have not achieved my mission, and there seems to be no hope of restoring the nation to worship You as the One True God." However, God lovingly sent an angel to provide for Elijah's physical needs after his long journey (19:5-6).

Often our mountaintop spiritual victories are followed by moments of disappointment when it seems we have failed. Our estimation of what we hoped to achieve and the value God attributes to our efforts are much more. We are not called to be successful, but be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life (Rev. 2:10).

Although he did not know it, Elijah did accomplish what God wanted him to do. All the Israelites (I Kin. 18:18-20) in Ahab's kingdom went home with a renewed conviction that: The Lord, He is the God (18:39). Elijah has given encouragement to millions of believers.

Thought for Today:

The Lord is nigh unto all them that call upon Him, to all that call upon Him in truth. . . . The Lord preserveth all them that love Him: but all the wicked will He destroy (Ps. 145:18,20).
Christ Portrayed:

By the unnamed prophet who prophesied victory to King Ahab so that he would know his destiny was controlled by God: Thou shalt know that I am the Lord (I Kin. 20:13,28). Thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ (I Cor. 15:57).
Word Studies:

19:8 Horeb =Mount Sinai; 19:14 jealous =zealous; 19:21 instruments =yokes; 20:11 harness =armor; 20:12 set yourselves in array =get ready to attack; 20:24 rooms =positions, places.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in memory of Henry Rogers • Government Officials: Rep. Rodney Frelinghuysen (NJ) and Sen. Debbie Stabenow (MI) • Country: Guinea (8 million) on the Atlantic coast of western Africa • Major languages: French and tribal languages • Freedom for nationals, but strict limitations on missionaries • 83% Muslim; 12% tribal religions; 4% Roman Catholic; .6% Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: Make everything you do a matter of prayer (I Thess. 5:17).
Optional Reading: Romans 2

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 6:13

[Judy Harder]

Read I Kings 21 -- 22

Highlights:

Jezebel murders Naboth to satisfy Ahab's coveting a poor man's vineyard; Elijah foretells the death of Ahab and Jezebel (I Kin. 21:17-24) and it comes to pass (22:37-38). Jehoshaphat does right in the eyes of the Lord. . . . the sodomites . . . he took out of the land (22:43,46).
Verse for Today:

Micaiah said, As the Lord liveth, what the Lord saith unto me, that will I speak (I Kin. 22:14).
Ahab ruled the Northern Kingdom of Israel in Samaria. Just a few words describes his life: But there was none like . . . Ahab, which did sell himself to work wickedness in the sight of the Lord, whom Jezebel his wife stirred up (incited). And he did very abominably (behaved in a very vile, detestable manner) in following idols (21:25-26).

Ahab invited Jehoshaphat, king of Judah and his daughter's father in law (II Kin. 8:16-18), to join him in a war to retake Ramoth-gilead from Syria. Jesoshaphat agreed to join Ahab in attacking Syria. About four hundred of Ahab's paid prophets unanimously assured the two kings of a great victory. But godly Jehoshaphat must have felt uneasy and asked Ahab: Is there not here a prophet of the Lord besides, that we might inquire of him? (22:7). Reluctantly, Ahab replied: There is yet one man, Micaiah . . . by whom we may inquire of the Lord: but I hate him; for he doth not prophesy good concerning me, but evil (22:.

The messenger who was sent to bring Micaiah from prison spake unto him, saying . . . let thy word, I pray thee, be like the word of one of them . . . And Micaiah said, As the Lord liveth, what the Lord saith unto me, that will I speak (22:13-14). Obedience to God was far more important than his freedom, and he courageously proclaimed: I saw all Israel scattered upon the hills, as sheep that have not a shepherd (22:17). There were 400 "yes" votes to Micaiah's definite "no" vote.

Micaiah had bluntly foretold Ahab's death. And the king of Israel said unto Jehoshaphat, Did I not tell thee that he would prophesy no good concerning me, but evil? (22:18). He then ordered Micaiah to be sent back to prison. For this is thankworthy, if a man for conscience toward God endure grief, suffering wrongfully (I Pet. 2:19). The obedient prophet was right, Ahab died on the first day of battle (I Kin. 22:34,37).

Ahab's disregard for the Word of God should be a warning to all who are making the same fatal mistake. In contrast, a follower of Christ can express unlimited peace of mind with the psalmist: I have set the Lord always before me: because He is at my right hand, I shall not be moved (Ps. 16:.

Thought for Today:

His praise shall continually be in my mouth (Ps. 34:1).
Christ Portrayed:

By Micaiah, who would say only what God instructed him to say (I Kin. 22:14). Jesus faithfully told others only what God told Him to say. Then said Jesus unto them . . . I do nothing of Myself; but as My Father hath taught Me, I speak these things (John 8:28; 12:49-50).
Word Studies:

21:27 softly =sadly, subdued; 22:3 be still =do nothing; 22:11 push =ore; 22:13 with one mouth =unanimously; 22:16 adjure thee =put you under oath; 22:34 at a venture =without specific aim; harness =armor; 22:48 broken =wrecked.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Dr. John A. Hash in memory of Letha Hash • Government Officials: Rep. Mary Jo Kilroy (OH) and Rep. Robert Scott (VA) • Staff: Barbara Bivens • Country: Guinea-Bissau (1 million) on the western coast of Africa • Major languages: Portuguese and Criolo • Religious freedom • 51% animist; 42% Muslim; 6% Roman Catholic; .7% Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: Give thanks always for fellow Christians (II Thess. 2:13-14).
Optional Reading: Romans 3

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 6:13