Bible Pathways

[Judy Harder]

Read I Chronicles 3 -- 5

Highlights:

David's family born in Hebron and Jerusalem; Solomon to Zedekiah; Judah's descendants. The conquest and captivity of the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and half tribe of Manasseh.
Reuben was the firstborn son of Jacob. But, forasmuch as he defiled his father's bed, his birthright was given unto the sons of Joseph . . . and the genealogy is not to be reckoned after the birthright (I Chr. 5:1). The descendantsof Reuben settled for less than the best ever since.

The tribe of Reuben preferred to live in the fertile area just outside the promised land (Num. 32). They chose what appeared would bring them a better life. However, with the river separating them from their kindred in the promised land, the Reubenites were among the first tribes to be taken as slaves to Assyria. The God of Israel stirred up the spirit of . . . Tilgath-pilneser king of Assyria, and he carried them away, even the Reubenites (5:26). Jacob's prophecy, thou shalt not excel (49:4), truly came to pass; no one from the tribe of Reuben ever became a judge or a prophet.

How satisfying it is to yield oneself to God who uses the men and women who have prepared themselves to serve the Lord. He appoints one person to be king — another, to be a servant. Whatever God has chosen for us, in faith we should rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice (Phil. 4:4).

In the calling of God there is nothing about which we should murmur and nothing of which to be proud, but there is much to praise the Lord for. Furthermore, there should also be no desire to be jealous of other people's "advantages." God always chooses what is His best for those who leave the choice with Him. So there is no need to think we were cheated or left out. It is of utmost importance that we in every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you (I Thess. 5:18). There could be nothing more tragic than to come to life's end knowing we chose a self-serving agenda. We have only one life to live, it will soon be past, and only what's done for Christ will last.

Today God wants you to place Him first in your life. Pray for the opportunity to use your talents and time in the ministry of the Gospel. God is always ready to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think (Eph. 3:20).

All who seek . . . first the Kingdom of God, and His righteousness (Matt. 6:33) can with the Apostle Paul say: I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, shall give . . . them . . . that love His appearing (II Tim. 4:7-8).

Thought for Today:

Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh (Matt. 25:13).
Christ Revealed:

Through the genealogy of David (I Chr. 3:1-24). Christ the Son of God was also called the Son of David: The Book of the generation of Jesus Christ, the Son of David (Matt. 1:1; Luke 3:23-38; Rom. 1:3).
Word Studies:

3:9 concubines =b> a woman legitimately married to a man but inferrior to the regular wife and excluded with her children from the heritage (Gen. 25:6). Concubines could be taken from among Hebrews, slaves, or war captives; 4:10 coast =b> beach front, border of territory, boundary; 4:40 fat =b> rich, good; 5:11 over against =b> across from.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Stella A. Brown • Staff: Gina Lesnefsky • Government Officials: Gov. Dave Heineman (NE), Rep. Frank LoBiondo (NJ), and Rep. Jared Polis (CO) • Country: Israel (6.1 million) in the Middle East • Major languages: Hebrew and Arabic • Witnessing to Jews about Christ the Messiah is actively discouraged • 80.2% Jewish (mostly secular); 14.6% Muslim (largely Sunni); 2.1% Christian; 1.6% Druze; 1.5% Other • Prayer Suggestion: Remember that it is by the blood of Christ that we have access to God in prayer (Heb. 10:19).
Optional Reading: Romans 15

Memory Verse for the Week: John 1:4

 

[Judy Harder]

Read I Chronicles 6 -- 7

Highlights:

Levi and the priestly line include Moses and Aaron. Lists of all the priestly services. The homes of the Levites.
Chapter six is given wholly to the tribe of Levi, which God appointed to serve as His priests. Observe the striking differences in the character of the men who were set apart for sacred service. Some were wholeheartedly devoted to their God-given responsibilities while others profaned their holy calling. From the time of Aaron, the first high priest, until the Babylonian captivity, the names of the priests are documented in detail. Aaron was devoted to his God-given responsibilities, but two of his sons, who had every opportunity to be equally used by the Lord, were hypocrites (Lev. 10:1-2; Num. 3:4). Eli was a faithful prophet but his sons were unworthy immoral reprobates. Samuel was a godly judge, priest and prophet, but his sons were unscrupulous and took bribes. For years, Zadok (I Chr. 6: shared the High Priest position with Abiathar (I Kin. 2:26-35), but by participating in Adonijah's plot to seize the throne from David, Abiathar became a traitor (1:7).

Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found (remain) faithful (I Cor. 4:2).

The sons of Levi represented a sacred office — not a political appointment or popular vote of the people — so there was to be submissive obedience to their God-given call.

Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven (Matt. 5:16).

Every true Christian today has the privilege and responsibility of representing the Lord and of being a faithful servant of Christ.

But wilt thou know . . . that faith without (that does not result in) works is dead (worthless)? Was not Abraham our father justified by works, when he had offered Isaac his son upon the altar? Seest thou how faith wrought with his works, and by works was faith made perfect (proven to be true faith) (James 2:20-22)?

It should be of little consequence to us whether or not it appears that we are used of God in a spectacular ministry. We are prone to measure approval by God in the light of sensational success. However, the person who satisfies God is one who gives the best of himself — his time, talents, and thoughts — fulfilling the will of God. Jesus illustrates this by observing a widow who gave in the Temple offering only two mites and said: This poor widow hath cast in more than they all (Luke 21:3). She was not in competition with anyone — just doing the best she could for the Lord with what she had.

Thought for Today:

May the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ (I Thess. 5:23).
Christ Revealed:

By the cities of . . . refuge (I Chr. 6:57, also 67,71-72,78,80). For a person to have protection from the avenger of blood, he had to flee to a city of refuge. God provided His Only Begotten Son Jesus Christ to be our Refuge from His judgment against our sin. (Compare John 3:14-18; 10:24-30; Gal. 2:16; 3:1-14; Heb. 10:1-18; I John 2:2; Rev. 1:5.) When, by faith, in obedience to His Word, we come to Christ, He becomes our Refuge (Heb. 6:18-20).
Word Studies:

6:32 waited on =b> performed service in; 6:66 residue =b> balance; 6:74 suburbs =b> pasturelands; 7:23 it went evil with =b> tragedy had happened to his family; 7:24 nether =b> lower.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Thursday Morning Prayer • Staff: Rita Guerra • Country: Italy (58 million) in southern Europe • Major languages: Italian and German • Religious freedom • 81% Roman Catholic; .4% Protestant; .1% Eastern Orthodox • Prayer Suggestion: Draw near to God in prayer with a true heart in assurance of faith (Heb. 10:22).
Optional Reading: Romans 16

Memory Verse for the Week: John 1:4

[Judy Harder]

Read I Chronicles 8 -- 10

Highlights:

We see who dwells in Jerusalem and their duties (I Chr. 9:2-3; Neh. 11:3). Tragic deaths of Saul and his sons. David's great loyalty (I Chr. 10:11-12).
The Israelites had been captives for 70 years when Babylon fell and Cyrus, king of Persia, proclaimed their freedom. This fulfilled Isaiah's prophecy two hundred years earlier that Cyrus. . . . shall let go My captives (Is. 45:1,13). Every devout Jew must have been assured beyond all doubt that Jehovah was with them in their return to Judah.

About 80 years after this first group of Jews returned to their homeland, Ezra, a descendant of Aaron (Ezra 7:5), received permission from Artaxerxes, king of Persia, to return to Jerusalem to initiate a religious reform (7:1,6).

About eighteen hundred Jews left Babylon with him to rebuild the Temple that had been destroyed by Nebuchadnezzar's armies many years earlier. After fasting and praying for three days for a safe journey (8:15,21-23), they set out. Four months later they reached Jerusalem, having traveled about 900 miles.

The Chronicles were especially written to encourage Jews in Judea. These people had returned to rebuild the Temple, and their brethren, heads of the house of their fathers, a thousand and seven hundred and threescore; (were) very able men for the work of the service of the House of God (I Chr. 9:13). They needed assurance of the presence of God and His prophetic promises for the future. Therefore, this Book centers around the Temple, the priests, and proper worship.

The return was at a critical time and exposed every volunteer to many dangers. The reconstruction required courage and able men for the work of the service. Being able men meant perseverance and working long hours. In fact, they volunteered to be available day and night and stayed a week at a time (9:25,33).

The Chronicles encouraged new loyalty among the Israelites then and all the people of God. As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in Him: Rooted and built up in Him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving (Col. 2:6-7).

Oh, that we might awaken to the seriousness of our opportunities, the urgency of the need around us, and the fleeting nature of time! Let us as faithful men and women give ourselves to provide Bibles and teaching material to the spiritually dying throughout the world today. Tomorrow never comes.

Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that He will send forth labourers into His harvest (Matt. 9:38).

Thought for Today:

Our Lord wants us to serve Him not for fame or reward but because we love Him.
Christ Revealed:

By Jerusalem, which means "foundation of peace" (I Chr. 9:3). Christ is the only Foundation of Peace upon which man can stand before God. Jesus said: My peace I give unto you (John 14:27; II Cor. 5:18; Eph. 2:14).
Word Studies:

8:31 Zacher =b> Zechariah (not the prophet); 9:21 porter =b> gatekeeper of the entrance way; 9:22 set office =b> trustworthy position; 9:23 by wards =b> as guards; 9:28 bring them in and out by tale =b> count them when they bring them in and take them out; 10:2 followed hard after =b> closely pursued and overtook; 10:3 went sore =b> was fierce; 10:4 uncircumcised =b> those without a covenant relationship with God.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Mr. Daniel Klein • Government Officials: Sen. Byron Dorgan (ND), Rep. Alan Mollohan (WV), Rep. Erik Paulsen (MN), and Rep. Jackie Speier (CA) • Country: Jamaica (3 million) in the West Indies • Major languages: English and Creole • Religious freedom • 78% Protestant; 10% Roman Catholic; 7% Afro-American spiritist • Prayer Suggestion: Remember that the Lord is faithful to keep His promises (Heb. 10:23).
Optional Reading: I Corinthians 1

Memory Verse for the Week: John 1:4

[Judy Harder]

Read I Chronicles 11 -- 13

Highlights:

A new era in the life of David begins as he is finally anointed king by both Judah and Israel. Don't miss the "honor roll" of David's mighty men and their achievements. Note how the men of Israel gather with David to present a united front.
Many years of trial, suffering, and patient waiting preceded the promised reign of David over all the ten tribes of Israel. After Saul and his sons were killed and Abner and Ishbosheth were both dead: Then all Israel gathered themselves to David unto Hebron, saying . . . The Lord thy God said unto thee, Thou shalt feed My people Israel . . . and David made a covenant with them in Hebron before the Lord (11:1-3).

Early in his life, David recognized the sovereignty of God and the futility of human ability. Throughout his life, David never lost sight of his youthful conviction that he expressed before King Saul: The Lord that delivered me out of the paw of the lion, and out of the paw of the bear, He will deliver me out of the hand of this Philistine (I Samuel 17:37).

Anyone who recognizes and yields to the authority of God will see that all personal influence and abilities of every kind are gifts of the sovereign God, bestowed lovingly by Him for His eternal purposes. For David it meant waiting patiently long years and going through many difficult circumstances.

In many respects, David's problems parallel situations that we may face today. Just as surely as the Lord gives us an opportunity to accomplish something for His honor, obstacles will also appear to test our faith. It may be a financial situation that seems hopeless, or simply a feeling of inability to cope with problems. For some, not much opposition is needed before they feel there is no use in trying. Even though it may seem as impossible to overcome difficulties as it did for David to become king, just remember, they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength (Is. 40:31). The Lord never promised an easy road for any of His followers. In fact, Jesus said: If any man will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me (Luke 9:23). The way of the cross means intense suffering and often long and lonely days. But once we submit to the authority of Christ as Lord over our lives, we will patiently look to Him in faith for direction and strength.

I will praise Thee, O Lord, with my whole heart; I will shew forth all thy marvellous works (Ps. 9:1).

Thought for Today:

The Lord also will be a refuge for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble. . . . for Thou, Lord has not forsaken them that seek Thee (Ps. 9:9-10).
Christ Portrayed:

By David, the anointed king (I Chr. 11:3). Christ is the Anointed One who will soon reign forever as KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS (Rev. 19:16).
Word Studies:

11:16 hold =b> stronghold; 12:1 close =b> restricted in his movements; in hiding; 12:17 knit =b> joined, united; 12:19 fell . . . to David =b> shifted allegience to David.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in honor of Rick Hash • Government Official: Sec. Kathleen Sebelius (Dept. of Health & Human Services) • Country: Japan (126.7 million) off the eastern coast of Asia • Major language: Japanese • Religious freedom • 49% Buddhist; 45% Shintoist; 1% Christian; 5% Other • Prayer Suggestion: Give thanks for the privilege of assembling with other Christians each week (Heb. 10:25).
Optional Reading: I Corinthians 2

Memory Verse for the Week: John 1:4

[Judy Harder]

Read I Chronicles 14 -- 16

Highlights:

David is blessed by God and his reign prospers. Ark of the Covenant brought to Jerusalem with much thanksgiving. See how our sacrifices are vital to our worship (I Chr. 15:16-24).
During the forty years that Saul reigned over Israel (Acts 13:21), the Ark was ignored. But when David became king, he was deeply concerned that the Ark have a central place in his kingdom. He knew that the nation's success depended upon the presence of God being in their midst, so he said: Let us bring again the Ark of our God to us: for we inquired not at it in the days of Saul (I Chr. 13:3).

David first attempted to bring the Ark to Jerusalem on a new cart drawn by oxen, which violated of the Law of God (Ex. 25:13-15; Num. 4:15; 7:9). As Uzzah reached out to steady the tilting Ark on the cart, he was struck dead (II Sam. 6:1-8).

On the second occasion David gathered all Israel together to Jerusalem, to bring up the Ark of the Lord unto his place, which he had prepared for it (I Chr. 15:3). David carefully obeyed the Word of God, telling the priests to sanctify themselves and bear the Ark of God upon their shoulders as Moses commanded according to the Word of the Lord (15:11-15).

For that day, David was inspired to write a psalm for his choir to sing. It still lifts our spirits as we worship our wonderful Lord. David proclaimed to the world: Give thanks unto the Lord, call upon His Name; make known His deeds among the people. . . . sing psalms unto Him. . . . rejoice. . . . Be ye mindful always of His Covenant (Agreement); the Word which He commanded to a thousand generations. . . . Declare His glory among the heathen. . . . For great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised. . . . bring an offering, and come before Him: worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness. . . . the Lord reigneth (16:8-31).

Is it any surprise that God called David a man after Mine own heart (Acts 13:22; I Sam. 13:14)? Yes, our Creator is still in control and the world needs to hear us praise the Lord and talk of all His wonderful blessings.

The work of God must be done His way if He is to be glorified. As we serve the Lord according to His Word we receive His blessing. Wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverance and godly fear (Heb. 12:28).

Thought for Today:

Wherefore He saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble. Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you (James 4:6-7).
Christ Revealed:

Through David's fame and exaltation (I Chr. 14:17). God highly exalted Christ, our Redeemer, and gave Him a Name which is above every name (Phil. 2:9-11).
Word Studies:

14:13 spread themselves abroad =made a raid, invaded.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Officials: Rep. John Conyers, Jr. (MI) and Rep. James Moran (VA) • Country: Jordan (5 million) in southwestern Asia • Major languages: Arabic and English • Religious tolerance • 93% Muslim; 5% Christian • Prayer Suggestion: Diligently seek the Lord in prayer and He will bless your efforts (Heb. 11:6).
Optional Reading: I Corinthians 3

Memory Verse for the Week: John 1:5

[Judy Harder]

Read I Chronicles 17 -- 20

Highlights:

King David and the Ark of the Covenant. David learns that God does not overlook ignorance of His Word. The Covenant with David. David's kingdom is fully established. A misunderstood kindness leads to a battle and the Ammonites and Syrians are defeated.
It is of utmost importance that we recognize the often-recorded phrase, David inquired of the Lord (I Sam. 23:2,4; 30:8; II Sam. 2:1; 5:19,23; 21:1; I Chr. 14:10,14). All of us need to follow his example. Although he is a powerful king who never lost one battle, he opens his prayer with a deep sense of humility and dependency: Who am I, O Lord God? (17:16). Then he magnifies the Lord: O Lord, there is none like Thee (17:20).

His love for the Word of God and his prayer life were keys to his greatness. In fact, knowing the Word of God is the foundation to anyone's true wisdom, that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God (I Cor. 2:12).

That is why the Apostle Paul was led to write to the Ephesians what is necessary to be prepared for prayer: Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with Truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; And your feet shod with the preparation of the Gospel of peace; Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the Sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God: (THEN) Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints (Eph. 6:11-18).

It may be that numerous things will interfere with our intent topray. It may be an unexpected knock at the door, the ring of a telephone, or children causing a disturbance — unexpected situations, etc. These are not coincidences. These interruptions may be Satan's strategy to keep Christians so busy doing "good" things that they fail to allow Christ to be Lord of their lives. Or they may be sent by God to test our devotion to give ourselves to prayer and reading His Word. We need the discernment of the Holy Spirit to know when to do both.

Thought for Today:

Today, we should ask the Lord as the disciples did: Lord, teach us to pray (Luke 11:1). Then follow His basic guide (11:2-4 and Matt. 6:6-15). .
Christ Portrayed:

By David, the shepherd-king (I Chr. 17:7; comp. Matt. 1:1-2; Rom. 1:3), symbolic of Christ as the Good Shepherd (John 10:11) and King of saints (all believers) (Rev. 15:3).
Word Studies:

17:7 sheepcote =b> pasturelands; 18:4 houghed =b> crippled by cutting leg tendons; 19:4 hard by =b> close to; 19:6 odious =b> detestable, offensive.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Mrs. Helen A. Porter • Staff: Pam Pendergrast • Government Officials: Rep. George Miller (CA) and Sen. Ben Nelson (NE) • Country: Kazakhstan (15.4 million) central Asia • Major languages: Kazakh and Russian • Religious tolerance • 47% Muslim (largely Sunni); 25% Russian Orthodox; 2% Lutheran; 2% Catholic; 2.3% Other • Prayer Suggestion: Pray for those who are in adverse circumstances (Heb. 13:3).
Optional Reading: I Corinthians 4

Memory Verse for the Week: John 1:5

 

[Judy Harder]

Read I Chronicles 21 -- 23

Highlights:

King David, beloved of the Lord, is enticed by Satan and sins; as a result 70,000 people die (21:14). What does the king do to stop the plague (21:26)? David continues gathering material for Solomon to build the Temple.
We could reason, why was it a sin to number the people? Did not the Lord command that a census be taken in the wilderness (Num. 1:1-3; 26:2)? Then too, wasn't census-taking customary with other kings in order to know the size of their army in case of war? In spite of all our questions, the Bible reveals that this decision was instigated by a supernatural enemy of all mankind: Satan stood up against Israel, and provoked David to number Israel. And David said to Joab and to the rulers of the people, Go, number Israel from Beersheba even to Dan; and bring the number of them to me, that I may know it (I Chr. 21:1). Satan, the adversary, was permitted to influence David to authorize the census. Sin is man's own choice to act, and a righteous God judges every sin.

Did David want to know and boast of his army's power? Did he momentarily lose sight of his true Source of strength? Did thoughts of pride or praise from others entice David to overlook the requirements of God for a census?

David's sin was that of human nature and appears most natural, but David failed to pray as he often did before making a decision. Few are conscious that Satan is so powerful in prompting sin which appears on the surface to be human nature. Be assured that wherever there is a ministry being done for Christ, Satan will tempt us to "humbly" brag what God could do through us. But it is not in man that walketh to direct his steps (Jer. 10:23). It is of utmost importance that we never forget that Jesus said: Without Me ye can do nothing (John 15:5). We also are assured: I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me (Phil. 4:13) as we read all the Lord's directions in the Bible. It alone is the Sword of the Spirit (Eph. 6:17). This was true when Satan, the tempter (Matt. 4:3), challenged the Lord in the wilderness temptation. Christ withstood him without wavering by quoting Scripture. Then, the devil leaveth Him (4:3-11). We are assured the devil . . . will flee from you. . . . (If you) draw nigh to God (James 4:7-8).

Our Lord said Satan was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth . . . a liar. . . . the prince of this world (John 8:44; 12:31; 14:30), revealing our adversary as possessing the skill of a mastermind, directing, with executive ability, his work in the children of disobedience (Eph. 2:2).

Thought for Today:

Knowing the Word of God keeps us from falling for Satan's deceptions.
Christ Revealed:

Through the altar David built to sacrifice unto the Lord so that Israel might be restored to a right relationship with God (I Chr. 21:18,26). Only through Christ can we be restored to a right relationship with God. We are justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus (Rom. 3:24).
Word Studies:

21:13 a great strait =b> deep distress; 21:15 repented Him of the evil =b> felt compassion due to man's repentance and intercession; 22:3 without weight =b> beyond calculation; 23:1 old and full of days =b> reached old age; 23:6 courses =b> divisions or groups; 23:11 in one reckoning =b> counted together; 23:24 by their polls =b> individually, by census, head counts.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Iva Jo Swinsburg • Staff: Benjamin Wallace • Government Official: Sen. Tom Udall (NM) • Country: Kenya (29 million) in eastern Africa • Major languages: English and Swahili • Religious freedom • 46% Protestant; 27% Roman Catholic; 17% belief in mystical powers; 6% Muslim; 3% Eastern Orthodox • Prayer Suggestion: Pray to be content with and thankful for the things you have (Heb. 13:5).
Optional Reading: I Corinthians 5

Memory Verse for the Week: John 1:5

[Judy Harder]

Read I Chronicles 24 -- 26

Highlights:

Duties assigned to priests; musicians and singers; divisions of the porters (gatekeepers); treasurers and other officers and judges.
During the time the Ark of the Covenant was in the care of the sons of Obed-edom . . . God blessed him (I Chr. 26:4-5). Three months earlier, King David had planned to take the Ark to Jerusalem and make Jerusalem their religious center.

At that time, the Ark was placed on an ox cart driven by Uzza and Ahio, to transport it from Kirjath-jearim to Jerusalem. The directions for transporting the Ark were recorded in Ex. 25:14; Num 4:15; 7:9; 10:21. David did not follow the instructions and so his plan was not acceptable to God. Along the way, Uzza was struck dead for touching the Ark as he tried to steady it. David refused to take the Ark on to Jerusalem and it was taken to the home of Obed-edom (II Sam. 6:1-11; I Chr. 13:7-14).

There were four thousand porters (23:5) whose duties were to open and close all the gates, act as guards against intruders, and assist and encourage worshipers to minister in the House of the Lord (26:12). Concerning . . . the porters (26:1), it is said that God blessed him (Obed-edom) (26:45). When Obed-edom received the Ark, he received more than the inspired Word of God; he received the very presence of God (Ex. 25:22; 30:6,36; I Sam. 4:4; II Sam. 6:2).

Three months later, after hearing how God blessed Obed-edom, David again planned to have the Ark brought to Jerusalem. But this time it was transported in the way God had directed (15:2-3; Ex. 24:15; Num. 4:15; 7:9).

The Ark was prominent in leading the Israelites through the wilderness (10:33-36). Because it contained the Ten Commandments which God had given to Moses on Mt. Sinai, it was a symbol of the authority of God.

Just as the Ark brought the blessing of God to the home of Obed-edom, so God blesses all who have chosen His Word to rule their lives (John 1:12). The more our thoughts are occupied with Christ and His Word, the more we realize His presence.

Just before He ascended into heaven, Jesus declared: All power is given unto Me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost (Spirit): Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen (Matt. 28:18-20).

Thought for Today:

If worship doesn't come from a heart of love for God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit, it is hypocrisy.
Christ Revealed:

Through the Temple treasures (I Chr. 26:20-28). Christ; In whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge (Col. 2:2-3). In Christ are treasures of wisdom, knowledge, and riches to supply all a believer needs (Phil. 4:19).
Word Studies:

24:2 executed =served in; 24:5 divided by lot =lots were cast to determine the will of God (Prov. 16:33); 24:19 orderings =schedules; 25:5 lift up the horn =sound the trumpet.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Staff: Ilene Wallace • Government Official: Rep. Brad Miller (NC) • Country: Kirabati (86,000) 3 islands in southwestern Pacific • Major languages: English and Gilbutese • Religious freedom • 52% Roman Catholic; 44% Protestant; 2% Baha'i • Prayer Suggestion: Offering praise and thanks to God is a sacrifice pleasing to Him (Heb. 13:15).
Optional Reading: I Corinthians 6

Memory Verse for the Week: John 1:5

[Judy Harder]

Read I Chronicles 27 -- 29

Highlights:

David assigns twelve captains and twelve chief officers (one from each tribe) to be overseers and counselors. He charges Solomon to build the Temple according to the pattern from God. David's gifts for the Temple; his thanks and prayer; Solomon made king; David's death.
David reigned over Israel forty years; seven years . . . in Hebron, and thirty and three years . . . in Jerusalem (I Chr. 29:27). In his last year, David assembled all the tribal princes and military captains. He told them how God had chosen Solomon to build His Temple and that their greatest concern should be obedience to all the Commandments of the Lord your God (28:. Then David charged Solomon: Know . . . the God of thy father, and serve Him with a perfect heart and with a willing mind: for the Lord searcheth all hearts, and understandeth all the imaginations of the thoughts: if thou seek Him, He will be found of thee; but if thou forsake Him, He will cast thee off for ever (28:9).

David then offered one of the most inspiring prayers recorded in the Scriptures: Blessed be Thou, Lord God of Israel our Father, for . . . Thine . . . is the greatness, and the power, and the glory, and the victory, and the majesty . . . Thou art exalted as Head above all. . . . we . . . praise Thy glorious Name (29:10-13).

David's heartfelt prayer is a reminder to all of us that prayer should be a time of praising and worshiping God with thanksgiving for who He is. Now unto the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God, be honour and glory for ever and ever (I Tim. 1:17). Even when we face difficult times our hearts should also overflow with thanksgiving for what He has given us and what He has chosen us to do, for we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works (Eph. 2:10). As we recognize our total dependence upon God for everything, we will praise Him. All things are possible to him that believeth (Mark 9:23). In every thing give thanks. . . . unto God and the Father in the Name of our Lord Jesus Christ (I Thess. 5:18; Eph. 5:20). To complain about our circumstances is to express dissatisfaction with God.

The Holy Spirit inspired David to write: Lift up your hands in the Sanctuary, and bless the Lord (Ps. 134:2). I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting (I Tim. 2:.

Thought for Today:

Every man (person) that hath this hope in Him purifieth himself, even as He is pure (I John 3:3).
Christ Revealed:

Through the gold offered for the Temple by David from his personal wealth (I Chr. 29:3-5). Gold is the purest metal (Rev. 21:21) and represents the preciousness and great worth of Christ. He is pure (undefiled) (I John 3:3).
Word Studies:

27:2 course =division; 28:19 works =b> details; 29:1 tender =b> inexperienced; 29:3 proper good =b> personal treasure; 29:15 none abiding =b> soon gone; 29:19 palace =b> Temple.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Radio Broadcast in honor of Bonnie Wilhite • Executive Director of the IBRA in our Washington DC Branch: Reverend Michael Hall • Government Officials: Sen. Mike Crapo (ID), Rep. Wally Herger (CA), and Rep. Nick Rahall II (WV) • Country: Kuwait (2 million) in the northeastern corner of the Arabian Peninsula • Major languages: Arabic and English • Some religious freedom • 95% Muslim; 4% Christian • Prayer Suggestion: Ask the Lord to work in your life in whatever way pleases Him (Heb. 13:21).
Optional Reading: I Corinthians 7

Memory Verse for the Week: John 1:5

 

[Judy Harder]

Read II Chronicles 1 -- 3

Highlights:

Solomon began his reign with a humble attitude. Two of his first recorded acts were to make affinity by marrying Pharoah's daughter (I Kin. 3:1), and to offer a thousand burnt offerings on the altar to the Lord. He then gathered . . . a thousand and four hundred chariots, and. . . . made silver and gold . . . plenteous (II Chr. 1:14-15). Solomon . . . began to build the House of the Lord (I Kin. 6:1; II Chr. 3:1).
Solomon's kingdom was unequaled in wealth and splendor: Solomon the son of David was strengthened in his kingdom, and the Lord his God was with him, and magnified him exceedingly (1:1). It may seem strange for one to possess such wealth and wisdom and not desire to please the Lord as David did. But possessions give a false sense of security and self-sufficiency which robs some of spiritual insight and the true values of life. The prophet Jeremiah confessed: O Lord, I know that the way of man is not in himself: it is not in man that walketh to direct his steps (Jer. 10:23). The Scriptures teach that the Word of God is the Source of true wisdom for daily direction. All of us need to realize we are to: Trust in the Lord with all thine heart. . . . Be not wise in thine own eyes (Prov. 3:5,7). When we have a desire to do His will, the Spirit of Christ — the Living Word — guides our thoughts and actions.

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. . . . For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God (I Cor. 1:30-31; 3:19).

Eventually, Solomon loved many strange woman. . . . For it came to pass . . . that his wives turned away his heart after other gods (I Kin. 11:1,4). The wisest and most wealthy man on earth did evil in the sight of the Lord . . . and turned from the Lord God of Israel (11:6-9). Jesus told of a successful farmer who said: I will say to my soul . . . take thine ease, eat, drink, and be merry. But God said unto him, Thou fool, this night thy soul shall be required of thee: then whose shall those things be (Luke 12:19-20)? This man was no fool as a farmer, but he gave himself the wrong advice when he congratulated himself on his worldly attainments.

Having food and raiment let us be therewith content (I Tim. 6:. All Christians have a far more important purpose in life to occupy their time with than to accumulate material possessions. Obviously there is a limit. Solomon witnesses to the danger of self-sufficiency. We are living in days of excessive evil to which one is continually exposed.

Thought for Today:

The time is short . . . they that have . . . be as though they had none . . . they that buy, as though they possessed not; and they that use the world, as not abusing it; for the fashion (form) of this world passeth away (I Cor. 7:29-31).
Christ Revealed:

By the thousand burnt offerings of Solomon (II Chr. 1:6). We can be thankful that the one perfect offering of Christ on the cross did away with the need for many and continual individual offerings. He died unto sin once (for all) (Rom. 6:10; Heb. 10:10-12,14).
Word Studies:

2:2 told out =b> assigned; 2:7 cunning =b> skilled; can skill to grave =b> has skill to engrave; 2:14 find out every device =b> execute any design; 2:16 floats =b> rafts; 3:1 affinity =b> alliance by marriage to Pharaoh's daughter; 3:5 cieled =b> paneled; 3:10 of image work =b> fashioned by carving; 3:16 oracle =b> Holy of Holies.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in honor of Linda Kennon • Assistant to the Executive Director of the IBRA in our Washington DC Branch: Terry Hall • Government Official: Sen. George LeMieux (FL) • Country: Kyrgyzstan (4.7 million) eastern central Asia • Major languages: Kirghiz and Russian • Religious freedom • 75% Muslim; 20% Russian Orthodox; 5% Other (Jewish, Buddhist, Catholic, Protestant) • Prayer Suggestion: Ask the Lord for wisdom as you read His Word, and it will be given to you (James 1:5).
Optional Reading: I Corinthians 8

Memory Verse for the Week: John 1:5