Bible Pathways

[Judy Harder]

Read Psalms 92 -- 100

Highlights:

The Holy Spirit leads the writer to walk and talk with God, and then tells everyone why and how to worship Him. God has made us and our God reigns. Give glory to His Name, everyone sing praise to the Lord. Praise Him for His holiness, His love, His faithfulness, and most of all for His long-suffering. Praise Him for our salvation. What a mighty and marvelous God we serve!
By the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, the psalmist invites the faithful to come, let us sing unto the Lord: let us make a joyful noise to the Rock of our salvation. . . . O come, let us worship and bow down: let us kneel before the Lord our Maker. For He is our God; and we are the people of His pasture, and the sheep of His hand (Ps. 95:1,6-7). Praying with a heartfelt attitude of gratitude and thanksgiving (95:2) is a vital part of worship. Singing joyfully carries with it the thought of expressing devotion to our Lord.

Praise to the Lord will lift worship beyond the level of personal needs to the higher plane of love and adoration as we honor the Heavenly Father, our precious Savior Jesus Christ, and the indwelling Holy Spirit. A "self-centered" person assumes the "worship" service was meant for his personal satisfaction. Consequently, we hear such people say: "I didn't get much out of the service." The reason is clear — they didn't put much into it.

Worship is not a "time" set aside for receiving personal satisfaction or for the enjoyment of a "sermon." Worship should be an active, heartfelt expression of prayer, praise, and adoration, demonstrating our esteem for our Heavenly Father and our Savior Jesus Christ. Following this, all else, including the sermon, becomes more meaningful.

Some lack spiritual fulfillment because they have decided to reflect the mood and attitude of unbelievers when confronted with adverse circumstances, such as the loss of a job, the death of a loved one, a divorce, the betrayal of a friend, or some other painful experience. By deciding to be unhappy and dissatisfied, they deprive themselves of the joy of an abundant, peaceful life. The Lord has said: The joy of the Lord is your strength (Neh. 8:10).

When we think of all our Lord has done for us, in us, and with us, and all He has promised to us for all eternity, we cannot help but decide to praise, worship, and serve the Lord with gladness: come before His presence with singing (Ps. 100:2). Our gladness will be in direct proportion to our faith in His unfailing presence and promises. For the Lord is good; His mercy is everlasting; and His truth endureth to all generations (Ps. 100:5).

Thought for Today:

When ye pray, say, Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be Thy Name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, as in heaven, so in earth (Luke 11:2).
Christ Revealed:

As the Creator: It is He that hath made us (Ps. 100:3). All things were made by Him; and without Him was not any thing made that was made (John 1:3; Eph. 3:9; Col. 1:16; Rev. 4:11).
Word Studies:

92:6 brutish =b> without regard to reason or propriety; 93:5 becometh =b> distinguishes; 94:20 throne of iniquity =b> workers of evil; frameth =b> devises; 95:7 of His hand =b> under His care; 99:3 terrible =b> holy, awesome.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Staff: Barbara Bivens • Government Official: Rep. Edward Markey (MA) • Country: Sao Tome and Principe (155,000) two larger and several smaller islands in the Gulf of Guinea, 125 miles off the western coast of Africa • Major language: Portuguese • Religious freedom is fairly new • 83% Roman Catholic; 3% Protestant; 2% animist • Prayer Suggestion: Pray that people will come to a knowledge of the Lord God (I Kings 18:36-37).
Optional Reading: I Timothy 2

Memory Verse for the Week: II Corinthians 4:8

 

[Judy Harder]

Read Psalms 101 -- 105
Highlights:

Let your spirit soar as you join King David in humility and glory, singing and worshiping God the Righteous King. The reading closes with a historical retrospect and celebration of the Exodus from Egypt.
David was inspired by the Holy Spirit to prophesy of Jesus' glorious coming kingdom reign when He will administer equal justice for all the world. Because of this, David declared: I will walk within my house with a perfect heart. I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes (Ps. 101:2-3). To maintain this attitude, David chose his friends wisely, saying: A froward (deceitful, perverted) heart shall depart from me: I will not know (have anything to do with) a wicked person (101:4). The influence of a wicked person, like a rotten apple in a barrel of apples, will infect all those who associate with him.

A few of the many reasons for praising the Lord are given in Psalm 103, but it is our loving Lord Himself who is our highest reason for praise. First, we praise Him for who He is, the all-powerful, all-wise, righteous Creator, and then for His mercy and forgiving love in cleansing us from all our sins. We also thank and praise Him because He hath not dealt with us after our sins; nor rewarded us according to our iniquities. For as the heaven is high above the earth, so great is His mercy toward them that fear Him (103:10-11).

Just think, His forgiving love toward those who fear Him is as great as the height of the heavens above the earth. Therefore, it is an act of unbelief on our part, a deception of Satan, and contrary to the nature of our loving Lord, for us to bring up former sins — either ours or those of others. Forgiven means no longer remembered, not only by God, but by us as well (I John 1:9; II Pet. 1:9). Forgiveness must not depend on our emotions, rather it is a decision that the Lord requires of us. As you begin praying, always remember to forgive anyone you feel has wronged you. When you do that, your Father will forgive your evil deeds; but, if you do not forgive others, your Father will not forgive you nor answer your prayers (Ps. 66:18).

We are reminded that unlimited forgiveness should characterize every true disciple of Christ, for He said: When ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any: that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses. But if ye do not forgive, neither will your Father . . . forgive your trespasses (Mark 11:25-26).

Thought for Today:

He spake a parable unto them to this end, that men ought always to pray, and not to faint (Luke 18:1).
Christ Revealed:

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

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

Pray for International Broadcasts in honor of Rick Hash • Staff: Al Joslyn • Government Official: Rep. Betty McCollum (MN) • 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, in faith, for God to work a miracle (II Kings 4:33-34).
Optional Reading: I Timothy 3

Memory Verse for the Week: II Corinthians 4:8

[Judy Harder]

Read Psalms 106 -- 107

Highlights:

Want to take a 40-year trip? Travel with God's people as they relive their desert wanderings. They confess their sins, including when they lusted (Ps. 106:14), murmured (106:25), mingled among the heathen (106:35), and shed innocent blood (106:38). Finally, they praise God for their deliverance (note 107:19-20). There is a refrain in vss 8,15, 21,31.
Although God had faithfully blessed Israel, miraculously delivered them from Egyptian slavery, provided the promised land, and given them victory over the Canaanites and great prosperity, they soon forgat His works; they waited not for His counsel . . . and tempted God in the desert (Ps. 106:13-14). Israel's unfaithfulness and numerous sins are brought to our attention. They made a calf in Horeb, and worshipped the molten image (vs 19); forgat God their Saviour (vs 21); despised the pleasant land, they believed not His Word (vs 24); murmured in their tents (vs 25); did not destroy the nations, concerning whom the Lord commanded them (vs 34); But (they) were mingled among the heathen, and. . . . served their idols (vss 35-36).

The psalmist then pointed out the inevitable consequences of sin: Therefore was the wrath of the Lord kindled against His people, insomuch that He abhorred His own inheritance. And He gave them into the hand of the heathen (nations); and they that hated them ruled over them (vss 40-41). But, the Lord's judgment on Israel was mingled with His mercy. When they cried unto the Lord in their trouble . . . He delivered them out of their distresses. . . . Oh that men would praise the Lord for His goodness. . . . He sent His Word, and healed them (107:6,8,20).

Note carefully that Israel's means of deliverance is the same for everyone today: He sent His Word, and healed them. The psalmist could have simply said: He delivered them out of their distresses. Instead, he chose to say: He sent His Word, and healed them. His Word is Jesus come in the flesh as well as His Written Word: In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God (John 1:1). His Written Word, when believed and acted upon, is the means God has chosen to supply and satisfy man's every need.

Oh that men would praise the Lord for His goodness, and for His wonderful works to the children of men! . . . The righteous shall see it, and rejoice. . . . Whoso is wise, and will observe these things, even they shall understand the loving-kindness of the Lord (Ps. 107:8,15,21,31,42-43).

Thought for Today:

Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man (Luke 21:36).
Christ Revealed:

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

106:20 similitude =b> likeness; 106:29 inventions =b> deeds, acts; 106:30 stayed =b> stopped, checked; 107:11 contemned =b> despised, spurned.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in honor of Linda Kennon • Staff: Gina Lesnefsky • Government Official: Rep. Rob Bishop (UT) • 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, remembering that there is no one like God (II Kings 19:14-15,19).
Optional Reading: I Timothy 4

Memory Verse for the Week: II Corinthians 4:8

 

[Judy Harder]

Read Psalms 108 -- 118

Highlights:

Picture David's mighty army as they go forth to battle singing Psalm 108! David prophetically speaks of Christ in His deity as King-Priest in Psalm 110. Let's rejoice with the psalmist in the hallelujah psalms (Ps. 111-113). Israel's God is contrasted with idols (115). I like: The Lord preserveth the simple (sincere) (116:6). Come and exalt the Messiah with us — Psalm 118 — for His mercy endureth for ever.
When Jesus Christ ascended into heaven, He fulfilled prophecy by the Holy Spirit: The Lord (God the Father) said unto my Lord (God the Son), Sit Thou at My right hand, until I make Thine enemies Thy footstool (Ps. 110:1). Jesus quoted this psalm as referring to Himself (Mark 12:36).

Israel, as a nation, rejected their Messiah King. But, the Stone (Christ) which the builders refused is become the Head Stone (Christ) of the corner. This is the Lord's doing; it is marvellous in our eyes. . . . Blessed be he that cometh in the Name of the Lord. . . . God is the Lord, which hath shewed us light. David then gives praise to God and we too can say: Thou art my God, and I will praise Thee: Thou art my God, I will exalt Thee. O give thanks unto the Lord . . . for His mercy endureth for ever (Ps. 118:22-23,26-29).

Jesus quoted this psalm, saying: What is this . . . The Stone which the builders rejected . . . is become the Head of the corner? Whosoever shall fall upon that Stone shall be broken; but on whomsoever It shall fall, It will grind him to powder (Luke 20:17-18; Mark 12:10-11).

Paul quoted this psalm when he wrote to the Ephesians: Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints (believers), and of the household of God; And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the chief Corner Stone; In whom all the building . . . groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord (Eph. 2:19-21).

After a miracle of healing, Peter, filled with the Holy Ghost (Spirit), said unto them, Ye rulers of the people, and elders of Israel . . . Be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the Name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even by Him doth this man stand here before you whole (well). Peter then quoted Psalm 118 when he said: This is the Stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the Head of the corner. Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other Name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved (Acts 4:8,10-12).

Thought for Today:

And when He was at the place, He said unto them, Pray that ye enter not into temptation (Luke 22:40).
Christ Revealed:

Christ quoted Psalm 118:22: The Stone which the builders refused (rejected) — to the chief priests and the Pharisees when they willfully rejected Him as the Messiah (Matt. 21:42-45).
Word Studies:

108:7 mete =b> measure; 109:23 declineth =b> fades away; 111:7 verity and judgment =b> truth and justice; 112:9 horn =b> strength, power; 114:8 standing =b> pool of; 116:3 compassed me =b> surrounded me, entangled me; 118:13 thrust sore at me that I might fall =b> pressed me to the point of collapse.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Officials: Rep. Patrick Kennedy (RI) and Rep. Tom Latham (IA) • 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: Pray for spiritual prosperity (I Chron. 4:9-10).
Optional Reading: I Timothy 5

Memory Verse for the Week: II Corinthians 4:8

[Judy Harder]

Read Psalms 119

Highlights:

In this psalm the Word of God is exalted. Every verse in this magnificent psalm magnifies the Word of God. In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. . . . All things were made by Him; and without Him was not any thing made that was made. In Him was Life; and the Life was the Light of men (John 1:1-4), and He (Jesus Christ) brings the Light of Understanding (the Written Word) to all who trust Him.
The purpose of the longest chapter in the Bible is to emphasize it as the only infallible Guide to Life given by our Creator. In it, God makes known everything He plans for us to be and how to accomplish the purpose for which He created us. It is equally emphasized how indispensable it is to know our Creator, Savior, and soon-coming Messiah King. The chapter opens with: Blessed (Divinely favored) are the undefiled (blameless, whose conduct is beyond reproach) in the way, who walk in the Law of the Lord. . . . and that seek Him with the whole heart (Ps. 119:1-2). The undefiled means much more than mechanically obeying rules and laws. We are specially blessed as we seek to please God with the whole heart.

Like David, all who seek God will pray: With my whole heart have I sought Thee: O let me not wander from Thy Commandments. Thy Word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against Thee (vss 10-11). It is by taking daily delight in the Word of God, as much as in all riches (vs 14), that our fellowship with the Lord is assured. The psalmist continues: I will not forget Thy Word (vs 16). This kind of forgetting is more than a momentary memory lapse. It is drifting away and neglecting the things of God by becoming so involved in other interests.

Daily we need to pray: Make me to go in the path of Thy Commandments; for therein do I delight. Incline my heart unto Thy testimonies, and not to covetousness (vss 33-35). As we do this, we have something to sing about regardless of circumstances (vs 54). The child of God can also say with the psalmist: Before I was afflicted I went astray: but now have I kept Thy Word. . . . It is good for me that I have been afflicted; that I might learn Thy Statutes (vss 67,71).

Though he had been afflicted, the psalmist did not find fault with God. For many of us, it is in times like these that we painfully recognize that our past wrong choices have led to unwholesome consequences. In such circumstances we realize that the Bible is priceless, for it alone reveals life's true values and prepares us for eternity. All who love the Lord can say: I rejoice at Thy Word, as one that findeth great spoil (Ps. 119:162).

Thought for Today:

Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered (Rom. 8:26).
Christ Revealed:

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

119:1 undefiled =b> blameless; 119:7 uprightness of heart =b> sincere intentions; 119:25 My soul cleaveth unto the dust =b> I am very discouraged; quicken thou me =b> restore my life; 119:28 melteth =b> is weary because of grief; 119:83 become like a bottle in the smoke =b> shrivel like a wineskin in the smoke.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Thursday Morning Prayer • Staff: Rita Guerra • Government Officials: Rep. Daniel Lipinski (IL), Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (FL), Rep. William (Mac) Thornberry (TX), and Sen. George Voinovich (OH) • 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: Pray and then obediently do what God says (I Chron. 14:14-16).
Optional Reading: I Timothy 6

Memory Verse for the Week: II Corinthians 4:8

[Judy Harder]

Read Psalms 120 -- 131

Highlights In Today's Reading:

Just as we pray in our hearts for help for our needs and protection from our enemies, or give joyful praise to God, these people sang these psalms as they journeyed to Jerusalem to the sacred feasts. Don't miss reading these special verses in today's reading.
The Law required all male Jews physically able and ceremonially clean to go to Jerusalem three times a year to participate in the seven Feasts (Ex. 23:14-17; Deut. 16:16). With utmost confidence in the Lord's protection on the journeys, the Israelite worshiper could sing: I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills (beyond all human dependence). . . . My help cometh from the Lord. . . . The Lord shall preserve thee from all evil . . . for evermore (Ps. 121:7-8).

The psalms were sung as they traveled toward Jerusalem to participate in the Feasts (Festivals), sacrifices, and worship. Even though some may have traveled as much as three weeks to arrive in Jerusalem, these were to be journeys of great joy. They sang with utmost assurance that the Lord would protect them on the way to Jerusalem as well as their homes and possessions during their absence: Behold, He that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep (121:4). Above all else, the psalmist proclaimed: In His Word do I hope. . . . with Him is plenteous redemption (130:5,7). We too are assured to trust in the Lord for provisions and protection, as well as for forgiveness of our sins.

David was inspired to foresee that glorious time in the future when the Messiah will reign in Jerusalem, when the kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord (Rev. 11:15).

This prophecy foretells the reign of Christ: Many people shall go and say, Come ye, and let us go . . . to the House of the God . . . and He will teach us of His ways, and we will walk in His paths: for out of Zion shall go forth the Law, and the Word of the Lord from Jerusalem (Is. 2:3). Centuries have passed since this prophecy was first given, but the day will soon arrive when Israel's throne will be occupied by Jesus Christ, the Messiah, the promised descendant of David.

Let all believers praise our loving Heavenly Father and echo the words of the Apostle Paul: Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings . . . that we should be holy and without blame before Him in love . . . by Jesus Christ. . . . In whom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins (Eph. 1:3-5,7).

Thought for Today:

What is it then? I will pray with the spirit and I will pray with the understanding also: I will sing with the spirit, and I will sing with the understanding also (I Cor. 14:15).
Christ Revealed:

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

130:3 mark =b> record; 130:4 feared =b> reverenced with awe; 131:1 exercise =b> concern; too high for me =b> far beyond me.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in honor of Bonnie Wilhite • Staff: Pam Pendergrast • Government Officials: Rep. Barbara Lee (CA), Rep. Donald Payne (NJ), Rep. Mike Rogers (AL), and Rep. Tim Ryan (OH) • 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 continually and depend on His strength (I Chron. 16:11).
Optional Reading: II Timothy 1

Memory Verse for the Week: II Corinthians 4:8

 

[Judy Harder]

Read Psalms 132 -- 138

Highlights:

Can we even count the number of times the Lord rescued David? And he never lost a war. The first five chapters in today's reading are full of trust and love for the Lord as David recalls the blessings. He then contrasts the One True God with worthless idols. Do we qualify as the Lord's peculiar (very special) treasure (Ps. 135:4; Ex. 19:5; Titus 2:14; I Pet. 2:9)? Psalm 136 is called The Great Hallel and was sung during Passover.
The psalmist reminds us of how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity! It is like the precious ointment upon the head, that ran down upon the beard, even Aaron's beard: that went down to the skirts of his garments (Ps. 133:1-2; Ex. 30:25,30; Lev. 8:12). The oil that was poured upon the head of Aaron, the first high priest, was a foreshadowing of the anointing, indwelling, and outflowing of the Holy Spirit upon believers today. It symbolized the Holy Spirit who, in love, covers as well as permeates the lives of those who have submitted themselves to Him. The same indwelling Holy Spirit lives within all true Christians (I John 2:27). Therefore, in a spirit of love, we should express our oneness without partiality, regardless of race, nationality, education, or wealth, for we are the Body of Christ (I Cor. 12:27).

The key to true unity is to let nothing be done through strife or vainglory (empty conceit, self-seeking or petty ambition); but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves (Phil. 2:3). Our fallen nature is ever prone to distort unwelcome encounters with others and our emotions can create a crisis out of unimportant incidents. Added to this, we all too often selfishly demand our own rights and blame our frustrations on others. Pride, self-will, and an independent spirit are all enemies of the Spirit-filled life. It is Christlike to accept personal offense with patience rather than to react to someone's rudeness. We need to recognize that people's bad attitudes are often momentary frustrations caused by conflicts, sorrows, sufferings, or bad news. God permits difficult people to come into our lives to give us an opportunity to express His love and patience toward them — just as our Lord has made known His love and mercy toward us.

The unity of believers can be compared to a great orchestra with many instruments creating beautiful harmony. To maintain that harmony, we each must stay in tune by following the Master Conductor. With all lowliness and meekness, with long-suffering, forbearing one another in love; Endeavouring (making every effort) to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace (Eph. 4:2-3).

Thought for Today:

I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting (I Tim. 2:.
Christ Revealed:

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

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

Pray for Country: Singapore (4 million) in Southeast Asia • Major languages: Chinese and Malay • Religious freedom • 53% 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: Humbly kneel before the Lord in prayer and worship the Lord (II Chron. 6:13).
Optional Reading: II Timothy 2

Memory Verse for the Week: II Corinthians 4:8

[Judy Harder]

Read Psalms 139 -- 143

Highlights:

Psalm 139 proclaims the universal presence and infinite knowledge of God. He knows our every thought, word, and deed. This could be any of us speaking to God. The closing prayer is one of the most needed prayers in the whole Bible. The last four psalms reflect David's heartfelt pleas for protection.
Our Creator inspired David to write: O Lord, Thou. . . . art acquainted with all my ways (from the time I was conceived to this very day). . . . Such knowledge is too wonderful for me (beyond my understanding). . . . For Thou hast possessed my reins (formed my inward spirit and heart): Thou hast covered me in my mother's womb. . . . when I was made in secret. . . . Thine eyes did see my substance . . . when as yet there was none (Ps. 139:1-16). God reveals that, at conception, David became a person, a living soul. Although, as an unborn infant, he was hidden from human view, as if buried in the earth, his body was no mystery to his Creator, who was skillfully preparing him for his God-ordained destiny on earth.

The Holy Spirit inspired the beloved physician Luke to record what the Angel Gabriel announced to the Virgin Mary: Behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call His Name JESUS (Luke 1:31). Note that the Lord Jesus Christ was announced as a Person at conception.

God also led Isaiah to prophesy concerning Christ: The Lord hath called Me from the womb; from the bowels (body, internal parts) of My mother hath He made mention of My Name. . . . in the shadow of His hand hath He hid Me. . . . And now, saith the Lord that formed Me from the womb to be His Servant. . . . I will also give Thee for a Light to the Gentiles (Is. 49:1-6).

It should be no surprise that our great Creator not only gives life but also determines that it will begin at conception. God revealed to Jeremiah: Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee, and I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations (Jer. 1:5). If the mothers of David, Isaiah, or Jeremiah had aborted them, they would have murdered great men of God. According to the world's records today it would have just shown more unnamed fetuses. But life is sacred and is given by the Creator for His own purposes.

Jesus said, Suffer (Permit) little children, and forbid them not, to come unto Me: for of such is the Kingdom of Heaven (Matt. 19:14).

Thought for Today:

Is any among you afflicted? let him pray. Is any merry? let him sing psalms (James 5:13).
Christ Revealed:

As the One who deals bountifully with us (Ps. 142:7). I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly (John 10:10; Eph. 3:20).
.Word Studies: 139:15 curiously wrought =b> skillfully fashioned; 140:5 gins =b> lures, snares; 141:7 Our bones are scattered =b> Overwhelming destruction is contemplated; 143:3 smitten =b> crushed, struck.

Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Officials: Rep. William Delahunt (MA), Rep. Harry Mitchell (AZ), Rep. Mark Souder (IN), and Sen. Mark Udall (CO) • Country: Slovakia (5 million) central Europe • Major languages: Slovak and Hungarian • Religious freedom • 60% Roman Catholic; 8% Protestant; 4% Orthodox • Prayer Suggestion: Pray and praise God for His faithfulness and mercy in keeping all His promises (II Chron. 6:14-15).
Optional Reading: II Timothy 3

Memory Verse for the Week: II Corinthians 4:9

[Judy Harder]

Read Psalms 144 -- 150

Highlights:

We open with one of David's battle songs sung by his men as he marches forth to war (Ps. 144). The second (145) may have been sung by David's soldiers after victory in battle. The last five psalms are a grand outburst of Hallelujah songs to the majesty of our Lord. God reigns; Let all Creation praise the One True Triune God; Let the angels praise God; Let the saints Praise God.
The psalmist begins and ends each of the last five psalms saying: Praise ye the Lord. . . . While I live will I praise the Lord: I will sing praises unto my God while I have any being. . . . (We) praise the Lord that we can look to Him for our needs. Happy is he that hath the God of Jacob for his help, whose hope is in the Lord his God: Which made heaven, and earth, the sea, and all that therein is. . . . Praise ye the Lord (Ps. 146:1-2,5-6,10).

The psalmist continues by saying: Praise ye the Lord. . . . He healeth the broken in heart, and bindeth up their wounds. . . . He sendeth forth His Commandment upon earth: His Word runneth very swiftly (147:1,3,15). Kings of the earth, and all people . . . Let them praise the Name of the Lord: for His Name alone is excellent (148:11,13).

As we purpose to truly put Christ first in our lives, we will experience interruptions which demand our time and attention. Even "good things" can keep us from "the best" that God would give us. The loss of "good things" may test us to see if, like Job, we can say: He knoweth the way that I take: when He hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold (Job 23:10).

The psalms reveal that nothing comes into our lives by accident. Everything God permits is to develop His highest good in us.

These psalms assure us we have a loving, Heavenly Father who desires the best for His children. To make this possible, He has provided His Word as the One True Guide that reveals how we should live to please Him. Our Lord has provided His Church as a place where we can sing praises to Him, share our testimonies with others who love Him, and receive instruction and inspiration from spiritual leaders. As Christians, we were never meant to be self-sufficient, independent loners but responsible members of His Church. Christ is the Head . . . From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted (held together) by that which every joint supplieth (Eph. 4:15-16).

The Book of Psalms concludes by proclaiming: Let every thing that hath breath praise the Lord. Praise ye the Lord (Ps. 150:6).

Thought for Today:

Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord (James 5:14).
Christ Revealed:

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

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

Pray for International Broadcasts in memory of Henry Rogers • Staff: Mike Moore • Government Official: Rep. John Campbell (CA) • Country: Slovenia (2 million) in southeastern Europe • Major languages: Slovenian and Serbo-Croatian • Freedom of religion • 81% Roman Catholic; 1% Muslim • Prayer Suggestion: Humble yourself, pray, and seek the will of God as you read His Word (II Chron. 7:14).
Optional Reading: II Timothy 4

Memory Verse for the Week: II Corinthians 4:9

 

[Judy Harder]

Read Proverbs 1 -- 3

Highlights:

The theme of Proverbs is wisdom. Compare Matthew 7:24-27. Knowledge is the ability to acquire facts and wisdom the ability to rightfully apply those facts (Prov. 2:1-6). The wise are protected and preserved (2:8; 3:5-6); in contrast, for the simple, the fools, and the scorners (1:4,7; 3:34) there's a price to pay if wisdom is rejected (1:24-28).
Solomon, along with approximately 40 other writers of the Bible, was inspired of God to record exactly what God wanted us to know in order to be the person He created us to become. Consequently, we read: Receive My (God's) words, and hide (treasure) My Commandments with thee; So that thou incline thine ear unto wisdom, and apply thine heart to understanding; Yea, if thou criest (seek) after knowledge, and liftest up thy voice for understanding; If thou seekest her as silver, and searchest for her as for hid treasures; Then shalt thou understand the fear of the Lord, and find the knowledge of God (Prov. 2:1-5).

Speaking through Solomon, God is saying: Understand righteousness, and judgment, and equity; yea, every good path. When wisdom entereth into thine heart, and knowledge is pleasant unto thy soul; Discretion shall preserve thee, understanding shall keep thee (2:9-11).

Despite the Lord's urging, some people spend little or no time reading the Bible, even though the Apostle Paul said: Study (Be diligent) to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the Word of Truth (II Tim. 2:15). Only a few ever pray for spiritual achievements so they may accomplish the purpose for which God created them. Discerning Christians will set their personal goals to seek ye first the Kingdom of God, and His righteousness (Matt. 6:33) while making all secular goals secondary. For our conversation (citizenship) is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ (Phil. 3:20).

Whom we will serve is of utmost importance, for it affects everything else in life. With the same intense energy by which many pursue worldly success, Christians should seek achievements of eternal value for the good of others and the glory of God.

One of life's most sobering thoughts is that the Son of Man shall come in the glory of His Father with His angels; and then He shall reward every man according to his works (deeds) (Matt. 16:27).

Thought for Today:

Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much (James 5:16).
Christ Revealed:

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

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

Pray for Staff: Dan Murton • Government Official: Sen. Barbara Mikulski (MD) • 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: Ask the Lord for help when you have a need (II Chron. 14:11).
Optional Reading: Titus 1

Memory Verse for the Week: II Corinthians 4:9