Bible Pathways

[Judy Harder]

November 20, 2010   

Read Romans 4 -- 7
Highlights:

Before we "do right" we have to "be right" with the Lord (Rom. 4:16-25). Faith brings joy (5:1-2). Jesus transforms us from enemies to family and friends, from death to life (5:10,17). With sin's power broken (6:1-14), we are free to obey God (6:15-23).The battle between the flesh and the spirit (7:7-25).
The more we understand the horrible suffering and death of Jesus and the glory and power of His resurrection, the more we will desire to walk in newness of life, daily expressing the life of Christ within us. For if we have been planted together in the likeness of His death, we shall be also in the likeness of His resurrection: Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with Him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin (Rom. 6:4-6).

Our Lord pays attention to everything we say, and said: A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things and . . . Every idle word that men may speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment. For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned (Matt. 12:35-37). Because of this we need to recognize the seriousness of smutty, questionable "jokes." The Word of God warns: Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifiying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers (Eph. 4:29). Note that Paul isn't saying we can't joke about last night's weather and a million other wholeseome subjects.The purpose of our conversations is to build people up.

Paul was primarily referring to improper joking concerning sexual or other other evil and questionable matters when the Holy Spirit led him to write: But fornication, and all uncleanness ,or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints; Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient: but rather giving of thanks. For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolator, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God ( 5:3-6).

It is the glorious indwelling power of His physical resurrection that not only frees us from sin's control but also daily inspires us to walk in newness of life. Followers of Christ are dead indeed unto sin. . . . Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof (Rom. 6:4,11-12).

Our old "natural" man is still capable of yielding to the sinful desires of the flesh. But, Christ has made it possible to be more than conquerors through Him (8:37).

Thought for Today:

Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof (Prov. 18:21).
Word Studies:

4:8 will not impute sin no longer regards as a sinner; 7:8 concupiscence evil desires or lust; covetousness.
Cross References:

For Rom. 4:3: See Gen. 15:6. Rom. 4:7-8: See Ps. 32:1-2. Rom. 4:17: See Gen. 17:5. Rom. 4:18: See Gen. 15:5. Rom. 7:7: See Ex. 20:17; Deut. 5:21.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Officials: Vice-President Joseph Biden, Jr., Gov. Matt Blunt (MO), and Rep. James McGovern (MA) • Country: Ireland (3.7 million) off the coast of western Europe • Major languages: English and Irish (Gaelic) • Religious freedom • 92% Catholic; 3.7% Anglican; 1% Other Protestant; .2% Muslim; .1% Jewish; 2% Other; 1% None • Prayer Suggestion: Seek God as more important than food to satisfy your hunger (Prov. 3:13-18).
Memory Verse for the Week: II Timothy 4:5

[Judy Harder]

November 21, 2010   

Read Romans 8 -- 10
Highlights:

The Spirit of life in Christ has freed us from the old sin nature and death (Rom. 8:1-17). Nothing that Satan can do can separate us from the love of God (8:31-39). Gentiles also called the children of the Living God (9:23-26,30). Whosoever shall call upon the Name of the Lord shall be saved (10:9-10,13).
When we accept Christ as Savior and Lord of our lives, we receive the spiritual nature of God and sincerely commit ourselves to a new way of life that the righteousness of the Law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh. . . . Because the carnal (fleshly) mind is enmity (hostile) against God: for it is not subject to the Law of God (Rom. 8:4-5,7). Praise God we don't have to be ruled by our carnal nature: If ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify (put to death) the deeds of the body (the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life v. I John 2:16), ye shall live (8:13).

True repentance results in a change of heart and lifestyle. This change should manifest itself in our becoming involved in sharing the Good News that JESUS . . . shall save His people from their sins (Matt. 1:21), supporting mission ministries, and involvement in a local church when physically able. Sadly, some people join a church, attend worship services, give generously, and assume that their good works are sufficient for entrance into heaven. Still more however, they may only be expressing a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof (II Tim. 3:5). God is concerned first with what we are, then with what we do for Him.

Set your affection (mind) on things above, not on things on the earth. . . . Mortify (Put to death) therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate (unnatural) affection, evil concupiscence (desire), and covetousness, which is idolatry: For which things' sake the wrath of God cometh on the children of disobedience: In the which ye also walked some time, when ye lived in them. But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy (slander and abusive statements against God), filthy (immoral) communication out of your mouth. Lie not to one another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds; And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of Him that created him (Col. 3:2,5-10).

Thought for Today:

Love not sleep lest thou come to poverty; open thine eyes, and thou shalt be satisfied with bread (Prov. 20:13).
Word Studies:

9:15 compassion grace, mercy, gentleness, loving-kindness; 10:21 gainsaying self-willed, disobedient, faultfinding.
Cross References:

For Rom. 8:36: See Ps. 44:22. Rom 9:7: See Gen. 21:12. Rom. 9:9: See Gen. 18:10. Rom. 9:12: See Gen. 25:23. Rom. 9:13: See Mal. 1:2-3. Rom. 9:15: See Ex. 33:19. Rom. 9:17: See Ex. 9:16. Rom. 9:25: See Hos. 2:23. Rom. 9:26: See Hos. 1:10. Rom. 9:27-28: See Is. 10:22-23. Rom. 9:29: See Is. 1:9. Rom. 9:33: See Is. 28:16. Rom. 10:5: See Lev. 18:5. Rom. 10:6-7: See Deut. 30:12-13. Rom. 10:8: See Deut. 30:14. Rom. 10:11: See Is. 49:23. Rom. 10:13: See Joel 2:32. Rom. 10:15: See Is. 52:7. Rom. 10:16: See Is. 53:1. Rom. 10:18: See Ps. 19:4. Rom. 10:19: See Deut. 32:21. Rom. 10:20: See Is. 65:1. Rom. 10:21: See Is. 65:2.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Officials: Gov. Phil Bredesen (TN), Rep. Yvette Clarke (NY), Sen. Richard Durbin (IL), Rep. Chaka Fattah (PA), and Rep. Tom Rooney (FL) • 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: Commit your fears to the Lord and He will give you peace (Prov. 3:24-26).
Memory Verse for the Week: I Peter 5:7

 

[Judy Harder]

Monday, November 22, 2010   

Read Romans 11 -- 13
Highlights:

The mercy of God on Israel (Rom. 11:1-24). The mercy of God for everyone (11:25-32). A living sacrifice — just think, our hands, our feet, our mouth used for the Lord (12:1-2). Do things the way God says. It's always best (12:19-21). Respect authority, obey laws of the land, pay taxes, pay debts; love fulfills all requirements of God (chap. 13).
To be a Christian is to receive a new nature — the nature of God. Ye must be born again (John 3:7). Then the indwelling Holy Spirit enables us to let Christ control our lives instead of trying to control our own lives under our old master Satan.

It is only reasonable that we should live each day demonstrating that we have been resurrected with Christ, freed from Satan's control. The Apostle Paul wrote: Present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind (and thoughts), that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God (Rom. 12:1-2).

As we read through and obey the Bible, God's Word becomes our spiritual food and our source of strength and spiritual insight to accomplish His will. Just as physical food is assimilated into our bodies to provide good health and physical strength, so the indwelling Holy Spirit strengthens our spiritual lives through His Word that we might be healthy in our spiritual lives. The Holy Spirit alone can guide you into all truth (John 16:13). However, He will not guide us into all truth if we refuse to read all truth (all the Bible) from Genesis to Revelation. We are either slaves to sin and under the influence of Satan or children of God with a desire for Him to control our lives. This is true freedom. The Word of God enlightens and then empowers us to overcome our former way of life. Know The Truth, and The Truth shall make you free (8:32).

We daily live in the midst of many voices calling for our attention. We will always be tempted to satisfy our self-serving, fleshly desires. We also need to daily be on guard against allowing "good things," or even "good people," to occupy our time and keep us from the best God has for us. Life is far too short to allow material possessions and the desire for worldly accomplishments to dominate our lives. Our opportunities to serve the Lord and to be prepared to meet Him will soon end. See then that ye walk circumspectly (with great concern for how you live), not as fools, but as wise, Redeeming the time (making the most out of every opportunity), because the days are evil (Eph. 5:15-16).

Thought for Today:

Open rebuke is better than secret love (Prov. 27:5).
Word Studies:

11:14 emulation jealousy; 12:9 dissimulation hypocrisy; 13:13 rioting and drunkeness . . . chambering and wantonness unbridled lust, immorality and indecency.
Cross References:

For Rom. 11:3: See I Kin. 19:10,14. Rom. 11:4: See I Kin. 19:18. Rom. 11:8: See Is. 29:10. Rom. 11:9-10: See Ps. 69:22-23. Rom. 11:26-27: See Is. 59:20-21; Jer. 31:33. Rom. 11:34: See Is. 40:13. Rom. 11:35: See Job 41:11. Rom. 12:19: See Deut. 32:35. Rom. 12:20: See Prov. 25:21-22. Rom. 13:9: See Ex. 20:13-17; Lev. 19:18.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in honor of Bonnie Wilhite • Staff: Mike Moore • Government Official: Gov. Bill Owens (CO) • Country: Italy (58 million) in southern Europe • Major languages: Italian and German • Religious freedom • 81% Roman Catholic; .4% Protestant; .1% Eastern Orthodox • Prayer Suggestion: Ask the Lord to help you teach His Word to your children; it will give guidance and instruction as they go through life (Prov. 6:20-23).
Memory Verse for the Week: I Peter 5:7

 

[Judy Harder]

Tuesday, November 23, 2010   

Read Romans 14 -- 16
Highlights:

Dangers of criticism; don't condemn others (Rom. chap. 14). Live in harmony, giving praise and glory to the Lord (15:1-6). Paul's ambition should also be part of ours (15:20-21). Christians in one area took up a collection for believers in need (15:26-28).
Even now, Christ makes intercession on our behalf because of our weaknesses and temptations (Heb. 7:25; Rom. 16:25-27).

Not one person in history, except Jesus, has lived without sinning. Since we do not know the hearts of anyone, we are warned: Who art thou that judgest another man's servant? to his own master he standeth or falleth. Yea, he shall be holden up: for God is able to make him stand (Rom. 14:4).

We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities (imperfections) of the weak, and not to please ourselves. Let every one of us please his neighbour for his good to edification (spiritual development). For even Christ pleased not Himself (15:1-3). The perfect example of how we are to live our lives is Jesus Christ, who unselfishly took all our sins upon Himself, suffering insult, persecution, and a cruel physical death on the cross for our sakes. His personal sacrifice demonstrated the Christian way to deal with people for their good and for the glory of God.

The "stronger" brother will willingly put aside his personal desires and lovingly consider how to strengthen his "weaker" brother without passing judgment, so as not to give Satan a foothold through a critical spirit or self-righteousness.

When we allow Christ to be Lord of our lives, it results in a sincere, compassionate concern for others, not only for a weaker brother or sister in Christ, but for the lost as well. Spiritual discernment leads us to be understanding of others and their situations. The admonition to bear the infirmities of others requires compassion on the part of mature Christians, making ourselves available to help others.

While it is true that God judges sin but makes it clear that pastors and church leaders must reprove (correct), rebuke, exhort (encourage) with all longsuffering (expressing Christ's love) and doctrine (teaching) (II Tim. 4:2), our loving Lord is also saying to those who represent Him: Be . . . merciful, as your Father also is merciful (Luke 6:36). By this shall all men know that ye are My disciples, if ye have love one to (for) another (John 13:35).

Thought for Today:

The Lord hath appeared of old unto me, saying, Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with lovingkindness have I drawn thee (Jer. 31:3).
Word Studies:

14:1 not to doubtful disputations not for passing judgment on his questionable opinions; 16:2 succourer helper, defender.
Cross References:

For Rom. 14:11: See Is. 45:23. Rom. 15:3: See Ps. 69:9. Rom. 15:9: See Ps. 18:49. Rom. 15:10: See Deut. 32:43. Rom. 15:11: See Ps. 117:1. Rom. 15:12: See Is. 11:1,10. Rom. 15:21: See Is. 52:15.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in honor of Rick Hash • Staff: Dan Murton • Government Officials: Gov. Jim Doyle (WI), Sen. Mary Landrieu (LA), Rep. Bobby Rush (IL), and Sen. Charles Schumer (NY) • 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: Diligently seek the guidance of the Lord (Prov. 8:17).
Memory Verse for the Week: I Peter 5:7

[Judy Harder]

November 24, 2010   

Read I Corinthians 1 -- 4
Highlights:

Called by God to be His (I Cor. 1:2). Stay focused on His mission (1:10-31). The "weakest" point and most "foolish" plan of God is far more powerful and wiser than men (1:23-25).This is "too" good to overlook (2:9)! God has revealed His wisdom to His people (2:10-14). Learn this Truth (3:6-7). Responsibilities of leadership (4:1-4,15-16, 20-21).
The church at Corinth was divided over who was the most spiritual leader. Paul wanted them to realize that all ministers were just servants through whom ye believed, and he wrote: Who then is Paul, and who is Apollos, but ministers by whom ye believed, even as the Lord gave to every man? (I Cor. 3:5). Christians are not to be competitors but labourers together with God (3:9).

In writing to the Romans, Paul illustrated this divisive attitude by saying: One man esteemeth one day above another: another esteemeth every day alike. Let every man be fully persuaded in his own mind (Rom. 14:5).

We are members of the Body of Christ. Our foremost concern should be that we be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment. . . . Is Christ divided? (I Cor. 1:10,13). All of us need each other, so that together we can fulfill the Lord's will in the Body of Christ through our prayers, tithes, gifts, talents, and witness to others. No one should feel either indispensable or inadequate, for all are one (3: serving the Lord.

It takes every Christian to make up the Body of Christ, which is the Church, and, without exception, everyone is needed: We being many are . . . one Body: for we are all partakers of that one Bread (10:17), and we are labourers together with God (3:9). This leaves no room for envying another person's ability or usefulness, nor for being puffed up with pride as if we had done anything of ourselves. Both jealousy and pride dishonor Christ and destroy the spirit of unity. The differences between these two are often ignored because the problems they cause are not recognized.

Still more devastating are words that impart suggestions of smut or thoughts of immoral sex. In contrast words can be a powerful healing tool when used with the love of Christ to uplift, inspire, and encourage others to be more like Jesus. Every day you can choose to make a difference and change their course of life.

It is important to recognize that Paul was not expecting uniformity of views but oneness of Spirit in the midst of differences. The wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy. And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace (James 3:17-18).

Thought for Today:

The Lord thy God in the midst of thee is mighty; He will save, He will rejoice over thee with joy, He will rest in his love, He will joy over thee with singing (Zeph. 3:17).
Word Studies:

1:21 the foolishness of preaching foolishness to unbelievers; 2:6 perfect spiritually mature; 3:1 carnal worldly; 4:5 counsels motives; 4:11 naked poorly clothed; buffeted treated with disrespect; 4:16 followers imitators; 4:18 puffed up arrogant, proud.
Cross References:

For I Cor. 1:19: See Is. 29:14. I Cor. 1:31: See Jer. 9:24. I Cor. 2:16: See Is. 40:13. I Cor. 3:19: See Job 5:13. I Cor. 3:20: See Ps. 94:11.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in memory of Iva Ann McElroy • Staff: Pam Pendergrast • Government Official: Rep. Chet Edwards (TX) • 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: Pray for national revival, for righteousness exalts a nation (Prov. 14:34).
Memory Verse for the Week: I Peter 5:7

 

[Judy Harder]

November 25, 2010   

Read I Corinthians 5 -- 9
Highlights:

Refrain from spiritual pride and open sin (I Cor. chap. 5 — 6). Power in the Blood (5:7)! Marriage "101" according to the Lord (chap. 7). Our conversation weakens or strengthens others (8:8-13), wherefore, be careful not to deprive the Lord's anointed ones of their reasonable support (9:9-14). Strive to go the distance for the Lord (9:24).
It was reported to Paul that one member of the church in Corinth was committing fornication or adultery with his father's wife (I Cor. 5:1), which seems to mean that he had an ongoing sexual relationship with his stepmother. This was also forbidden in the Old Testament Law for the nakedness of thy father's wife shalt thou not uncover (Lev. 18:. It is assumed that his father was still alive but not indicated. Paul admonished them to immediately excommunicate the offending member: In the Name of our Lord Jesus Christ . . . To deliver such an one unto Satan for the destruction of the flesh, that the spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus (I Cor. 5:4-5).

Our great concern should be not only how our lives affect our relationship with God but also, equally important, how they affect our church, families, and Christian friends. People once diligent to guard their mouths are becoming more worldly, condoning and even indulging in questionable conversation all in the name of fun. But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints; Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient: but rather giving of thanks (Eph. 5:3-4). Paul says that fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness should not be once named among you.

When leaders of a church body overlook and allow obvious ongoing sin among its members, it encourages a sinner to continue in his own sin. It also is a corrupting influence on others to follow his immoral lifestyle.

If we believe what God has said in His Word about sin, there is accountability for it. Consequently, the decision to say or do nothing, merely in the interest of "harmony," is in opposition to what the Holy Spirit led Paul to write: I have written unto you not to keep company, if any man that is called a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolater, or a railer (reviler), or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such an one no not to eat. . . . put away from among yourselves that wicked person (5:11-13). And such were some of you. The key word here is WERE because all who have truly received Christ as Savior and Lord should have forsaken their sinful thoughts and been washed . . . sanctified and justified (6:11).

Thought for Today:

Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the Kingdom of God (I Cor. 6:9-10).
Word Studies:

5:11 a railer one who is verbally abusive, a reviler; 6:9 effeminate male homosexual who takes the feminine role; abusers of themselves with mankind sodomites; 7:1 not to touch a woman not to marry; 7:5 Defraud ye not one the other to not deprive each other of marital rights; 7:12 let him not put her away let him not leave her or divorce her; 7:32 without carefulness free from anxieties.
Cross References:

For I Cor. 6:16: See Gen. 2:24. I Cor. 9:9: See Deut. 25:4.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Mr. & Mrs. Edward Mantych • Government Officials: Gov. Robert Ehrlich, Jr. (MD) and Gov. John Lynch (NH) • Country: Jordan (5 million) in southwestern Asia • Major languages: Arabic and English • Religious tolerance • 93% Muslim; 5% Christian • Prayer Suggestion: Prayer with an upright spirit and heart is a delight to God (Prov. 15:.
Memory Verse for the Week: I Peter 5:7

 

[Judy Harder]

November 26, 2010   

Read I Corinthians 10 -- 13
Highlights:

The Bible assures us of temptations. Call on God; He will provide a way to remain faithful (I Cor. 10:13). All we do should glorify God (10:31-33). The Body of Christ working together wins (chap. 12)! Love described and explained (chap. 13).
Surprising as it may seem to the world, from God's point of view it is more important to be known for your loving-kindness, thoughtfulness, and consideration of others than for being a famous evangelist, preacher, or teacher. Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity (love), I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal (I Cor. 13:1).

It is also more important to be known as one who loves, just as God loves, than for being the most prominent prophetic speaker in the world. Paul went on to describe this God-given ability to love: Though I have the gift of prophecy (forth or foretelling), and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity (love), I am nothing — worthless to God (13:2).

Charity suffereth long, and is kind (13:4). It vaunteth not itself, does not brag with inflated ideas of its own importance, meaning it does not insist on its own way and is never rude to anyone. Neither is it self-seeking, quick to take offense, or resentful. Love does not think evil of anyone. This God-kind of love is very patient — never envious or boastful.

Another dimension of love is that it doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil (13:5), meaning it is tactful, it gives love without expecting love in return, and it is willing to forgive. Love has a way of making us more concerned for the feelings and rights of others and less preoccupied with our own. The love that God gives keeps us from always trying to grab the best for ourselves or taking advantage of others.

Love also has a way of keeping us from listening to people who are anxious to pass on the latest gossip about the faults and failures of other brothers or sisters in Christ.

Love beareth all things . . . endureth all things (13:7) without getting frustrated or angry. Charity never faileth (13:, regardless of whether it is for friends, difficult people, or strangers. Every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love (I John 4:7-8).

Thought for Today:

For if ye love them which love you, what reward have ye? do not even the publicans the same? (Matt. 5:46).
Word Studies:

10:24 another's wealth the well-being of others; 10:25 shambles meat market; 11:11 man without the woman independent of; woman is essential to man; 11:13 comely proper; 12:2 dumb mute; 12:11 severally individually; 12:24 tempered united, assembled, combined; 12:25 schism division; 13:1 charity love; 13:12 now we see through a glass, darkly all we are capable of knowing now is partial and incomplete.
Cross References:

For I Cor. 10:7: See Ex. 32:6. I Cor. 10:26: See Ps. 24:1.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in memory of Audrey Hash • Staff: Barbara Bivens • Government Officials: Rep. Steve Buyer (IN) and Rep. Shelley Capito (WV) • 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: Read, study, and listen to the Word of God so that your prayers will be answered (Prov. 28:9).
Memory Verse for the Week: I Peter 5:7

 

[Judy Harder]

November 27, 2010   

Read I Corinthians 14 -- 16

Highlights:
Spiritual gifts (I Cor. 14:22-40). (1) Jesus resurrected (15:1-12); (2) First of many raised to life again (15:20); (3) Our resurrected bodies (15:38); (4) Total victory (15:54-58). Offerings for others on every Lord's Day (16:1-3).
It is a triumphant fact that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures; And that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures (I Cor. 15:3-4). For the Christian, death is not the end of life nor is it a tragedy. It is the beginning of a magnificent, eternal future in the glorious presence of our wonderful Lord. We shall all be changed, In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed (15:51-52).

Paul concluded his glorious thoughts on the return of the Lord Jesus by saying: Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord (it is always profitable) (15:58). While Paul wrote of a joyful eternity with Christ, the Apostle John wrote of the dreadful coming judgment for all unbelievers. I saw a great white throne, and Him that sat on it. . . . And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the Book of Life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works. . . . And whosoever was not found written in the Book of Life was cast into the lake of fire (Rev. 20:11-12,15).

Christians have the utmost confidence that, if the Spirit of Him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, He that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken (make alive) your mortal bodies by His Spirit that dwelleth in you (Rom. 8:11).

Our threefold purpose for living is first to become the person that God planned for us to be. Second, we need to commit to accomplishing His will for us on earth. And third, be prepared for the triumphant splendor of heaven. Concerning heaven, the words of Jesus have brought precious comfort to millions when He said: Let not your heart be troubled. . . . I go to prepare a place for you. And . . . I will come again, and receive you unto Myself (John 14:1-3).

Thought for Today:

And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold (Matt. 24:12).
Word Studies:

14:10 signification meaning; 14:11 barbarian foreigner; 14:20 in malice be ye children on doing evil, be as harmless as a baby; 14:27 by course in turn; 15:9 meet worthy, fit; 15:20 slept have died; 15:33 evil communications corrupt good manners evil companions or associations ruin or defile good character; 15:40 celestial heavenly; terrestrial earthly; 16:2 gatherings collections; 16:13 stand fast in the faith remain true to the Lord; quit you act, be courageous; 16:15 addicted devoted; 16:22 Anathema accursed; Maranatha our Lord is coming!
Cross References:

For I Cor. 14:21: See Is. 28:11-12. I Cor. 15:3-4: See Hos. 6:2. I Cor. 15:25: See Ps. 110:1. I Cor. 15:27: See Ps. 8:6. I Cor. 15:32: See Is. 22:13. I Cor. 15:45: See Gen. 2:7. I Cor. 15:54: See Is. 25:8. I Cor. 15:55: See Hos. 13:14.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Officials: Gov. Benigno Fitial (Northern Mariana Islands) and Gov. Tim Pawlenty (MN) • 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: Confess and forsake your sins that you may receive mercy (Prov. 28:13).
Memory Verse for the Week: I Peter 5:7




November 28, 2010   

Read II Corinthians 1 -- 4
Highlights:

The Lord expects us to do for others what He has done for us (II Cor. 1:3-7). Holy Spirit seals us (1:21-22). The letter (of the Law) killeth, but the Spirit giveth life (3:6). Ministry is tough; Paul says: "Don't give up" (4:1). Present troubles are short-lived, but glory with the Savior is forever (4:16-18).
Earthern vessels (clay pots) have very little value of their own. Their essential worth depends upon what they contain. If they are left empty, they have no purpose for existence. However, if they are filled with gold, their value increases dramatically. The body of a Christian is compared to an ordinary clay pot and the precious treasure it contains is Christ in you, the hope of glory (Col. 1:27). We have this treasure in earthen vessels (II Cor. 4:7) and are precious to God and responsible to Him as dispensers of His life-producing Word. Many would assume that no one had more spiritual authority than Paul, yet he wrote: Not for that we have dominion over your faith, but are helpers of your joy: for by faith ye stand (1:24). The Corinthians were responsible to God, not to Paul, just as any Christian is only responsible to God in matters of faith.

Being accountable to God includes how we respond to difficulties common to many of God's children: We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed (puzzled), but not in despair; Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed; Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest (known) in our body (4:8-10). Since the Holy Spirit dwells in every Christian and gives each of us His power to overcome, we are expected to express His characteristics during every trial and suffering. We can also face trials and suffering with the confidence that our Lord is lovingly working out what is best for our eternal good.

Trials and troubles, in whatever form, are necessary for spiritual growth; without them, we would not exercise our faith or develop spiritual insight and strength (Acts 14:22; I Pet. 1:6-7). Just as it was necessary for Jesus to die, we too must die to self-love and become willing partakers of His sufferings.

Our light affliction (trouble), which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal (temporary); but the things which are not seen are eternal (II Cor. 4:17-18).

Thought for Today:

But love ye your enemies, and do good, and lend, hoping for nothing again; and your reward shall be great, and ye shall be the children of the Highest: for He is kind unto the unthankful and to the evil (Luke 6:35).
Word Studies:

2:5 not overcharge not overstate the case or be too severe; 2:9 know the proof of you test your loyalty; 2:14 savour satisfaction, sweetness, like a lovely fragrance; 3:10 even that which was made glorious had no glory in this respect, by reason of the glory that excelleth what was glorious (Law given to Moses) has no glory in comparison to the surpassing glory of Jesus Christ; 4:15 redound abound, overflow, result in abundance..
Cross References:

For II Cor. 3:13: See Ex. 34:33-35. II Cor. 4:13: See Ps. 116:10.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Assistant to the Executive Director of the IBRA in our Washington DC Branch: Terry Hall • Government Official: Sec. Eric Shinseki (Dept. of Veternas Affairs) • 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: When you pray, be brief and pray from your heart (Eccl. 5:2).
Memory Verse for the Week: Romans 8:28

[Judy Harder]

November 29, 2010   

Read II Corinthians 5 -- 8
Highlights:

Absent from the body . . . present with the Lord (II Cor. 5:. Our life is to represent Christ and our privilege is to bring others to Him (5:18-21). We are the Temple of the Living God and are to be cleansed and separated from sin (chap. 6). Worship, dedication, humility (8:5). A call to generous giving (8:1-15).
No one would deny that we are living in a day of deception and compromise, and, unfortunately, Christians are tempted to search for satisfaction through what the world has to offer. To provide answers for this problem, Paul earnestly asked five questions that deserve our prayerful consideration because they have eternal consequences for us. Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? And what concord (harmony) hath Christ with Belial (Satan)? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel (unbeliever)? And what agreement hath the Temple of God with idols? for ye are the Temple of the Living God (II Cor. 6:14-16).

Since there is a real danger of being caught up with world views that press upon us daily, James was led to warn us that whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God (James 4:4). This is important to remember, since the believer and the unbeliever each have a different master. Any time a Christian gives way to worldly temptation, he is serving his old master. Paul was led to write: If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affection (mind and emotion) on things above, not on things on the earth (Col. 3:1-2).

The Christian's call is to come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean (morally impure) thing; and I will receive you, And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be My sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty (II Cor. 6:17-18). To come out from means, among other things, that we should avoid becoming involved with unbelieving friends or joining in activities that keep us from being our best for Christ and His Church, even though we are called to love all people as God does.

Paul went on to say: Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God (II Cor. 7:1).

Thought for Today:

No servant can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon (Luke 16:13).
Word Studies:

5:5 wrought prepared; 5:13 beside ourselves insane; sober of sound mind; 6:5 In stripes having been beaten; tumults riots; 6:6 unfeigned genuine; 6:12 Ye are not straitened in us our love toward you is not restrained; bowels emotions; 6:13 for a recompence in the same on return for our love; be ye also enlarged open your hearts to us; 7:9 that ye might receive damage by us in nothing that you not be offended in what we did or did not say; 7:10 not to be repented of without regret; 7:11 carefulness diligence, seriousness; 8:1 we do you to wit of the grace of God bestowed on me want you to know what the grace of God has accomplished in; 8:4 Praying us with much intreaty urging us to allow them the privilege; 8:7 abound excel; 8:8 forwardness earnestness.
Cross References:

For II Cor. 6:2: See Is. 49:8. II Cor. 6:16: See Lev. 26:11-12; Ezek. 37:27. II Cor. 6:17: See Is. 52:11. II Cor. 8:15: See Ex. 16:18.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in memory of Letha Hash • Executive Director of the IBRA in our Washington DC Branch: Reverend Michael Hall • Government Officials: Sec. Janet Napolitano (Dept. of Homeland Security) and Rep. Jean Schmidt (OH) • 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: Pray that God will teach you His ways and transform your life by His Word (Is. 2:3).
Memory Verse for the Week: Romans 8:28

[Judy Harder]

November 30, 2010   

Read II Corinthians 9 -- 13
Highlights:

A harvest of generosity (II Cor. chap. 9). Use the weapons of God against the Devil (10:4-6). Jesus said without Me you can do nothing of spiritual worth (see John 15:5). Guard against false teachers (II Cor. 11:1-15). Guard against pride (12:7). We are weak but God is strong (12:9). Check yourselves out regularly to be sure you're focused on Jesus (13:5).
Paul often faced rejection from hostile enemies of Christ and occasionally from believers as well. He recalled: Of the Jews five times received I forty stripes (lashes) save one. Thrice was I beaten with rods, once was I stoned, thrice I suffered shipwreck, a night and a day I have been in the deep; In journeyings often, in perils of waters, in perils of robbers, in perils by mine own countrymen, in perils by the heathen, in perils in the city, in perils in the wilderness, in perils in the sea, in perils among false brethren; In weariness and painfulness, in watchings (sleepless nights) often, in hunger and thirst, in fastings often, in cold and nakedness. Beside those things that are without (outside), that which cometh upon me daily, the care (concern) of all the churches (II Cor. 11:24-28). After Jesus called Paul and he was converted, he lived with only one purpose, to preach the Gospel in the regions beyond (10:16).

We too have the high calling to reach out in love to all people with the Good News of eternal life. Surely everyone should have the opportunity of hearing, at least once, that at death they are destined to either eternal death in the lake of fire or eternal life in heaven. Even though our lives and good works may be very commendable, our Creator Jesus Christ said: I am The Way, The Truth, and The Life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by Me (John 14:6). Have you ever seriously thought what it means for your friends or loved ones to die without being saved?

The dividing line between the sheep and the goats, the weeds and the wheat, the saved and the lost rests upon one fact; Jesus assured us that, if a man keep (obey) My saying, he shall never see (experience spiritual) death (8:51).

It is of utmost importance that we consider our priorities. Do they bring us closer to the Lord and His purpose for our lives or take us further away from Him? When the Son of Man shall come. . . . before Him shall be gathered all nations: and He shall separate them . . . as a shepherd divideth his sheep from the goats. . . . Then shall the King say unto them on His right hand, Come . . . inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world (Matt. 25:31-34).

Thought for Today:

Jesus saith unto them, If God were your Father, ye would love Me: for I proceeded forth and came from God; neither came I of Myself, but He sent Me (John 8:42).
Word Studies:

9:2 forwardness readiness; 9:5 bounty gift; 9:7 of necessity under compulsion; 9:13 experiment experience, proof, evidence; 10:13 without beyond; 11:2 espoused betrothed, engaged; 11:3 beguiled received, seduced; simplicity sincere faithfulness; 11:5 a whit behind at all inferior to; 11:6 rude in speech unskilled as an orator; 12:7 buffet discipline; 12:17 make a gain of you wake advantage of or exploit you; 12:20 swellings bride; self-assertion; 12:21 lasciviousness lustfulness; 13:6 reprobates rejected, not genuine Christians.
Cross References:

For II Cor. 9:9: See Ps. 112:9. II Cor. 10:17: See Jer. 9:24. II Cor. 13:1: See Deut. 19:15.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Dr. John A. Hash • Staff: Clarence Rathbone • Government Official: Sen. Richard Burr (NC) • 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 to make you willing to go wherever He wants to send you (Is. 6:.
Memory Verse for the Week: Romans 8:28