Bible Pathways

[Judy Harder]

December 1, 2010   

Read Galatians 1 -- 3
Highlights:

The greatest news in history — there is only one Gospel that calls us into the grace of Christ (Gal. 1:6-9)! The Lord sent Peter to Jews, Paul to Gentiles (2:. We are not justified by the works of the Law. But did you know justification is by faith in Jesus Christ, that we might live unto God (2:16-21; Matt. 5:16; John 6:36)? Christ liveth in me (Gal. 2:19-20).
This letter, inspired by God, reveals among other important truths, two fundamental facts: (1) Though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other Gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed (Gal. 1:; and (2) there is but one way, for Jews and Gentiles, to be assured of eternal life. We can only be justified (declared righteous) by the faith of Christ, and not by the works of the Law: for by the works of the Law shall no flesh (no one) be justified (2:16). There is none righteous, no, not one . . . For all have sinned. . . . to Israel He saith, All day long I have stretched forth My hands unto a disobedient and gainsaying people (Rom. 3:10,23; 10:21). Our Lord Jesus Christ . . . gave Himself for our sins, that He might deliver us from this present evil world, according to the will of God (Gal. 1:3-4).

The full meaning of the grace of God was revealed when God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life (John 3:16). Jesus, the only begotten (sinless) Son of God, took our place and died on the cross that we might be delivered from our sins. Without His death for our sins, no one can be righteous. But because of His loving-kindness (grace) toward us, we can be born again (3:5) and become the sons of God (1:12), soon to enter heaven to be with Him.

Because of our sinful nature, no one has the ability to keep all of the Law of God (James 2:10). Christ hath redeemed us from the curse (the righteous penalty of death) of the Law, being made a curse (undergoing death on the cross, the appointed penalty of the curse) for us (Gal. 3:13). These facts should make us recognize our great need of a Savior.

As sons and daughters of faith, we are led and empowered by the indwelling Holy Spirit to be the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ. . . . And if ye be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise (Gal. 3:26-29)

Thought for Today:

Christ will soon return to rule the world as King of kings: To whom be glory for ever and ever (Gal. 1:5).
Cross References:

For Gal. 3:6: See Gen. 15:6. Gal. 3:8: See Gen. 12: 3; 22:18. Gal. 3:10: See Deut. 27:26. Gal. 3:11: See Hab. 2:4. Gal. 3:12: See Lev. 18:5. Gal. 3:13: See Deut. 21:23.
Word Studies:

1:13 conversation daily behavior, attitude of life; 2:13 dissimulation insincerity, hypocrisy, and pretense.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for our Military Worldwide • International Broadcasts sponsored by Mary Hoffmeyer • Staff: Dr. John A. Hash • Government Official: Rep. Gary Peters (MI) • Country: Laos (5 million) in Southeast Asia • Major languages: Lao and French • Great suppression of all Christian activities • 58% Buddhist; 33% belief in spirits and ancestor worship; 2% Christian; 1% Muslim • Prayer Suggestion: Pray with a heart of righteousness, keeping the truth of God, and know He will hear your prayers (Is. 26:2).
Memory Verse for the Week: Romans 8:28

 

[Judy Harder]

December 2, 2010   

Read Galatians 4 -- 6
Highlights:

No more a servant, but a son . . . an heir . . . through Christ (Gal. 4:1-7). Live in freedom through Jesus (5:1, 5-6,13-14). The indwelling Spirit of God produces fruit (5:22-23).
The Apostle Paul recorded seventeen sins: Now the works of the flesh are manifest (evident), which are these; Adultery (homosexuality, beastiality, pornography, and all the sex sins that defile), fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness (sensuality), Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance (discord), emulations (jealousy), wrath, strife, seditions (dissensions), heresies, Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like (such like includes vile affections listed in Rom. 1:26-31): of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the Kingdom of God (Gal. 5:19-21).

However, the works of the flesh also include everything that defiles our mind, such as sexually explicit magazines, television programs, pornography, sexual predators, immoral jokes, and evil thoughts.

Idolatry could include money, an occupation, a person, a personal pleasure, or a habit. Though some of these are not evil in themselves, if they occupy the time and loyalty which only God deserves, they could be an idol to us. Often overlooked is witchcraft, which includes horoscopes, palm reading, hypnotism, seances, and other acts of the occult.

Also on the list are hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies (5:20). Strife and seditions include rivalry and discord, while envyings include jealousy and attitudes of the heart (Mark 7:20-23).

Even though this list sounds hopeless the Holy Spirit fills our hearts with hope when He says: And such were some of you: But ye are washed (forgiven) . . . sanctified (set apart for His service) . . . justified in the Name of the Lord Jesus (I Cor. 6:11).

For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of His good pleasure. . . . That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world (Phil. 2:13-15).

We can give thanks to God that they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts (Gal. 5:24). We are no longer enslaved by the works of the flesh, but are endowed with the Holy Spirit and can bear His fruit, which is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance (Gal. 5:22-23). We can thank God for His long-suffering and mercy.

Thought for Today:

If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness (I John 1:9). P.T.L.
Cross References:

For Gal. 4:27: See Is. 54:1. Gal. 4:30: See Gen. 21:10. Gal. 5:14: See Lev. 19:18.
Word Studies:

4:4 made under the Law born of a woman as a subject to the Law; 4:6 Abba aramaic word for Father; 4:12 injured wronged, taken advantage of; 4:24 gendereth to reads to; 4:25 answereth corresponds; 5:19 uncleanness immoral conduct; lasciviousness immodesty, vulgarity, unrestrained lust; 5:20 variance contentious temper, strife; emulations jealousy, rivalry; seditions dissentions, divisions; 6:6 communicate unto whare in the financial needs of; 6:12 constrain compel.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Mr. Carl E. Miller • Bible Pathway Media Producer: Rick Hash • Government Officials: Sen. Harry Reid (NV) and Rep. Carol Shea-Porter (NH) • Country: Latvia (2.48 million) eastern coast of Baltic Sea in northeastern Europe • Major languages: Latvian and Russian • Religious freedom • 20% Protestant (mainly Lutheran); 20% Roman Catholic; 15% Orthodox; .9% Jewish; .4% Muslim; 43.7% Atheist/Agnostics/Other • Prayer Suggestion: Keep your mind on the Lord and trust Him; He will give you peace (Is. 26:3).
Memory Verse for the Week: Romans 8:28

[Judy Harder]

December 3, 2010   

Read Ephesians 1 -- 3
Highlights:

Since we became believers in Jesus Christ our Savior (John 14:6) we are showered with the loving-kindness of God (Eph. 1:3-8). We all . . . were by nature the children of wrath. . . . But God . . . loved us . . . through Christ Jesus. (Eph. 2:3-4,7). We are strengthened by His Spirit (3:16).
The God who created all mankind has chosen us to be His children. In fact, He hath chosen us in Him before the foundation (beginning) of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before Him. . . . In whom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace (Eph. 1:4,7). No person can cheat us out of what God has planned for our lives. We alone are responsible to daily read and study His Word with a desire to do His will. We can confidently pray and depend upon the Holy Spirit to guide our lives, for we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them (2:10).

Before Christ came to earth, only the Jews had a Covenant relationship with God. Paul explained to the Ephesians: At that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the Covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world. But now in Christ Jesus ye . . . are made nigh by the blood of Christ. For He is our peace (2:12-14). Jews and Gentiles alike who receive Christ as their Savior and Lord now have a Covenant relationship with God through the New Testament sealed with Christ's blood (Matt. 26:28; Mark 14:24; Luke 22:20; I Cor. 11:25). Through Him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father (Eph. 2:18).

In A.D. 70, God used the Roman general Titus to destroy the Temple, the Brazen Altar of Sacrifice, and the functions of the High Priest. All these merely foreshadowed Jesus, the Messiah, who is the Way, the Truth, and the Life (John 14:6). We . . . have boldness and access with confidence by the faith of Him (Eph. 3:12).

Is it any surprise that Satan will seek to keep us busy, even doing "good" things, in his effort to make our prayers ineffective by distracting us from reading and obeying the Word of God? Because of our love for the Lord, we should look forward to a daily dialog of prayer (talking to God) and reading His Word (God talking to us).

I pray that Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, May be able to . . . know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God (Eph. 3:17-19).

Thought for Today:

God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward His Name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister (Heb. 6:10).
Cross References:

For Eph. 1:22: See Ps. 8:6. Eph. 2:17: See Is. 57:19.
Word Studies:

1:8 prudence spiritual insight, knowledge and holy love of the will of God; 1:10 dispensation of the fulness of times last period of the dealings of God with mankind on earth; 1:13 sealed proof of ownership that we belong to the Family of God; 1:14 earnest first installment of our inheritance; 2:1 quickened made alive; 2:13 sometimes formerly (not "occasionally"); 3:3 mystery surpose of God which is hidden from the ungodly; 3:13 faint not won't give up or be discouraged.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Mrs. Priscilla C. Wilcox • Government Officials: Rep. Stephanie Herseth (SD) and Rep. Eddie Bernice Johnson (TX) • Country: Lebanon (4.3 million) in the Middle East • Major languages: Arabic and French • Limited religious freedom • 55% Muslim (Shi'a, Sunni); 41% Christian (Maronite, Orthodox, Melchite, Protestant, Chaldean, Assyrian, Syriac); 3% Druze; 1% Others (Jewish, Baha'i, Alawi, Jehovah's Witness) • Prayer Suggestion: Cry and pour out your soul in prayer in time of affliction (Is. 26:16).
Memory Verse for the Week: Romans 8:28

[Judy Harder]

December 4, 2010   

Read Ephesians 4 -- 6
Highlights:

As children of God, we need to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace (Eph. 4:3) to grow up into Him (4:15). We need the whole Armour of God (6:10-18).
When we let the love of Christ flow through us, we manifest His loving-kindness to everyone without discrimination. We overcome all thoughts of resentment, He forgives us without exception, and we can enjoy His bountiful blessings. Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice (Eph. 4:31). Rather, be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you (4:32).

Wrath and anger are often demonstrated in an outburst of abusive language as a reaction against someone who disagrees with our views and actions. Sadly, when some people are offended they are also unwilling to forgive. Even more serious is the sin of slander (malicious report) which is one of the seven sins that God hates the most (Prov. 6:16-19).

The presence of any of these evils destroys our peace of mind, grieves the Holy Spirit, and affects our relationship with God. However, as we allow the Holy Spirit to rule our hearts and lives, the fruit of the Holy Spirit — love, patience, gentleness, and kindness — will be manifest and feelings of anger will vanish.

Instead of having thoughts of bitterness, revenge, and anger, we need to see difficult situations as opportunities to pray for those who wrong us. Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you (Matt. 5:44). Consider Stephen, who prayed while he was being stoned to death. He kneeled down, and cried with a loud voice, Lord, lay not this sin to their charge (Acts 7:60).

Every Christian is a representative of the Lord Jesus Christ. Each is responsible to respond with the love of Jesus toward all who — by their words, attitudes, or actions — may be unlovely. It is of utmost importance that we recognize how serious this is, as explained by Jesus in His parable when He states the consequences of an unforgiving person: Delivered him to his tormentors (Matt: 18:21-35). Christ is the Head of His Body the Church and we are that Body. It is under His direction that the whole Body is fitted together perfectly to work in harmony: Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect (mature) man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ (Eph. 4:12-13).

Thought for Today:

We must appropriate the exceeding greatness of His power to usward who believe, according to the working of His mighty power, Which He wrought in Christ, when He raised Him from the dead (Eph. 1:19-20).
Cross References:

For Eph. 4:8: See Ps. 68:18. Eph. 4:25: See Zech. 8:16. Eph. 4:26: See Ps. 4:4. Eph. 5:31: See Gen. 2:24. Eph. 6:2-3: See Ex. 20:12; Deut. 5:16.
Word Studies:

4:13 perfect (does not mean perfection) sincerely desiring to be obedient to His Word; 4:14 carried about . . . by the sleight led astray by false doctrine; 4:16 compacted knit together in true unity; 4:18 blindness hardening of their heart with no regard to repent of their sins or see the need to be saved; 4:22 former conversation old sinful way of living; 5:18 filled with controlled by; 5:26 sanctify set apart to serve the Lord; 6:5 in singleness of your heart, as unto Christ with no ulterior motive but sincere desire to please Christ; 6:11 wiles deception; 6:14 having your loins girt about with truth continuing to read through all the Bible in order to be familiar with the will of God.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in memory of Iva Ann McElroy • Government Official: Rep. Grace Napolitano (CA) • Country: Lesotho (2 million) within the east-central part of the Republic of South Africa • Major languages: Sesotho and English • Limited religious freedom • 43% Roman Catholic; 30% Protestant; 6% ancestor worship, divination, and spirit-possession cults • Prayer Suggestion: Pray and praise God that the answers to your prayers are granted through the grace of God (Is. 30:19).

Memory Verse for the Week: Romans 8:28

 

[Judy Harder]

December 5, 2010   

Read Philippians 1 -- 4

Highlights:

Expressions of Christlike love. In lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves (Phil. 2:3). We are encouraged to: Rejoice. . . . by prayer . . . with thanksgiving . . . and with the peace of God (4:1-8).
Near the city of Philippi, Paul went to a place of prayer by a river side, where prayer was wont to be made. Among others, he met Lydia, a businesswoman from Thyatira, who was saved along with a few others. The Apostle Paul founded the first Christian church in Europe at Philippi. It was here that Paul and Silas were scourged and put in prison for preaching the Gospel (Acts 16:13-24). At a later date, as a missionary prisoner at Rome, Paul wrote this letter (which we know as the Book of Philippians) to the new converts.

Paul's imprisonment gave him the opportunity to share the Good News about Jesus with the elite guard of the Roman Empire. There was a change of guard three or four times a day, which was a great opportunity to tell many about Jesus the Messiah, who was foretold in the Hebrew Scriptures. He wrote: The things which happened unto me have fallen (turned) out rather unto the furtherance of the Gospel; So that my bonds in Christ are manifest (known) in all the palace (military headquarters), and in all other places (Phil. 1:12-13).

Paul encouraged the church to hold forth the Word of Life; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither laboured in vain (2:16). Our occupation in life may be in politics, the military, business, education, manual labor, or homemaking, but our primary concern should always be that we live our lives and share the Gospel so that we have not run in vain, neither laboured in vain.

We all have a natural desire for physical comforts, security, and material things. However, our first consideration and loyalty should be to Christ. There is a storehouse of spiritual wealth and peace in Him that surpasses all earthly possessions.

Paul had renounced a prominent religious and political career in Jerusalem for a life of unceasing hardship and persecution that was destined to end in a violent death by the enemies of Christ. Knowing what the future held, he said: According to my earnest expectation and my hope . . . Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether it be by life, or by death. For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain (1:20-21). We too should be able to say with Paul: I count all things but loss for the excellency (superiority) of the knowledge of (a personal relationship with) Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung (worthless rubbish), that I may win (approval of) Christ (Phil. 3:.

Thought for Today:

Happy is he that hath the God of Jacob for his help, whose hope is in the Lord his God (Ps. 146:5).
Cross References:

For Phil. 2:7: See Is. 42:1.
Word Studies:

1:7 meet right; 1:8 my record by witness; bowels affections; 1:14 waxing confident faining confidence; 1:22 wot know; 1:23 in a strait betwixt two hard pressed between the two; 1:28 an evident token of perdition evidence of impending destruction; 2:3 vainglory boasting, empty conceit; 2:22 the proof of him his trials have proven his sincerity; 3:1 not grievous I never get tired of telling you; 3:2 dogs sudaizers, antagonists, legalists; 3:20 conversation citizenship; 4:6 Be careful for nothing won't be anxious; don't worry; 4:14 communicate with express your concern, share; 4:18 I have all I am fully satisfied; 4:22 chiefly especially.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Official: Rep. Rodney Alexander (LA) • Country: Liberia (3 million) in West Africa • Major languages: English and more than 20 local languages of the Niger-Congo language group • Religious freedom • 41% ancestor worship and witchcraft; 21% Muslim; 13% Protestant; 2% Roman Catholic • Prayer Suggestion: Give praise to God that His Word will stand forever (Is. 40:.

Memory Verse for the Week: II Chronicles 7:14

 

[Judy Harder]

December 6, 2010   

Read Colossians 1 -- 4
Highlights:

Christ is Supreme (Col. 1:15-20). Were enemies but now friends (1:21-22). Paul instructed to reveal the mystery which hath been hid from . . . generations (1:26). Dead in . . . sins, alive in Christ (chap. 2). Live the new life in Christ (3:1-17). What is a Christian household (3:18-25)? We are encouraged to: Continue in prayer (4:1-4).
As we continue reading the Word of God with a desire to please Him in all of our decisions, the Holy Spirit guides us into a deeper revelation of Himself and His ways. Unlimited understanding, strength, and endurance are made available to every Christian. Christ alone, through His Word, can reveal and meet all of our spiritual needs. To help us grasp the importance of this, the Holy Spirit led Paul to write: We . . . do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God; Strengthened with all might, according to His glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness; Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet (qualified) to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints (believers) (Col. 1:9-12). Notice how often the word all is used — all wisdom . . . all pleasing . . . all might. . . all patience, which means that the Lord is sufficient to meet every need.

What follows is the practical expression of the new life in Christ for all believers. Buried with Him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with Him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised Him from the dead. And you, being dead in your sins and the uncircumcision of your flesh, hath He quickened (made alive) together with Him, having forgiven you all trespasses (2:12-13).

As evidence of this new life as Christians, Paul encouraged the new believers to mortify (treat as dead) therefore your members (physical nature) which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness (sexual immorality), inordinate affection (lust), evil concupiscence (desire), and covetousness, which is idolatry: For which things' sake the wrath of God cometh on the children of disobedience (3:5-6).

The key to fulfilling the will of God is letting the Word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom. . . . And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the Name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by Him (Col. 3:16-17).

Thought for Today:

Therefore we are buried with Him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life (Rom. 6:4).
Cross References:

For Col. 2:11: See Deut. 10:16. Col. 3:23: See Eccl. 9:10. Col. 4:6: See Eccl. 10:12.
Word Studies:

1:12 meet sufficient; 1:13 translated transferred; 1:23 settled firmly grounded; 2:4 beguile receive; 2:23 will worship self-inspired efforts at worship; 3:5 Mortify breat as dead; concupiscence uncontrolled desire for what is forbidden, especially sexual immorality; 3:22 singleness of heart sincerity, honesty, not hypocritical or self-seeking; fearing God but of reverence for your Lord; 4:1 give . . . that which is just and equal to what is right and fair.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Vincent & Rebecca Naugton • Staff: Jennifer Cunningham • Government Official: Sec. Ray LaHood (Dept. of Transportation) • Country: Libya (5 million) in North Africa • Major languages: Arabic and Italian • No form of Christian witness to Libyans is permitted • 98% Muslim; 2% Christian • Prayer Suggestion: Wait upon the Lord and He will renew your strength (Is. 40:31).
Memory Verse for the Week: II Chronicles 7:14

 

[Judy Harder]

December 7, 2010   




Read I Thessalonians 1 -- 5
Highlights:

Our Gospel came not . . . in Word only, but also in power. . . . And ye became followers . . . of the Lord, having received the Word in much affliction, with joy of the Holy Ghost (Spirit) (I Thess. 1:5-6). We are children of Light; be ready for the Day of the Lord (5:4-5,11). It is of utmost importance to know them which . . . are over you in the Lord, and admonish you; And to esteem them very highly in love for their work's sake. And be at peace among yourselves (5:12-13). We, and all we possess, do belong to Jesus (5:18).
The return of Christ will be the greatest event in history since His ascension when, while they beheld, He was taken up; and a cloud received Him out of their sight (Acts 1:9). Prior to His ascension, Jesus had assured His disciples: I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there ye may be also (John 14:2-3). His return was also confirmed at the time of His ascension by two angelic witnesses from heaven: This same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen Him go into heaven (Acts 1:11).

There are no words to adequately describe the glorious return of our Lord Jesus Christ who will make all things in perfect peace (Is. 26:3). All of history is reduced to just two ages: the present age that began with Adam, and the age to come. You know perfectly (full well) that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night (I Thess. 5:2). We are moving toward the appointed day of the Lord. This is the joyous anticipation of every Christian who is faithfully preparing and waiting for the triumphant return of our Redeemer.

The certainty of the believer's eternal life with Christ is assured on the physical resurrection of Jesus Christ (I Cor. 15:20-23). The Apostle Paul wrote: If we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep (die) in Jesus will God bring with Him. For this we say unto you by the Word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent (precede) them which are asleep (have died). For the Lord Himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. Wherefore comfort (encourage) one another with these words (I Thess. 4:14-18).

Because of the assurance of Christ's return, we are encouraged to comfort yourselves together, and edify one another (I Thess. 5:11).

Thought for Today:

In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you (I Thess. 5:18).
Cross References:

For I Thess. 5:4: See Is. 35:4.
Word Studies:

2:2 entreated mistreated, suffering outrageously; 2:9 chargeable a burden; 3:8 fast firm; 4:4 possess his vessel control his body; 4:8 despiseth rejects; 5:14 unruly disorderly.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Mr. & Mrs. Casmir A. Zuranski • Government Officials: Rep. Paul Broun (GA), Sen. Thad Cochran (MS), Sen. Susan Collins (ME), and Rep. Duncan Hunter (CA) • Country: Liechtenstein (32,000) in western Europe • Major languages: German and Alemannic dialect • Religious freedom • 87% Roman Catholic; 12% Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: Pray and depend upon the Lord when in need for He will not forsake you (Is. 41:17).
Memory Verse for the Week: II Chronicles 7:14

 

[Judy Harder]

December 8, 2010   

Read II Thessalonians 1 -- 3
Highlights:

Jesus is coming! Prepare to meet your Creator (II Thess. 1:3-12). Knowing your Bible is of utmost importance to recognize the difference between false claims and true (2:2-12). Stand firm; our comfort, hope, and strength are in the Lord (2:16-17). Occupy until Jesus comes (Luke 19:13). This means doing our Father's business (2:49; II Thess. 3:6-15).
The majority of mankind are blindly rushing toward the eternal lake of fire, ignoring the Word and will of God. But you who are troubled rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with His mighty angels, In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ: Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of His power; When He shall come to be glorified in His saints, and to be admired in all them that believe (because our testimony among you was believed) (II Thess. 1:7-10).

To be sure, as Jesus said, there is a broad . . . way, that leadeth to destruction. . . . Not every one that saith unto Me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the Kingdom of Heaven; but he that doeth the will of My Father (Matt. 7:13,21).

Many have their hearts set on worldly activities and goals with little, if any, concern that they are ignoring the plan of God for their lives. That is why the Word of God states: Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. . . . For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world (I John 2:15-16). All who dedicate their lives to Christ shall hear Him say: Come . . . inherit the Kingdom prepared for you (Matt. 25:34). And every man that hath this hope in Him purifieth himself, even as He is pure (I John 3:3).

It was Jesus Himself who revealed the final destination of all who refuse to allow Him to rule their lives: Depart from Me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the Devil and his angels (Matt. 25:41). One chooses in this life to be present with God in heaven or to ignore Christ who died to save them from eternal hell. When Jesus returns to the earth, every eye shall see Him! Jesus will be: (1) Glorified in His saints, and (2) admired (adored) in all them that believe (II Thess. 1:10). What a glorious future for each of us who choose to live for Jesus!

We pray always for you, that our God would count you worthy of this calling . . . That the Name of our Lord Jesus Christ may be glorified in you, and ye in Him . . . (II Thess. 1:11-12).

Thought for Today:

Be not weary in well doing. . . . Now the Lord of Peace Himself give you peace always (II Thess. 3:13,16).
Cross References:

For II Thess. 1:8 See Is. 1:28. II Thess. 2:3: See Dan. 7:25. II Thess. 2:4: See Ezek. 28:2.
Word Studies:

1:3 meet sitting, right; 2:17 stablish strengthen, make firm; 3:7 disorderly irresponsibly.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Mr. & Mrs. V.R. Stuebing, Jr. • Staff: Beth Carlton • Country: Lithuania (4 million) eastern coast of Baltic Sea in northeastern Europe • Major languages: Lithuanian and Russian • Limited religious freedom • 80% Roman Catholic; 5% Russian Orthodox; 1% Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: Amidst uncertainty, seek the guidance of God (Is. 42:16).
Memory Verse for the Week: II Chronicles 7:14

[Judy Harder]

December 9, 2010   

Read I Timothy 1 -- 6
Highlights:

Truth. All Christians need to take this seriously (I Tim. 1:8-10). There is One God and One Mediator between God and men, the Man Christ Jesus (2:5). We are the Church of the Living God (3:15). You can't go wrong when you keep this Commandment without spot (6:14).
The Roman emperor Nero was ruthlessly persecuting Christians and condemning many of them to death. Yet, Paul emphasized the importance of Christians praying for those who are in authority. He wrote: I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty (I Tim. 2:1-2). The Bible reminds us that: The king's heart is in the hand of the Lord, as the rivers of water: He turneth it withersoever He will (Prov. 21:1). Only eternity will reveal what impact our prayers will have.

Christians should faithfully witness to the truth as revealed by Christ in His Word, even when speaking the truth could mean imprisonment or death. While many shall turn away their ears from the Truth, we must remain faithful in all things, endure afflictions (II Tim. 4:4-5; see also Matt. 10:28). The number of those suffering affliction (James 5:10) and being martyred for their faith in Christ continues to grow in many countries.

The Apostle Peter emphasized the responsibility of Christians being law-abiding citizens, writing: Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake: whether it be to the king, as supreme; Or unto governors, as unto them that are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers, and for the praise of them that do well (I Pet. 2:13-14).

Luke recorded the one exception because it reveals our highest authority. Peter was willing to defend his faith in Christ when he was confronted by the religious Jewish Sanhedrin who warned him that he should not teach in this Name and, behold, ye have filled Jerusalem with your doctrine, and intend to bring this Man's blood upon us. Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men (Acts 5:28-29).

We ourselves also were sometimes foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving divers lusts (enslaved to various self-centered desires) . . . living in malice and envy, hateful, and hating one another (Titus 3:3,5).

Thought for Today:

He that saith he abideth in Him ought himself also so to walk, even as He walked (I John 2:6).
Cross Reference:

For I Tim. 5:18: See Deut. 25:4.
Word Studies:

1:5 unfeigned genuine; without hypocrisy; 1:10 menstealers kidnappers, people who enslave (control) others for their own evil purposes; 2:9 shamefacedness modest behavior, reverence; 2:12 usurp authority comineer; 3:2 husband of one wife married only once until parted by death; vigilant disciplined, self-controlled: 3:8 greedy of filthy lucre craving wealth; 3:13 purchase to themselves a good degree fain a good reputation; 5:11 wax wanton against Christ follow their passions to draw them away from Christ; 6:4 questions and strifes of words controversial, contentious speculations, attacking the authority and reliability of Scripture.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Mrs. Ann M. Kelley • Government Officials: Rep. Mary Fallin (OK), Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (NY), Rep. Pete Olson (TX), and Rep. Ciro Rodrigues (TX) • Country: Luxembourg (429,000) in western Europe • Major languages: Luxembourgish and German • Religious freedom • 84% Roman Catholic; 2% Protestant; .1% Eastern Orthodox • Prayer Suggestion: Seek the Lord in prayer, turn from your sinful ways, and God will have mercy and pardon for you (Is. 55:6-7).
Memory Verse for the Week: II Chronicles 7:14

[Judy Harder]

December 10, 2010   

Read II Timothy 1 -- 4
Highlights:

Be not thou . . . ashamed of the testimony of our Lord . . . but be thou encouraged to be a faithful partaker of the afflictions of the Gospel (II Tim. 1:. Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness (2:22). For men shall be . . . covetous . . . more than lovers of God (3:1-4). All The Bible is given as our Guide to gain the best out of our lives (3:16-17).
Paul reminds Timothy that his mother and grandmother had faithfully taught him that the holy Scriptures . . . are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. He encouraged Timothy to remember that: All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, (lack nothing) throughly furnished (equipped) unto all good works (II Tim. 3:15-17). This can only mean that God expects us to read all Scripture.

To say the words: "Every Scripture that is inspired," becomes an act of questioning the wisdom of God. Such a statement is not in harmony with biblical doctrine. The Apostle Paul wrote: But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached . . . let him be accursed. . . . If any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed (Gal. 1:8-9). Beginning at Moses (the first five Books of the Bible) and all the prophets, He (Jesus) expounded unto them in all the Scriptures the things concerning Himself (Luke 24:27; comp. 24:44). Jesus never once implied that some Scripture was inspired and other portions were not inspired. All Scripture obviously means every verse in the Bible. This fact is of vital importance. Both the Old and New Testaments warn against adding to or taking from the inspired Word of God (Deut. 4:2; Prov. 30:6; Rev. 22:18-19).

We are to preach (teach) the Word . . . in season, and out of season (II Tim. 4:2). Nothing is as essential as knowing the Word of God. There are no options or alternatives which can replace it.

Paul also spoke of some: Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof (3:5). Their doctrine may be correct, but it has no genuine effect upon their heart, thoughts or conduct. All Scripture is . . . profitable for discipline in righteousness, giving direction for growing in grace. This means all Scripture teaches us to be all that God would have us to be in order to fulfill His perfect will for our lives. Surely the Holy Spirit is still saying: Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the Word of Truth (II Tim. 2:15).

Thought for Today:

Happy is the man that feareth alway: but he that hardeneth his heart shall fall into mischief (Prov. 28:14).
Cross Reference:

For II Tim. 2:19: See Num. 16:5; also Nah. 1:7.
Word Studies:

2:4 entangleth himself becomes involved; 2:23 gender strifes create or beget quarrels; 3:3 incontinent without self-control; 4:15 be thou ware be aware, be on guard.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Mr. & Mrs. Jack Schatz • Staff: Rita Guerra • Government Officials: Rep. John Boozman (AR), Rep. Kathy Dahlkemper (PA, and and Rep. Luis Gutierrez (IL) • Country: Macedonia (2 million) in southeastern Europe • Major languages: Macedonian and Albanian • strongly Orthodox country • 67% Macedonian Orthodox; 23% Muslim; 3% Catholic; 2% Protestant; 5% Other • Prayer Suggestion: Pray and call upon the Lord with assurance that He will answer if you pray with a godly spirit free from sin (Is. 58:9-11).
Memory Verse for the Week: II Chronicles 7:14