Bible Pathways

[Judy Harder]

June 2
Read Ezra 3 -- 5

Highlights In Today's Reading:

The work begins! Check their priorities — the altar is rebuilt and then burnt offerings (3:2-3). The foundation is finished (3:10-13) and enemies slander and complain to Darius the king (5:.
Zerubbabel and the returning Jews left the luxuries of Persia for the hardships of Jerusalem. What once had been the glorious promised land was now a heap of rubble. Houses needed to be rebuilt and the fields had not been plowed for over half a century. But spiritual needs must come first.

It may have seemed "reasonable," humanly speaking, to first build their own houses. Instead, they chose to build the Altar of the God of Israel, to offer burnt offerings thereon, as it is written in the Law of Moses (3:2). This act of faith took place about four months after the Israelites had left Babylon. The Feast of Trumpets was celebrated as required (Lev. 23:24; Ezra 3:6), and 14 days later the Feast of Tabernacles (Lev. 23:34; Ezra 3:4).

This was followed by the difficult task of laying the foundation of the Temple. After the builders laid the foundation (3:10) they sang together by course in praising and giving thanks unto the Lord (3:11). After the foundation of the Temple was laid, the priests, the trumpeters, and the Levites began praising the Lord and giving thanks.

At first the Israelites set aside self-interests until they had restored true worship; but then, as weeks became months the people of the land weakened the hands of the people of Judah, and troubled them in building. . . . and made them to cease by force and power (4:4,23).

As the people began building their own homes, the construction of the Temple ceased for about 14 years. But, once the Word and authority of God were recognized, the people again began to build the House of God (5:2). Fourteen years before, the hostile crowd made them to cease (4:23). But this time they prospered through the prophesying of Haggai the prophet and Zechariah (6:14). Listening to the Word of God by Haggai and Zechariah, they builded, and finished it (the Temple), according to the Commandment of the God of Israel (6:14).

Deciding to "serve the Lord" by no means guarantees a life free from problems. To the contrary! Satan will use his power to convince us that we cannot — at least now — finish the task we have set out to accomplish.

However, the Word of God is the source of strength by which His children cannot by force be defeated. For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds (II Cor. 10:4).

Thought for Today:

Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. . . . Above all. . . . take . . . the Sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God: Praying always . . . with all perseverance and supplication (Eph. 6:11,16-18).
Christ Revealed:

Through the great (huge) stones used in building the Temple of God (Ezra 5:. Jesus Christ is the Stone which the builders refused (rejected) and He has become the Head Stone of the Corner (Cornerstone) of our faith (Ps. 118:22; Matt. 21:42).
Word Studies:

3:3 his bases = its original foundation; 3:8 set forward oversee; 3:11 by course = by the assigned divisions of priests; 4:4 weakened the hands of = discouraged and frightened; 5:10 certify = inform.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for English International Shortwave Broadcasts sponsored by Franklin Lancaster and Nancy Golpe • Radio Sri Lanka Broadcasts sponsored by Nancy Golpe • Bible Pathway Media Producer: Rick Hash • Government Official: Rep. Michael Rogers (MI) • Country: Niger (10 million) in west-central Africa • Major languages: French and Hausa • Christian evangelism is limited • 89% Muslim; 10% animist; .4% Christian • Prayer Suggestion: Give thanks for the privilege of assembling with other Christians each week (Heb. 10:25).
Optional Reading: II Corinthians 4

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 6:31

[Judy Harder]

June 3
Read Ezra 6 -- 7

Highlights In Today's Reading:

The flesh, the devil, and the world hinder the rebuilding of the Temple, but God overrules (6:1-15). Joyously, Passover is celebrated (6:22)! Here comes Ezra, a scribe and priest (7:6). Go back many generations (I Chr. 6:3-15). Ezra is well-favored. Know why (7:10)?
There is very little recorded about the Jews in Jerusalem between the completion of the Temple and the appearance of Ezra about 60 years later. The Book of Esther, however, provides some information about the condition of the Jews in Persia who remained there from the Babylonian captivity; and the Book of Malachi provides insight into the spiritual indifference that had developed during that time in Jerusalem.

In the interval between Zerubbabel's rule and the coming of Ezra from Persia (formerly Babylon), it is no surprise that the hand of the Lord his God (was) upon him (7:6,9,28) to meet the critical spiritual corruptness that had developed in Jerusalem.

Ezra was born in Babylonian captivity — a descendant of Aaron, Israel's first high priest (7:1-5; I Chr. 6:3-15). He was also a scribe in the Law of Moses (Ezra 7:6) and had become known as a ready scribe — one who knew the Scripture so well that he was an expert teacher with a passionate desire to see the people of God living in full accord with His Word.

Not only did Ezra study the Word of God (7:6), but he had a deep desire that, being the covenant ones of God, the people recognized the necessity of obedience to obtain His blessing (7:10; 9:3-4; 10:5). Added to that, he depended upon God in prayer and fasting (8:21; 9:5-15). He also recognized the sovereignty of God and gave Him all the glory, saying: Blessed be the Lord God of our fathers, which hath put such a thing as this in the king's heart, to beautify the House of the Lord which is in Jerusalem. . . . And I was strengthened as the hand of the Lord my God was upon me, and I gathered together out of Israel chief men to go up with me (7:27-28).

The Word of God becomes our inner strength as the Holy Spirit enlightens and guides us as we read it. And, as we accept it by faith, He then enables us to teach it to others.

As we put aside self-interests, the fruit of the Spirit will show from our lives and bless others. We will have a sincere love for others and be useful to our Lord Jesus Christ. Giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity (II Pet. 1:5-7).

Thought for Today:

My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me: And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of My hand (John 10:27-28).
Christ Revealed:

Through the Feast of Unleavened (yeast-free) Bread (Ezra 6:22). Jesus is the Bread of Life (John 6:35), and He was without sin (Heb. 4:15). Leaven is symbolic of sin.
Word Studies:

6:1 house of the rolls = building where records were kept on scrolls; 6:4 king's house = royal treasury; 6:15 Adar compares with Feb/Mar; 7:21 the river = Euphrates.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Radio Sri Lanka Broadcasts sponsored by Mary Anne Weikel • Arabic, English, & Spanish International Shortwave Broadcasts sponsored by Mr. & Mrs. V.R. Stuebing Jr. • International Shortwave Broadcasts sponsored by Mrs. Ann Avant • Staff: Barbara Bivens • Government Officials: Rep. Roscoe Bartlett (MD) and Rep. Solomon Ortiz (TX) • Country: Nigeria (113.8 million) in western Africa • Major languages: English and Hausa • Government permits all types of religious activity • 45% Muslim (largely Sunni); 40% Christian; 9% Indigenous; 6% Other • Prayer Suggestion: Diligently seek the Lord in prayer and He will bless your efforts (Heb. 11:6).
Optional Reading: II Corinthians 5

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 6:31
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[Judy Harder]

June 4

Read Ezra 8 -- 9

Highlights In Today's Reading:

Ezra documents the journey. The priests are entrusted with the treasure (8:24-30,33-34). Sin revealed (9:1-2). Discover the Source of strength to stand against sin (9:6-14).
Ezra led about 1,800 men, plus their families -- a total of perhaps six thousand men, women, and children -- on the about-900-mile treacherous journey from Babylon to Jerusalem. Added to this responsibility was the concern for the priceless treasures: The silver, and the gold, and the vessels, even the offering of the House of our God, which the king, and his counsellers, and his lords, and all Israel . . . had offered (8:25). Ezra was aware of the dangerous threat of bandits who were ready to murder for their possessions or even a little food. He would also face physical and emotional hardships among his followers. So Ezra proclaimed a fast . . . that we might afflict ourselves before our God, to seek of Him a right way for us . . . our little ones, and . . . our substance. For I was ashamed to require of the king a band of soldiers (to protect us) . . . because we had spoken unto the king, saying, The hand of our God is upon all them for good that seek Him (8:21-22).

We are all under the loving care of the hand of our Father (John 10:29) and nothing can touch us except with His permission. Since this is true, outbursts of fright, complaint, or anger over our circumstances are evidences of our failure to recognize the presence and power of the Lord.

Ezra was grief stricken at the moral and spiritual condition that had developed in Jerusalem since the Temple had been rebuilt under Zerubbabel, Haggai, and Zechariah. He recorded: The people of Israel . . . have not separated themselves from the people of the lands, doing according to their abominations (Ezra 9:1). He did not give up and go home, but assembled . . . every one that trembled at the words of the God of Israel (9:4). He fell on his knees, spread out his hands to the Lord, and prayed: I am ashamed . . . for our iniquities are increased. . . . we have forsaken Thy Commandments (9:6,10).

Our sensitivity to sin is dulled when we drift away from the inspired Word of God, and it becomes much easier to follow the path of popular opinion. But, as we continue to read the Word of God, our faith becomes more firmly grounded in His promises and less affected by outward circumstances.

Our Heavenly Father protested to His prophet: My people have committed two evils; they have forsaken Me the Fountain of Living Waters, and hewed them out cisterns, broken cisterns, that can hold no water (Jer. 2:13)

Thought for Today:

Jesus said: Ye shall be hated of all men for My Name's sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved (Matt. 10:22).
Christ Portrayed:

By Ezra, who mourned over the sins of the people of Jerusalem (Ezra 9:5). Twice it is recorded that, when Jesus looked upon Jerusalem, He also mourned for the people (Luke 13:34; 19:41).
Word Studies:

8:29 chambers = storerooms; 9:3 mantle = robe; 9:7 confusion of face = shame, confessing to following God but living like the world, Come out from among them, and be ye separate (II Cor. 6:17); 9:8 a nail in His Holy Place = a secure hold on the promised land; 9:12 wealth = well-being.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for English International Shortwave Broadcasts sponsored by Lt. Col. Walter & Penelope Swanson and Mr. & Mrs. Larry Sullivan • Radio Sri Lanka Broadcasts sponsored by Nettie McKee • Staff: Al Joslyn • Government Official: Gov. Linda Lingle (HI) • Country: North Korea (22.2 million) in northeastern Asia • Major language: Korean • Violent oppression against all religions • 68% atheist; 15% Ch'ondogyo; 14% Other Traditional; 2% Buddhist; 1% Christian • Prayer Suggestion: Pray for those who are in adverse circumstances (Heb. 13:3).
Optional Reading: II Corinthians 6

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 6:31

[Judy Harder]

June 5
Read Ezra 10

Highlights In Today's Reading:

Well, we've been told our sins will find us out; they surely did here (10:1-2). The sin is marriage of holy seed (Israelites) with the idol-worshiping Canaanite. Cleansing begins (10:3-5). Transgressors are warned (10:7-8). Look how long it takes (10:16-17). Note Ezra's infamous list after he finally cleans house (10:18-44).
It had been about 60 years since the preaching of the Word of God by Haggai and Zechariah had inspired the people to rebuild the Temple (6:14-16). By now another generation and their children had grown up among the peaceful Canaanites. The sin of intermarriage with the unbelieving idol-worshiping people had become acceptable even among spiritual leaders -- the sons of the priests. . . . Also of the Levites . . . of the singers . . . and of the porters (10:18,23-24). Soon their spiritual calling and purpose for worship in the Temple would be meaningless.

Ezra called for a general assembly throughout Judah and Jerusalem unto all the children of the captivity, that they should gather themselves together unto Jerusalem. . . . all the men of Judah and Benjamin gathered themselves together unto Jerusalem within three days (10:7,9).

True to his calling as a descendant of Aaron, Ezra the priest greatly sorrowed over their sins, weeping and casting himself down before the House of God (10:1). He commanded: Make confession unto the Lord . . . and do His pleasure: and separate yourselves from the people of the land, and from the strange (Canaanite) wives who worshiped their gods (10:11). As the Israelites listened to the Word of God, the Lord brought conviction to their hearts. The offenders divorced their idol worshiping wives to avert the fierce wrath of God upon them (10:14).

All of us are prone to underestimate the eternal consequence of sin. To confess sins without intending to forsake them is self-deception. However, when we confess our sins with a determined desire to forsake them, God is ready and willing to forgive our sins, and strengthen us through His Word to live pleasing to Him (I John 1:9).

For what the Law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: 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; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit (Rom. 8:3-5).

Thought for Today:

Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? (II Cor. 6:14).
Christ Revealed:

Through the ram (male sheep) offered for the offenses of the sons of the priests (Ezra 10:19). Christ offered Himself up for the sins and offenses of all mankind. He is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by Him, seeing He ever liveth to make intercession for them (Heb. 7:25).
Word Studies:

10:1 wept very sore = wept bitterly; 10:2 strange = foreign; 10:8 substance = property; 10:13 without = outside in the rain; 10:15 were employed about = were opposed to; 10:19 gave their hands = promised, vowed.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for English International Shortwave Broadcasts in memory of Dennis Naderhoff • Radio Sri Lanka Broadcasts sponsored by Jeanette Louise Johnson • Staff: Rita Guerra • Country: Norway (4.45 million) in northern Europe • Major language: Norwegian • Religious freedom • 87.8% Evangelical Lutheran; 3.8% Other Protestant and Catholic; 3.2% None; 5.2% Other (Orthodox, Muslim, Jewish, Buddhist, Jehovah's Witness) • Prayer Suggestion: Pray to be content with and thankful for the things you have (Heb. 13:5).
Optional Reading: II Corinthians 7

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 6:31

[Judy Harder]

June 6
Read Nehemiah 1 -- 3

Highlights In Today's Reading:

Nehemiah sits weeping about the decay of Jerusalem (1:1-4). God recognizes each person that goes up to rebuild the city (2:1-8). The enemy grieved (2:9-10,19). Altar set up; foundation laid (3:1-13).
When one of Nehemiah's brothers (countrymen or relatives) Hanani returned to Persia from Jerusalem, he told Nehemiah of the pitiful conditions that existed there. When I (Nehemiah) heard these words . . . I sat down and wept, and mourned certain days, and fasted, and prayed before the God of heaven (1:4).

Nehemiah knew the Scriptures and the power of prayer and fasting, reminding the Lord of His promise: If ye transgress, I will scatter you abroad among the nations: But if ye turn unto Me, and keep My Commandments, and do them . . . yet will I gather them . . . unto the place that I have chosen to set My Name there (1:8-9).

When King Artaxerxes asked why he was so sad, Nehemiah told him that it was because the city . . . of my fathers' sepulchres, lieth waste (2:1-3). The king's remarkable blessing can be attributed to the fact that Nehemiah prayed that God would grant him mercy in the sight of this man (the king) (Neh. 1:11) and then he prayed to the God of heaven (2:4) for further direction. The king appointed Nehemiah governor of Judah and commissioned him to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem.

When Nehemiah arrived in Jerusalem, he faced hostile opposition, just as Zerubbabel had about 80 to 100 years earlier (Ezra 4; Neh. 4). Three basic characteristics of Nehemiah made his efforts a success. His foremost desire was to do the will of God (1:1,11). This led him to endure many hardships to restore honor to the City of God. He not only fasted, and prayed, but he confessed: We . . . have not kept the Commandments (1:4-11).

Nehemiah was also determined to rebuild the wall, regardless of the opposition of Sanballat and his crowd. They laughed us to scorn, and despised us (2:19). Their ridicule then turned to slander. Sanballat implied that Nehemiah would rebel against the king (2:19). False accusations have always been a favorite tool of Satan. The third characteristic that made Nehemiah successful was that he refused to become discouraged and give up even when some nobles (leaders) refused to cooperate in the work of their Lord (3:5).

Accomplishing the will of God is dependent upon remembering who we are living for. The Lord is my Helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me (Heb. 13:6).

Thought for Today:

Be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord (I Cor. 15:58).
Christ Revealed:

Through Nehemiah's prayer for his people (Neh. 1:4-11). Christ also prayed for His own throughout the ages, which includes us today (John 17:20).
Word Studies:

1:5 terrible = awesome, greatly to be feared; 2:2 countenance = face; 2:7 convey me over = allow me to pass; 2:20 no portion = no part or property; 3:19 turning = corner; 3:23 over against = in front of, opposite of; 3:25 lieth out = extends from.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Shortwave Broadcasts in honor of Linda Kennon• Staff: Tammy Davis • Government Officials: Rep. Marsha Blackburn (TN), Rep. Allen Boyd, Jr. (FL), and Rep. Eric Cantor (VA) • Country: Oman (2 million) on the southeastern coast of Arabia • Major languages: Arabic and English • Fewer restrictions on Christian activity than most of its neighbors • 97% Muslim; .5% Christian • Prayer Suggestion: Offering praise and thanks to God is a sacrifice pleasing to Him (Heb. 13:15).
Optional Reading: II Corinthians 8

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 6:31
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[Judy Harder]

June 7
Read Nehemiah 4 -- 6

Highlights In Today's Reading:

Three lessons: 1) Expect attacks designed to keep us from building walls of protection against the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life (I John 2:15-17); 2) A righteous leader defends the oppressed (Neh. 5); and 3) Stay alert and stand firm against the lies, threats, and schemes of the enemy. It takes 52 days but they win (chap. 6)!
For almost 100 years, the Jews had excused their failure to rebuild Jerusalem's walls by blaming it on opposition from their enemies. But Nehemiah assured them: The God of heaven (the One True God of Israel), He will prosper us (2:20). So built we the wall . . . for the people had a mind to work (4:6). Opposition continued, and Nehemiah utilized military strategy and quickly and decisively armed his workers, reassuring them: Our God shall fight for us. So we laboured in the work: and half of them held the spears from the rising of the morning till the stars appeared (4:20-21). Working twelve hours or more a day left little time for leisure. But they were committed to put the Lord first in their lives. So the wall was finished (6:15).

Sanballat had done all he could to sidetrack Nehemiah through ridicule (2:19; 4:1-2) and, eventually through threats (4:7-11). He made every effort to intimidate Nehemiah to "discuss" the situation (6:1-4). But Nehemiah recorded: They thought to do me mischief. And I sent messengers unto them, saying, I am doing a great work, so that I cannot come down: why should the work cease, whilst I leave it, and come down to you? (6:2-3). Sandballat even resorted to openly accusing the Jews of rebelling against the king of Persia (6:6-7). After all these years, in just 52 days the walls were restored (6:15).

Nehemiah's unreserved adherence to the Word of God and his realization of the vital importance of the destiny of the people of God inspired him to continue to work. Eleven times it is recorded that Nehemiah prayed (1:4-11; 2:4; 4:4-5,9; 5:19; 6:9,14; 13:14,22,29,31) and God answered Nehemiah's prayers.

Nehemiah's faith reminds us of David's witness to Goliath: The battle is the Lord's (I Sam. 17:47). The commitment of Christ to the Father should be our example and the desire of all believers. I seek not Mine own will, but the will of the Father which hath sent Me (John 5:30).

Thought for Today:

With God all things are possible. . . . And every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for My Name's sake, shall receive an hundredfold, and shall inherit everlasting life (Matt. 19:26,29).
Christ Portrayed:

By Nehemiah and other Jews who had bought back (redeemed) some Jews who had been sold to the heathen as slaves while in Persia (Neh. 5:. We, which He hath purchased with His own blood (Acts 20:28), were redeemed when we accepted Jesus as our Lord and Savior.
Word Studies:

4:7 breaches = broken places; 4:10 strength of the bearers of burdens is decayed = strength of the workmen is failing; 4:20 resort ye thither = assemble there; 5:3 dearth = famine; 5:7 usury = interest; 5:10 exact of them = require; 6:8 feignest = made up the story.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Shortwave Broadcasts sponsored by M. Ora Anderson • Government Officials: Rep. Ben Ray Luján (NM) and Rep. Mike Pence (IN) • Country: Pakistan (146.5 million) in southern Asia • Major languages: Urdu and English • There is no freedom to convert Muslims to Christ. Pakistan is an Islamic republic • 73% Sunni Muslim; 19% Shi'a Muslim; 3% Ahmadiya; 2% Christian; 2% Hindu; .1% Other (Baha'i, Animist, Farsi, Buddhist) • Prayer Suggestion: Ask the Lord to work in your life in whatever way pleases Him (Heb. 13:21).
Optional Reading: II Corinthians 9

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 6:33
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[Judy Harder]

June 8
Read Nehemiah 7 -- 8

Highlights In Today's Reading:

Nehemiah's ministry in Jerusalem is finished (7:1-2). The ever-important genealogy registry (7:6-66). Ezra reads the Law (8:1-8). The joy of the Lord is your strength (8:10). Why (8:12)? Surprise! Through their study, they discover a forgotten Law, the Feast of Booths (Tabernacles), and they fulfill it (8:14-18). P.T.L.
Ezra and Nehemiah had the privilege of helping the returned exiles restore the walls and finally the gates of Jerusalem. After the wall was completed under Nehemiah's supervision, thousands of Jews assembled at sunrise in Jerusalem day after day to hear Ezra and the Levites read and explain the Book of the Law -- the five books of Moses.

When Ezra read and explained the Scriptures, from the morning until midday . . . all the people were attentive unto the Book of the Law. . . . when he opened it, all the people stood up: And Ezra blessed the Lord, the great God. And all the people answered, Amen, Amen (8:3,5-6).

All the people wept, when they heard the words of the Law (8:9) followed by a marvelous revival. One purpose of the Law is to lead people to recognize their sins and repent. Repentance was followed by great gladness. Also day by day, from the first day unto the last day, he read in the Book of the Law of God (8:17-18). Hearing the Word of God resulted in a renewal of their covenant relationship with God and the restoration of true worship. Previous failures were a testimony that, without a commitment of obedience to His Word, all their efforts to rebuild would have been in vain.

The ultimate purpose of God for His people was far more than the restoration of the Temple and the walls. These material things were powerless to protect the Israelites from their enemies unless the people knew and obeyed the Word of God. Through Jesus' death on the cross for our sins, we are born again and receive His nature -- the Holy Spirit (John 1:12-13; 3:3). Only by the indwelling Holy Spirit can we accomplish the Lord's will, casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ (II Cor. 10:5). It is then that we become more than conquerers through Him that loved us (Rom. 8:37).

The most pressing need today is for Christians to become seriously concerned about reading all of the Bible. It is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart (Heb. 4:12). Almighty God speaks personally to us through His Word and, as we read, our acts of disobedience, whether by ignorance, omission, or commission, are brought to mind. This leads to conviction, confession, and cleansing. 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).

Thought for Today:

Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy (Matthew 5:7).
Christ Revealed:

Through the names required to be registered for priestly service (Neh. 7:64). Christ, our Great High Priest (Heb. 3:1), will soon return wearing His Name, King of Kings, and Lord of Lords (Rev. 19:16).
Word Studies:

7:2 feared = had reverential, heartfelt submission to; 7:3 stand by = stand on guard; watches = guards; 7:61 seed = genealogical descent; 7:65 Urim and Thummim = two objects kept in the high priest's breastplate and used to tell the Lord's will (Ex. 28:30); 8:14 booths = temporary shelters.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Shortwave Broadcasts in memory of Mrs. Annie Mae Michael • Executive Director of the IBRA in our Washington DC Branch: Reverend Michael Hall • Government Officials: Rep. Kenneth Calvert (CA) and Rep. Gabrielle Giffords (AZ) • Country: Panama (3 million) in southern Central America • Major languages: Spanish and English • Limited religious freedom • 77% Roman Catholic; 12% Protestant; 5% Muslim; .1% Eastern Orthodox • Prayer Suggestion: Ask the Lord for wisdom as you read His Word, and it will be given to you (James 1:5).
Optional Reading: II Corinthians 10

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 6:33
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[Judy Harder]

June 9
Read Nehemiah 9 -- 10

Highlights In Today's Reading:

What a wonderful worship service! Before the month is over the earlier reading of the Word of God leads the people to confession of their sins, revival, and worship (chap. 9). They renew their Covenant with God to follow His Word (9:38-10:39). Notice who signed it.
The Feast of Tabernacles lasted from the 15th day through the 21st day of Tishri (the seventh month of the Jewish religious year). On the 24th day of Tishri (September/October), the children of Israel were assembled with fasting, and. . . . separated themselves from all strangers (nonbelievers of the One True God), and stood and confessed their sins. . . . and read in the Book of the Law of the Lord their God one fourth part of the day; and another fourth part they confessed, and worshipped the Lord their God (9:1-3).

The priests revealed how God, in His manifold mercies, had provided His Good Spirit to instruct them. . . . they lacked nothing (9:19-21). Yes, it was the Holy Spirit who provided miraculous guidance (9:12,19-20). It was the Holy Spirit who anointed Bezaleel and Aholiab as skilled craftsmen to do all the work of building the Tabernacle (Ex. 35:30-35; 36:1-3). And He is the same Holy Spirit who will guide each believer as Jesus promised: When He, the Spirit of Truth, is come, He will guide you into all Truth (John 16:13). His Good Spirit indwells all true believers as Peter told the congregation on the Day of Pentecost: Repent, and be baptized . . . and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost (Spirit) (Acts 2:38). Jesus explained to His disciples: The Spirit of Truth . . . the world cannot receive, because it seeth Him not, neither knoweth Him: but ye know Him; for He dwelleth with you, and shall be in you (John 14:17). It is the Holy Spirit who imparts His gifts severally (individually) as He will (I Cor. 12:11). The Holy Spirit also reproves of sin (convicts, convinces, corrects) and guides us in righteousness (John 16:8-10), as well as into the occupation or position God has chosen for our lives, preparing us for our promised inheritance. It is of utmost importance that we fulfill the will of God and gain His best for our lives: Have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness (Eph. 5:11).

Our submission to the Word of God is essential if the Holy Spirit is to teach and guide us. Let us take heed lest we grieve . . . the Holy Spirit of God (4:30). He alone can enlighten our minds (I Cor. 2:16), impart conviction of sin, and empower us to live a sanctified, holy life (6:11).

The Spirit . . . (Himself) beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with Him, that we may be also glorified together. . . . through Him that loved us (Rom. 8:16-17,37).

Thought for Today:

Let us therefore fear, lest, a promise being left us of entering into His rest, any of you should seem to come short of it (Heb. 4:1).
Christ Revealed:

As the Creator of heaven and earth (Neh. 9:6). All things were created by Him, and for Him (Col. 1:16).
Word Studies:

9:18 wrought great provocations = committed great blasphemy; 9:22 didst divide them into corners = allotted and set boundaries; 9:25 fat = rich; 9:29 withdrew the shoulder = turned away rebelliously; hardened their neck = were stubborn, obstinate; 10:1 Tirshatha = governor; 10:28 Nethinims = Temple attendants or servants; 10:31 leave = forego the 7th year's crop.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Radio Sri Lanka Broadcasts sponsored by Mrs. Gertrude Duke • Assistant to the Executive Director of the IBRA in our Washington DC Branch: Terry Hall • Government Official: Rep. Don Young (AK) • Country: Papua New Guinea (5 million) in the southwestern Pacific • Major languages: 715 indigenous languages • Religious freedom • 64% Protestant; 33% Roman Catholic; 2% ancestor worship, belief in spirits, and witchcraft • Prayer Suggestion: Pray with unwavering faith so that your prayers may be answered (James 1:5-7).

Optional Reading: II Corinthians 11

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 6:33
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[Judy Harder]

June 10
Read Nehemiah 11 -- 12

Highlights In Today's Reading:

The Holy City, Jerusalem, the political capital of the kingdom, the city of David, the center of worship, is nearly empty. Only the leaders live there (11:1). Lots are cast to repopulate the city. See the list of "who's who" in Jerusalem (chap. 11), and the returning priests and Levites (chap. 12).
After Babylon was defeated and Cyrus encouraged the Jews to return to Jerusalem, only a comparatively few were willing to forsake personal interests to restore the city of God. The rebuilding of the walls of Jerusalem happened because ordinary people, although unskilled in building walls, willingly followed Nehemiah's leadership and did the best they could.

After the walls of Jerusalem were completed, only a few people lived inside the city. Most of the Jews lived in suburbs where they could grow crops, pasture their animals, and make a living more easily. Because of this, there were not enough people living in Jerusalem to maintain security and protect it. The rulers of the people dwelt at Jerusalem: the rest of the people also cast lots, to bring one of ten to dwell in Jerusalem the Holy City (11:1). Others volunteered to move inside the walled city.

That day they offered great sacrifices, and rejoiced: for God had made them rejoice with great joy . . . the joy of Jerusalem was heard even afar off (12:27-43).

Though all true Christians love the Lord, not all are willing to give up personal interests and financial securities to do what is needed. Laborers have always been few. So the Lord instructed us: Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that He would send forth labourers into His harvest (Luke 10:2). It is no less important for followers of Christ today to consider the walls that need to be rebuilt where worldly interests have devastated the zeal we once had for the Lord. We are reminded: Let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God (II Cor. 7:1).

Jesus gave a parable to illustrate what we need to do with our opportunities. The Kingdom of Heaven is as a man travelling into a far country, who called his own servants, and delivered unto them his goods. And unto one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one; to every man according to his several ability (Matt. 25:14-15). Upon the return of our Lord, all of us must give an account of how we spent our lives. Will we have the joy of hearing Him say: Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy Lord (25:21)?

Thought for Today:

Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? . . . in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him that loved us (Rom. 8:35,37).
Christ Portrayed:

By the priests and Levites who purified (sanctified) themselves and the people (Neh. 12:30). Christ our High Priest, through His perfect sacrifice, purified His believers by His Word. Now ye are clean through the Word which I have spoken unto you (John 15:3; 17:17).
Word Studies:

11:16 outward business = external business of the Temple; 11:24 was at the king's hand = was advisor, administrator of the king; 12:44 that waited = who officiated, ministered, kept the watches.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for English International Broadcasts in Africa, Europe, & the Middle East sponsored by Mr. & Mrs. Casmir Zuranski • English International Broadcasts sponsored by Helayne Abrams • Radio Sri Lanka Broadcasts sponsored by Rena Van Dyke • Staff: George Kopchak • Government Officials: Gov. Brad Henry (OK) and Rep. Lynn Jenkins (KS) • Country: Paraguay (5 million) in southern South America • Major languages: Spanish and Guarani • Religious freedom • 96% Roman Catholic; 2% Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: Pray in faith, without doubting (James 1:6).
Optional Reading: II Corinthians 12

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 6:33
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[Judy Harder]

June 11
Read Nehemiah 13

Highlights In Today's Reading:

It's amazing how reading the Word of God opens our eyes to see how God would have us live. The people conform to His will (13:1-3). Nehemiah brings about reform when even the priests allow sin (13:4-7,10-13,15-28,30-31). As the Temple of the Lord, we must take spiritual inventory to be sure there is no hidden sin in our hearts.
After being in Jerusalem about 12 years (5:14), Nehemiah returned to his duties in Babylon. During his absence, the Israelites neglected reading the Scriptures and, within a brief time, intermarriage with heathen idol worshipers had taken place. Work was also being done on the Sabbath and tithing was ignored. The people had lost interest in pleasing the Lord.

Even Eliashib the (high) priest . . . was allied unto Tobiah (the Ammonite) (Neh. 13:4). Eliashib provided special living quarters in the Temple compound for this enemy of God, in the rooms that were reserved for the meat offerings, the frankincense, and the vessels, and the tithes of the corn, the new wine, and the oil, which was commanded to be given to the Levites (13:5). Tobiah was the very man who had persistently opposed the work of Nehemiah many years earlier (2:10,19; 4:3-8; 6:17-19; 13:4,8). Yet Eliashib had provided Tobiah a chamber (living quarters) in the courts of the House of God (13:7).

Nehemiah obtained . . . leave of the king: And (again) . . . came to Jerusalem (13:6-7). Upon arriving in Jerusalem, this dedicated servant of God was deeply grieved on discovering that the greatest evils were being committed by those who were in the position of "spiritual" leadership. Even some of the priests had married heathen women (Ezra 10:18). Tobiah the Ammonite and his son Johanan had also married Jewish women (Neh. 6:17-19). Even one of Eliashib's grandsons was son in law to Sanballat (13:28).

Angry at the insult to God, Nehemiah cast forth (threw out) all the household stuff of Tobiah out of the chamber (13:8-9). Then Nehemiah contended . . . with the rulers (who opposed his reformation), and said, Why is the House of God forsaken? (13:11).

It is written, My House shall be called the House of Prayer; but ye have made it a den of thieves (Matt. 21:12-13; Mark 11:15-17).

Whether we are loyal or disloyal to the True King determines our eternal destiny. Every man that hath this hope in Him purifieth himself, even as He is pure (I John 3:3).

Thought for Today:

If ye keep My Commandments, ye shall abide in My love; even as I have kept My Father's Commandments, and abide in His love. These things have I spoken unto you, that My joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full (John 15:10-11).
Christ Portrayed:

By Nehemiah who cleansed the priests and Levites and defined their duties (Neh. 13:30). Christ cleanses us from all our sins when we confess them (I John 1:9). Through Him we have been made a royal priesthood to serve the Lord (I Pet. 2:9).
Word Studies:

13:17 contended with = confronted, rebuked; 13:26 outlandish = foreign idol worshiper; 13:30 strangers = idol-worshiping foreigners; wards of = duties for.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for English International Shortwave Broadcasts sponsored by Cindy Bertola • Radio Sri Lanka Broadcasts sponsored by Mrs. Marilyn E. Stump • Staff: Benjamin Wallace • Government Officials: Rep. Michael Arcuri (NY), Rep. Mike Conoway (TX), and Rep. Charles Rangel (NY) • Country: Peru (26 million) on the western coast of South America • Major languages: Spanish and Quechua • Open to evangelism and Bible distribution • 90% Christian; 8% non-Religious/Other; 1.2% Traditional ethnic; .3% Buddhist; .09% Baha'i; .02% Jewish • Prayer Suggestion: Pray for grace to overcome temptation, and God will reward you (James 1:12).
Optional Reading: II Corinthians 13

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 6:33
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