Bible Pathways

[Judy Harder]

December 11, 2010   

Read Titus 1 -- Philemon 1
Highlights:

Witness and live your faith with enthusiasm (Titus chap. 1—2). Qualifications of elders and bishops (1:5-9). Sound doctrine for the aged men . . . the aged women. . . . the young men, and the servants (2:1-9). The coming of our great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ (2:13-14). Speak evil of no man . . . but be gentle (3:2). A beautiful portrayal of a sinner facing God with Christ the Intercessor (Philem. 1:1-25).
The churches on the island of Crete needed spiritual leadership. Paul left Titus in Crete to set in order what was lacking, and instructed him to ordain elders in every city. Such men were to be blameless (above reproach), the husband of one wife (married but once), having faithful (believing) children. . . . For a bishop must be blameless, as the steward (manager) of God; not selfwilled, not soon angry, not given to wine, no striker (not violent), not given to filthy lucre (not greedy for financial gain); But a lover of hospitality . . . sober, just, holy, temperate (disciplined); Holding fast the faithful Word . . . that he may be able by sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers (opposition) (Titus 1:6-9).

The Church belongs to Christ and is His Body on earth. Therefore, the spiritual leaders must be blameless in their personal and family lives.

Paul gave instructions that older men and women should teach the younger men and women to forsake evil passions and worldly ambitions, and to live honorably before the Lord. The grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly (sensibly), righteously, and godly, in this present world; Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; Who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from all iniquity (lawlessness), and purify unto Himself a peculiar (special) people, zealous of good works (2:11-14). Christ's death upon the cross redeemed us from all iniquity; set us apart — purified unto Himself a peculiar people (special possession); and called us to be zealous of good works.

Although Paul was imprisoned by the Roman Empire, he knew who really had control of his life and simply identified himself as a prisoner of Jesus Christ (Philem. 1:1). In his letter to Philemon he expressed the same attitude of gratitude. I thank my God, making mention of thee always in my prayers, Hearing of thy love and faith, which thou hast toward the Lord Jesus, and toward all saints (Philem. 1:4-5).

Thought for Today:

We are more than conquerors through Him that loved us (Rom. 8:37).
Cross References:

For Titus 1:2: See Num. 23:19.
Word Studies:

Titus 1:14 Jewish fables myths; 2:10 purloining stealing, even small things; Philemon 1:8 enjoin to order you to do that which is proper; 1:12 mine own bowels but of my very heart.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in honor of Linda Kennon • Government Officials: Sen. Max Baucus (MT) and Sen. John Kerry (MA) • Country: Madagascar (15 million) an island in the Indian Ocean off the coast of Mozambique • Major languages: French and Malagasy • Increasingly anti-Christian • 43% witchcraft, ancestor worship, and some astrology; 21% Protestant; 21% Roman Catholic; 2% Muslim • Prayer Suggestion: Confess and forsake all sin (Is. 59:12-13).

Memory Verse for the Week: II Chronicles 7:14

[Judy Harder]

December 12, 2010   

Read Hebrews 1 -- 4
Highlights:

Jesus, the Son and Heir, is greater than the angels (Heb. chap. 1). Jesus, the Man (2:17; 3:6), overcame all temptations (4:15). Jesus is greater than Moses (chap. 3). Jesus, the Word, cuts deeply and truly (4:12; see John 1:1-5). Jesus provides His mercy and grace every day (4:16).
It was angels who delivered Lot out of Sodom (Gen. 19:1-26); angels ministered to Jesus following His 40-day fast (Matt. 4:11); and an angel delivered Peter from prison (Acts 12:7-11). And for us today angels are ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation (Heb. 1:14). Just think! That includes those of us today who are heirs of salvation!

While God has His angels who minister to us, Satan has his fallen angels (demons) who do his bidding. And Paul warned us: Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light (II Cor. 11:14). John recorded: Believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God (I John 4:1). Even when it seems that Satan has devastated our lives, remember that God created and rules the universe. In His own way, He directs the works of Satan to further His ultimate will for each one of us.

The importance of angels does not compare to the superiority of Christ. For unto which of the angels said He at any time, Thou art My Son? (1:5). Yet, despite His eternal superiority as Creator of angels and because of His great love for us, Jesus willingly was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death . . . that He by the grace of God should taste death for every man. For it became (was proper for) Him, for whom are all things, and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons unto glory, to make the Captain (Author, Source) of their salvation perfect through sufferings. . . . For verily (truly) He took not on Him the nature of angels; but He took on Him the seed (offspring) of Abraham. Wherefore in all things it behoved (was best for) Him to be made like unto His brethren, that He might be a merciful and faithful High Priest . . . to make reconciliation for the sins of the people (2:9-10,16-17).

It is of utmost importance that we do not worship angels, as some do today. Angels are created beings and we are to worship the Creator, not the creation. The Apostle John records in Revelation: When I had heard and seen, I fell down to worship before the feet of the angel which shewed me these things. Then saith he unto me, See thou do it not: for I am thy fellowservant . . . worship God (Rev. 22:8-9).

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).
Cross References:

For Heb. 1:3: See Ps. 110:1. Heb. 1:5: See Ps. 2:7; II Sam. 7:14. Heb. 1:6: See Ps. 97:7. Heb. 1:7: See Ps. 104:4. Heb. 1:8-9: See Ps. 45:6-7. Heb. 1:10-12: See Ps. 102:25-27. Heb. 1:13: See Ps. 110:1. Heb. 2:6-8: See Ps. 8:4-6. Heb. 2:12: See Ps. 22:22. Heb. 2:13: See Is. 8:18. Heb. 3:7-11: See Ps. 95:7-11. Heb. 4:3: See Ps. 95:11. Heb. 4:4: See Gen. 2:2.
Word Studies:

Heb. 2:17 behoved as necessary for, was imperative for; 4:8 Jesus the Lord Jesus Christ, but Joshua. Jesus is the Greek word of the Hebrew Joshua. Joshua could not provide complete peace in their "promised land" because of their unbelief. Israelites in that day had to look forward to heaven for their perfect peace, just as Christians do today; 4:12 quick living.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Officials: Rep. Steve Kagen (WI), Rep. Joe Sestak (PA), and Sec. Tom Vilsack (Dept. of Agriculture) • Country: Malawi (10 million) in southeastern Africa • Major languages: English and Chichewa • Religious freedom • 34% Protestant; 23% Roman Catholic; 16% Muslim; 16% animist; 4% cults • Prayer Suggestion: Pray and rejoice in the Lord for all His spiritual blessings (Is. 61:10).

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 2:21

[Judy Harder]

 December 13, 2010   

Read Hebrews 5 -- 7
Highlights:

Jesus chosen by God to be our High Priest (Heb. 5:1-10). He (Jesus) became the Author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey Him (5:9; Rom. 6:23).
How thankful we are that mercy is an attribute of God, for it is one of our greatest daily needs. Mercy is an expression of His desire to forgive sinners and deliver them from eternal hell. Mercy involves love and is a practical demonstration of compassion.

Because God is also holy, He must enforce the penalty for sin without respect of persons (I Pet. 1:17), and the wages of sin is death (Rom. 6:23). In the Old Testament, a sinless (unblemished) lamb took the place of an Israelite and was slain for his sin (Lev. 4:32). The devout Jew was continually reminded that the life of the flesh is in the blood: and . . . it is the blood that maketh an atonement for the soul (17:11). A blood sacrifice was required because taking the blood was taking the life, thus paying the wages of sin. But the need for numerous sacrifices ceased in the New Testament. For such an High Priest became us, who is holy, harmless, undefiled, separate from sinners, and made higher than the heavens (Heb. 7:26). Jesus, who had no sin, could die for our sins. He died on the cross for our sins and became the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world (John 1:29).

He became the Author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey Him (Heb. 5:9). 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). By His own blood He entered in once into the Holy Place, having obtained eternal redemption for us. For if the blood of bulls and of goats . . . sanctifieth . . . the flesh: How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered Himself without spot (defect) to God, purge (cleanse) your conscience from dead works to serve the living God? (Heb. 9:12-14).

It is the forgiving mercy of God that gives a Christian assurance of a continued relationship with Him, even though we so often fail to be all that we should be and rightly deserve His judgment. In turn, the true believer will express mercy in his relationships with others because the Spirit of God dwells in his heart. He has assured us in His Word: Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy (Matt. 5:7).

Put on therefore, as the elect (chosen) of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies (heartfelt compassion), kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another . . . even as Christ forgave you (Col. 3:12-13).

Thought for Today:

He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy (Prov. 28:13).
Cross References:

For Heb. 5:5: See Ps. 2:7. Heb. 5:6: See Ps. 110:4. Heb. 6:14: See Gen. 22:17.
Word Studies:

6:17 immutability of His counsel his purpose will not be altered.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Mrs. Judith Anne Ross • Staff: Ilene Wallace • Government Official: Rep. Anna Eshoo (CA) • Country: Malaysia (22.7 million) in Southeast Asia • Major languages: Malay and English • All Christian witness to Muslims is illegal • 58% Muslim; 23% Buddhist/Taoist/Chinese; 8% Christian; 6% Hindu; 5% Sikh/Animist/Other • Prayer Suggestion: Pray persistently (Is. 62:6).

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 2:21

 

[Judy Harder]

December 14, 2010   

Read Hebrews 8 -- 10
Highlights:

Jesus seated with highest honor (Heb. 8:1-2). Jesus Christ, the Mediator of a better Covenant, which was established upon better promises (8:6). For this is the Covenant that I will make . . . I will put My Laws in their mind, and write them in their hearts (8:10). The just shall live by faith (10:38).
The Tabernacle and worship system for Israel were revealed by God to Moses on Mount Sinai. The system of worship consisted of numerous sacrifices which could not cleanse from sins but could only "cover" them temporarily until Jesus died on the cross. Every detail of this complex worship system was symbolic of the future single sacrifice of Christ on the cross. The Lord Jesus Christ replaced Israel's many priests as well as the high priest and all of the sacrificial worship system. God foretold through His prophet of a future Covenant: I will make a New Covenant with the house of Israel, and with the house of Judah (Jer. 31:31; comp. Heb. 8:6-13).

Under the Old Covenant (Testament) worship system, the blood of goats and calves (9:12,19), which were innocent animals, was sacrificed daily for worshipers' sins. Under the New Covenant Christ shed His own blood and entered into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God for us (9:24).

The Holy Spirit led the writer of Hebrews to reveal that the Old Covenant had looked forward to a greater and more perfect Tabernacle (9:11). The words more perfect Tabernacle refer to the bodily manifestation of God the Son, since the Tabernacle's contents, as well as the Tabernacle itself, symbolized Christ, His life, ministry, and death, as did all of the sacrifices. Animal sacrifices are no longer acceptable because Christ being come an High Priest of good things to come, by a greater and more perfect Tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building; Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by His own blood He entered in once into the Holy Place, having obtained eternal redemption for us (9:11-12).

As we publicly confess our faith, we acknowledge that we have renounced the world and its lust of the flesh, and . . . of the eyes, and the pride of life (I John 2:15-17) Our confession shows we remain loyal to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, who has done so much for us. God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us (Rom. 5:.

Thought for Today:

If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the Spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part He is evil spoken of, but on your part He is glorified (I Pet. 4:14).
Cross References:

For Heb. 8:5: See Ex. 25:40. Heb. 8:8-12: See Jer. 31:31-34. Heb. 9:20-21: See Ex. 24:8. Heb. 10:5-7: See Ps. 40:6-8. Heb. 10:12-13: See Ps. 110:1. Heb. 10:16-17: See Jer. 31:33-34. Heb. 10:30: See Deut. 32:35-36. Heb. 10:37-38: See Hab. 2:3-4.
Word Studies:

8:10 New Covenant I will . . . write them in their hearts, in contrast to the Old Covenant — written in stone; 9:2 candlestick lampstand; 10:33 gazingstock object of public ridicule; 10:36 patience steadfast endurance, trust; 10:39 perdition state of being eternally lost.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Iva Jo Swinburg • Staff: Benjamin Wallace • Country: Maldives (300,000) 400 miles southwest of Sri Lanka • Major languages: Divehi and English • Christian witnessing is banned • 99.9% Muslim; .1% Christian • Prayer Suggestion: Remember that God hears and answers our prayers (Is. 65:24).
Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 2:21

[Judy Harder]

December 15, 2010   

Read Hebrews 11 -- 13
Highlights:

What faith is, what it does, and how you develop it (Heb. 11; Rom. 10:17). Like a faithful parent, the Lord disciplines His children (Heb. 12:5-13); so listen and obey when He speaks (12:14-29), because He is the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever (13: — never out of date.
The history of the people of God confirms that some endured hostile circumstances and suffering intensely, yet remained faithful and fulfilled His will. In the "Heroes of Faith Hall of Fame" (Heb. 11:1-38), we are given a review of some of them. By faith Abraham, when he was tried (tested), offered up Isaac . . . Accounting that God was able to raise him up, even from the dead; from whence also he received him in a figure. . . . By faith Moses . . . refused to be called the son of Pharaoh's daughter; Choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season; Esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt (11:17-26). The Old Testament men and women listed in this chapter chose to remain faithful to God, regardless of discouraging circumstances, suffering, opposition, and even family members who hindered them.

This reminds us of how much more our Savior has made Himself available to us by the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. Surely, we too, by His enabling strength, can lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and . . . run with patience (endurance) the race that is set before us (12:1). The runners who win the race of life are looking unto Jesus the Author and Finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising (thinking little of) the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God (12:2). Every born-again Christian will enter into the Kingdom of God (John 3:3-5). To follow Christ and live the Christian life demands self-denial, discipline, and wholehearted love for the Lord and His Word. These characteristics distinguish the true Christian from the self-indulgence practiced by the world. We must decide for ourselves, by a prayerful reading of the Scriptures and self-examination, if there are worldly hindrances to our spiritual lives that need to be dealt with and eliminated.

The race of which Paul writes is a life of faithfulness and obedience. Jesus said to them all, If any man will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me (Luke 9:23).

Thought for Today:

Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice. Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand (Phil. 4:4-5).
Cross References:

For Heb. 11:18: See Gen. 21:12. Heb. 12:5-6: See Prov. 3:11-12. Heb. 12:12: See Is. 35:3. Heb. 12:26: See Hag. 2:6. Heb. 13:5: See Josh. 1:5; also Deut. 31:8. Heb. 13:6: See Ps. 118:6.
Word Studies:

11:29 assaying attempting; 13:9 divers various.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by A Family That Loves Jesus • Staff: Linda Kennon • Government Official: Gov. Kathleen Babineaux Blanco (LA) and Sen. Mark Warner (VA) • Country: Mali (10 million) in West Africa • Major languages: French and Bambara • Religious freedom despite Muslim majority • 81% Muslim; 17% animism and spirit worship; 2% Christian • Prayer Suggestion: Humble yourself and reverence the Word of God; He will look upon you with affection (Is. 66:2).
Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 2:21

[Judy Harder]

 December 16, 2010   

Read James 1 -- 5

Highlights:

God is no respecter of persons. He treats everyone, rich or poor, as equals — sinners that need to be saved (James 2:1-9; Acts 10:34). The key to bridle(ing) the whole body (3:2) is the tongue (3:1-12). Envying and strife are earthly, sensual, devilish (3:14-15). Resist the devil and he will flee from you (4:7). Real treasure. The importance of patience: For the coming of the Lord (5:1-8). Prayer is powerful when you qualify (5:13-18): He that turneth away his ear . . . even his prayer shall be abomination (Prov. 28:9)
Some of us are inclined to tell others about all our sufferings and sorrows with a "woe is me" attitude of despair, hoping to receive sympathy from our listeners. Others are prone to blame anyone, even God, for their problems. James may surprise you because the Holy Spirit moved him to write: My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations (manifold trials); Knowing this, that the trying (testing) of your faith worketh (develops) patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire (complete), wanting (lacking) nothing (James 1:2-4).

Furthermore, James reminds us: Blessed is the man that endureth temptation (remains faithful): for when he is tried (approved), he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love Him. Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with (by) evil, neither tempteth He any man (1:12-13). But trials can be used by the Lord as a great benefit in the lives of all who remain teachable and faithful. The fact is the trial of your faith, being (is) much more precious (has greater value) than of gold (I Pet. 1:7).

All of us need to be reminded: Resist the Devil and he will flee from you. Draw nigh (near) to God, and He will draw nigh to you (James 4:7-8). Pity the poor soul who believes that it is the Devil who is responsible and has a free hand in giving us a "hard time." All trials and assaults by Satan will cease when we "resist" him. This should prompt us to praise the Lord.

As Christians, we possess the whole armour of God so that ye may be able to stand against the wiles (schemes, deception) of the Devil (Eph. 6:11). To teach us how to withstand the Devil during our trials, the Holy Spirit led Paul to write words of encouragement to us: Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. . . . and the Sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God (Eph. 6:16-17). However, it is of utmost importance that we put on the whole armour of God (Eph. 6:11).

Thought for Today:

Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in Thy presence is fulness of joy; at Thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore (Ps. 16:11).
Cross References:

For James 2:8: See Lev. 19:18. James 2:11: See Ex. 20:13-14. James 2:23: See Gen. 15:6. James 4:6: See Prov. 3:34.
Word Studies:

1:27 visit care for, look after the needs of; 2:11 kill murder; 3:2 we offend all we all make mistakes and offend others; 3:4 listeth determines; 5:3 cankered tarnished; 5:11 pitiful full of compassion.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Charlotte Hall • Government Officials: Gov. Don Carcieri (RI), Rep. Norman Dicks (WA), Gov. Jim Gibbons (NV), and Rep. C.W. Young (FL) • Country: Malta (388,000) about 60 miles south of Sicily • Major languages: Maltese and English • Religious freedom • 97% Christian; 1.7% non-Religious/other; 1% Muslim • Prayer Suggestion: Seek God in prayer with your whole heart and He will hear you (Jer. 29:12-13).
Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 2:21

[Judy Harder]

December 17, 2010   

Read I Peter 1 -- 2
Highlights:

Comfort and reassurance in the trial of your faith (I Pet. 1:1-25). Seeing ye have obeyed the Truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren . . . Being born again . . . by the Word of God (1:22-23; comp. James 1:18). Submit to the laws of your government (2:13-15).
Peter referred to Christians as elect (chosen by God) . . . through sanctification of the Spirit, unto obedience and sprinkling of the blood of Jesus Christ (I Pet. 1:2). "Sprinkling" alludes to the blood which was sprinkled on the Brazen Altar symbolizing the people's obedience to God, as well symbolizing His acceptance of them (Ex. 24:1-11).

As Christians, we look forward to an inheritance incorruptible (imperishable), and undefiled . . . reserved in heaven for you, Who are kept (protected) by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time (I Pet. 1:4-5). Since we are given such a promise, Peter urged that as strangers and pilgrims (whose lifetime on earth is limited) we should abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul (2:11).

Peter continued to remind us of the importance of living a holy life: As obedient children, not fashioning (conforming) yourselves according to the former lusts in your ignorance: But as He which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation (behavior). . . . Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit . . . see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently: Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the Word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever (1:14-15,22-23).

Since the Bible is our one complete source of guidance and strength, Peter urged believers: As newborn babes (new converts), desire the sincere (perfect) milk (spiritual food) of the Word, that ye may grow thereby (2:2). Peter points out that the nourishment of the Word is essential if we are to live as obedient children (1:14). Our desire to know the Bible in order to do the Lord's will is always in our best interest. Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit explains how surrender to the Lord's authority and the power of His Word transforms lives. Peter describes Christians as a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ (2:5). Each of us is a sacred temple for the indwelling Holy Spirit. That is why we are called a peculiar people (chosen to represent God) that we should shew forth the praises of Him who hath called you out of darkness into His marvellous light (I Pet. 2:9).

Thought for Today:

Desire the sincere milk of the Word that ye may grow (mature) thereby (I Pet. 2:2).
Cross References:

For I Pet. 1:16: See Lev. 11:44-45. I Pet. 1:24-25: See Is. 40:6-8. I Pet. 2:6-7: See Is. 28:16; Ps. 118:22. I Pet. 2:22: See Is. 53:9. I Pet. 2:24-25: See Is. 53:4-6,12.
Word Studies:

1:17 sojourning temporarily residing; 2:2 sincere perfect, pure, without a mixture; 2:4 disallowed rejected; 2:19 thankworthy acceptable, something we should give thanks for.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Lt. Col. and Mrs. Walter W. Swanson • Staff: Jannah Kennon • Country: Mauritania (2.6 million) in western Africa • Major language: Hasaniya Arabic • Islamic state with no mission work allowed • 99+% Muslim (predominantly Sunni); .2% Christian (predominantly foreigners) • Prayer Suggestion: Know that the Lord is loving and merciful to His children (Jer. 31:9).
Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 2:21

[Judy Harder]

December 18, 2010   

Read I Peter 3 -- 5
Highlights:

A believer's lifestyle should be a testimony of what Jesus is like (I Pet. 3:1-5), so treat each other as joint heirs (3:7). Be good stewards of the grace of God (4:1-11). Rejoice that we are partakers of Christ's sufferings (4:12-19). Pray for Church leaders to feed and strengthen the flock (5:1-11).
There is just One True and Complete Source of spiritual knowledge and strength. The Holy Spirit led the Apostle Peter to write: If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles (utterances) of God; if any man minister (serve), let him do it as of the ability which God giveth: that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever (I Pet. 4:11). In contrast to the Word of God are the opinions and traditions of mere men. We must not modify or ignore the only Guide to Life that God has given as the standard by which we must live.

The last recorded words that Jesus spoke personally to Peter were on the shores of the Sea of Galilee, when He asked three times: Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou Me? . . . Peter was grieved because He said unto him the third time, Lovest thou Me? And he said unto Him, Lord . . . Thou knowest that I love Thee. Jesus saith unto him, Feed My sheep (John 21:15-17). Feed indicated the Lord had need for Peter to provide Biblical nourishment to His sheep. Peter fulfilled that commission by passing the Word along to all of us. Caring for, defending, and guiding are needed by and for believers; but feed My sheep means to teach them all of the Word of God, from Genesis through Revelation. The Word of God has the power to change a person. All of us can be involved. Some write, edit, and print, while others support the distribution of the teaching ministries for Jesus, who also commands us: Feed My sheep.

The underlying principle of most worldly endeavors is: "How much is in it for me?" This spirit of greed, pride, and power permeates self-serving ambition. Because the Word of God is alive and never changes, the message the Holy Spirit led the Apostle Paul to write to Timothy is still applicable to us today: Before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick (living) and the dead at His appearing and His Kingdom; Preach the Word; be instant (ready) in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort (encourage) with all longsuffering (patience) and doctrine (teaching) (II Tim. 4:1-2). The Lord is not slack concerning His promise . . . not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance (II Pet. 3:9).

Thought for Today:

Be glad in the Lord, and rejoice, ye righteous: and shout for joy, all ye that are upright in heart (Ps. 32:11).
Cross References:

For I Pet. 3:10-12: See Ps. 34:12-16. I Pet. 5:5: See Prov. 3:34.
Word Studies:

3:11 eschew turn away from; ensue earnestly pursue; 3:20 were saved by water were saved from the water by entering the ark (that illustrates Christ); 4:15 busybody one who interferes in other people's affairs that do not concern him.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Official: Rep. Bill Posey (FL) • Country: Mauritius (1 million) 500 miles east of Madagascar • Major languages: English and Creole • Limited religious freedom • 50% Hindu; 27% Roman Catholic; 17% Muslim; 5% Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: Express your gratitude for the loving-kindness of God (Jer. 32:17-18).
Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 2:21

[Judy Harder]

December 19, 2010

Read II Peter 1 -- 3

Highlights:

Don't forget the promise of a glorious life in Jesus in contrast to life in a sinful world (II Pet. 1:3-12). The Holy Spirit gave the prophecy that Jesus is coming (1:16-21). Don't believe everyone; false prophets and teachers are everywhere (2:1-22).
This second letter begins with one significant thought: God . . . hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him that hath called us to glory and virtue (II Pet. 1:2-3). The Holy Spirit led Peter to reveal how a life of godliness is made possible by appropriating the exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust (covetousness). And beside this, giving all diligence (make every effort), add to your faith virtue (moral excellence); and to virtue knowledge; And to knowledge temperance (self-control); and to temperance patience (patient endurance); and to patience godliness; And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity (Christian love). For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. But he that lacketh these things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged (cleansed) from his old sins (II Pet. 1:4-9).

Spiritual maturity is a growing process for our entire life and is dependent on our laying hold of the equipping of the Holy Spirit through His Word.

God is concerned for His children's moral and spiritual health. Whatever in their lives is contrary to this brings about His loving discipline and correction. His holiness and His wrath against sin are inseparable. For if we would judge ourselves, we should not be judged. But when we are judged, we are chastened of the Lord, that we should not be condemned with the world (I Cor. 11:31-32).

God has given us the freedom to choose to let His judgment work for us or against us. Beloved, seeing ye know these things before, beware lest ye also, being led away with the error of the wicked, fall from your own stedfastness. But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be glory both now and for ever. Amen (II Pet. 3:17-18).

Thought for Today:

So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom (Ps. 90:12).
Cross Reference:

For II Pet. 2:15: See Num. 22:5,7. II Pet. 2:22: See Prov. 26:11.
Word Studies:

2.7 vexed distressed; filthy conversation immoral conduct; 3:16 wrest distort.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Official: Rep. Adrian Smith (NE) • Country: Mexico (99.7 million) in North America • Major language: Spanish • Religious freedom • 89% Catholic; 6% Protestant; 3.5% None; 1.5% Other (Orthodox, Muslim, Jewish, Baha'i) • Prayer Suggestion: Call unto the Lord and He will give you strength to overcome (Jer. 33:3).
Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 6:33

[Judy Harder]

December 20, 2010   

Read I John 1 -- 3
Highlights:

Confession of sin brings cleansing from sin and all unrighteousness (I John 1:9). If we hate our brother we are in darkness (2:9-10). To love is to abide in the light. If we keep His Commandments we dwell in Him and He in us (3:22-24).
Our Heavenly Father has provided us with a Savior, Jesus Christ. What better way to live our lives than to commit to following His example, even as John wrote: If we say that we have fellowship with Him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not (practice) the truth: But if we walk in the light, as He is in the light, we have fellowship one with another (I John 1:6-7).

There are some who assume they have a relationship with Christ but still walk in darkness. God directed John to write that darkness is associated with a heart that hates its brother. Walking in the Light is associated with a right relationship with our brother. Being in the Light leads to fellowship with one another. The spiritually minded who walk in the Light, as He is in the Light, are first and foremost concerned that Christ be exalted in their thoughts, conduct, and conversation with others (II Cor. 10:5; Rom. 12:1-2).

Darkness is associated with those who have not seen the Light concerning Jesus. How do we know if we are in darkness? Darkness is to be absent of Light, the Light of Life. Are we free to speak to the faults of others? Do we expose their failings? Are we living in adultery or fornication? Wherever there is hate and murder, there is darkness. Any participation in that which is unholy and unclean means we are in darkness. Such people receive a feeling of supremacy by drawing attention to one's self and seeking to dominate conversations.

Darkness appears in the form of impatience, a sensitive spirit that is easily offended, a disposition to resent and retaliate when contradicted, or in impulses to criticize. A jealous disposition, a secret spirit of envy, or a tendency to speak of the faults and failings of others rather than of their virtues are also characteristics of darkness. Some walk in darkness with a spirit of discouragement and self-pity and a determination to convey that spirit to everyone who will listen.

Even though our desire is to walk in the Light and in fellowship with the Lord and with one another, remember if any man sin, we have an Advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous (I John 2:1). We can get discouraged when we fall into sin, but we can again walk in the Light with Him: If we confess our sins, He is faithful and to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness (I John 1:9).

Thought for Today:

Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting (Ps. 139:23-24).
Word Studies:

2:3 keep guard with our lives and obey; 2:20 Unction anointing of the Holy Spirit. This is how we can know all things (2:20); 3:9 His Seed Jesus, the Word of God (Gal. 3:16; John 1:1-14; Luke 8:11).
Cross References:

For I John 1:8: See Eccl. 7:20. I John 3:12: See Gen. 4:8.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Miss Ruth Ness • Staff: Gina Lesnefsky • Government Officials: Rep. Henry Brown, Jr. (SC), Gov. Sonny Perdue (GA), and Rep. Ike Skelton (MO) • Country: Moldova (4.3 million) southeastern Europe • Major languages: Rumanian and Russian • Limited religious freedom • 66% Russian/Romanian Orthodox; 2.5% Catholic (Greek and Roman); 1.7% Protestant (mainly Baptist); 1.5% Jewish; .2% Muslim; 28.1% Agnostic/Atheist/Other • Prayer Suggestion: Pour out your heart in prayer to the Lord for your children (Lam. 2:19).
Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 6:33