Bible Pathways

[Judy Harder]

January 13, 2011   

Read Genesis 37 -- 39
Highlights:

You may weep as you read about Joseph who foreshadows Christ. Both are especially loved by their fathers, but hated by their brethren. Joseph's dreams result in him being sold into slavery. Because of the evil deceit of Potiphar's wife, Joseph is imprisoned. God could have kept Joseph out of prison; instead God accompanies (Gen. 39:2-3;21-23).
Joseph was the only one of Jacob's 12 sons who expressed an interest in spiritual things in their younger years. But Joseph was deeply troubled about his older brothers' evil conduct while they were away from home. At 17 years of age, Joseph . . . was feeding the flock with his brethren and reported to his father the evil things they were doing (Gen. 37:2). Because Joseph was the son of his old age (37:3) and the son of his favorite wife, Rachel, and possibly because of Joseph's concern for his brothers' spiritual well-being, Jacob loved him more than all his brethren (sons) (37:4).

Some people discourage exposing others' wrongdoing and some say they do not want to become involved. But Joseph possessed spiritual integrity and was willing to face abuse from his brothers for revealing their evil ways. Their hatred of him increased (37:4) when Joseph shared his prophetic dreams with them (37:5-7). His brothers scoffed, saying: Shalt thou indeed reign over us? . . . they hated him yet the more for his dreams (37:. After this, Joseph's brothers went to feed their father's flock in Shechem, which was a considerable distance from their home (37:12). Some time later, Jacob, concerned about his sons' welfare, sent Joseph to check on them (37:14). After searching, Joseph found his brothers near Dothan (37:17).

They stript Joseph out of his coat . . . of many colours . . . and cast him into a pit (37:23-24). They sold Joseph as a slave to traveling Ishmaelites, who, in turn, sold him in the Egyptian slave market to Potiphar, the captain of Pharaoh's royal guard (37:27-28,36; 39:1). Their last memories of their terrified younger brother were of him pleading for his life (42:21).

The Christian life as foreshadowed by Joseph's ordeal is illustrated in these words: Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you (I Pet. 4:12).

God used the difficult experiences of Joseph in Egypt to prepare him to be the preserver of the people of God and, thus, the lineage of the coming Messiah, Jesus Christ. Joseph's experiences are a reminder that our Lord has assured us: I will answer him: I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him, and honour him (Ps. 91:15).

Thought for Today:

It is a good thing to give thanks unto the Lord, and to sing praises unto Thy Name, O most High (Ps. 92:1).
Christ Portrayed:

By Joseph,who was rejected by his own brothers, sold for 20 pieces of silver to Gentiles, and unjustly imprisoned, but who eventually became their savior and a world ruler (Gen. 37:28; 41:39-40). Jesus came unto His own (people), and His own received Him not. But as many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God (John 1:11-12). He will return victoriously to rule the world (Rev. 19:11-16; 22:3).
Word Studies:

37:2 evil report of sinful things they were doing; 37:7 made obeisance bowed in respect; 37:11 observed wondered; 37:22 rid rescue; 37:29 rent tore his clothes as an act of grief; 37:34 sackcloth a coarse, loose cloth worn as a sign of mourning; 38:2 took carried; 38:18 signet ring bearing seal with which official documents were stamped; 38:24 whoredom prostitution; 39:14 mock disgrace.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Thursday Morning Prayer • Staff: Rita Guerra • Country: Portugal (10 million) in western Europe • Major language: Portuguese • Limited religious freedom • 95% Christian; 5% non-Religious/Other; .5% Muslim; .1% Hindu; .01% Jewish • Prayer Suggestion: Pray that the will of God be done in every situation you face today (Matt. 6:10).
Optional Reading: Matthew 13

Memory Verse for the Week: Deuteronomy 4:2

[Judy Harder]

 January 14, 2011   

Read Genesis 40 -- 42
Highlights:

Thrilling as well as horrifying events follow Joseph's God-given gift of dream interpretation. Being sold as a slave fulfills his own dreams. Forced to buy corn (grain) in Egypt, Joseph's brothers bow down to him, not knowing he is their brother. In Egypt, his interpretation of dreams results in preserving the lives of his brothers.
Thirteen years had passed since Joseph had been sold by his brothers into slavery and taken to Egypt. Joseph's character and self-control were tested over and over again as a slave. Although Joseph was innocent of any crime, he was later imprisoned and endured all the shame and punishment of the dungeon. During that horrifying ordeal, Joseph experienced many lonely nights suffering as a prisoner, whose feet they hurt with fetters: he was laid in iron (Ps. 105:18). He never became bitter, but remained faithful to God, believing that the Lord was with him (Gen. 39:23). It is evident that Joseph counted all earthly satisfactions as incomparable with the honor of being faithful to God. Even though Joseph was afterward highly exalted, his true reward was unseen by the world. Joseph stands as an example that God has a much greater reward to bestow upon His faithful servants than the elusive, soon-vanishing satisfactions of this world.

At the age of 30, Joseph was called to interpret Pharaoh's dreams. Joseph answered Pharaoh . . . God shall give Pharaoh an answer of peace (41:16). Because the Lord interpreted the dreams through Joseph, Pharaoh acknowledged him as the wisest man in Egypt. This former outcast then received Pharoah's own ring with new authority as second ruler over all the land of Egypt (41:39-44). The dreams which Joseph had experienced many years before were now becoming reality.

We may endure months, or even years, when it appears that God either does not care about us or cannot do anything about our circumstances. However, God has amazing ways of developing our talents and maturing us spiritually through difficult times when we remain faithful to Him. God worketh all things after the counsel of His own will (Eph. 1:11), even though it may appear that He is slow to deliver His servants from distress. How foolish to judge the wisdom or love of God by present circumstances which surround us.

For who hath known the mind of the Lord? or who hath been His counseller? Or who hath first given to Him, and it shall be recompensed unto him again? For of Him, and through Him, and to Him, are all things: to whom be glory for ever. Amen (Rom. 11:34-36). We shall reap, if we faint not (don't give up) (Gal. 6:9).

Thought for Today:

Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ (Rom. 5:1).
Christ Revealed:

By the wisdom of Joseph (Gen. 41:39). Christ; In whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge (Col. 2:2-3).
Word Studies:

40:1 butler cupbearer, chief servant officer; 40:3 in ward in custody; 41:3 ill favoured very skinny; brink bank; 41:5 rank large full grain; 41:6 blasted blighted; 41:18 fatfleshed fine looking; 41:33 discreet of wisdom and discernment; 41:35 hand authority; 41:47 by handfuls abundantly; 41:54 dearth famine; 41:56 waxed sore became severe; 42:7 made himself strange unto them acted as a stranger to them; 42:15 proved tested; 42:21 besought begged; 42:34 traffick-do business.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for international Broadcasts in honor of Linda Kennon • Government Official: Rep. Michael McCaul (TX) • Country: Qatar (600,000) in southwestern Asia • Major languages: Arabic and English • Muslim conversion to Christ is forbidden, but expatriate Christians are allowed to meet informally • 79.5% Muslim; 10.5% Christian; 7.2% Hindu; 1.8% Buddhist; .9% non-Religious/Other • Prayer Suggestion: Ask for your daily needs (Matt. 6:11).
Optional Reading: Matthew 14

Memory Verse for the Week: Deuteronomy 4:2

[Judy Harder]

January 15, 2011   

Read Genesis 43 -- 45
Highlights:

Jacob's sons, including Benjamin, return to Egypt for food. Can you imagine the emotions flowing through the minds of Joseph's brothers as he reveals himself to them? Jacob informed that Joseph is still alive and is the governor of Egypt.
Because of the great famine, Jacob was forced to send his sons to Egypt to buy food again. Joseph, the second most powerful ruler of Egypt, spoke to his brothers through an interpreter. As he spoke they were unaware the ruler was their brother, whom they had sold into slavery about 20 years earlier. Joseph said . . . I am Joseph; doth my father yet live? Joseph's brothers had deceived their father and escaped accountability for their cruel sin against him. Now in shame, Joseph's brothers were face to face with him. And his brethren could not answer him; for they were troubled at his presence (Gen. 45:3). Imagine their shock when he said, in their own Hebrew language: I am Joseph your brother, whom ye sold into Egypt (45:4).

The words I am Joseph struck fear in the hearts of his brothers. They were speechless as thoughts of Joseph's revenge and their execution appeared imminent. To their amazement, he lovingly added: Be not . . . angry with yourselves, that ye sold me hither: for God did send me before you to preserve life (45:5). He did not hold a grudge or denounce them for heartlessly abandoning him in a pit, and then wickedly selling him as a slave to the Ishmaelites.

One of the great needs today among Christians is to demonstrate the spirit of Joseph. Do we know the God of Joseph when we are misunderstood, unjustly maligned, or cruelly abused? With a heart filled with love, we can say: As for you, ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good (50:20). What a spirit of compassion and mercy! Moreover he kissed all his brethren, and wept upon them (45:15). Here the offended one showed all his forgiveness towards the guilty. Oh, yes, the love of God is still the same today toward all who, like Joseph, express this forgiving mercy toward those who treat them despitefully.

In His Sermon on the Mount, Jesus taught us to: 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; That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven (Matt. 5:44-45).

Thought for Today:

Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men (Rom. 12:17).
Christ Revealed:

Through Joseph's dealings with his brothers. Christ deals with us in such a way as to bring about our confession of sin and a recognition of His forgiving love. In a similar way, He reveals His sovereignty over the affairs of life (Gen. 45:5-8,15; compare Rom. 5:8; Eph. 1:17,20-22).
Word Studies:

43:1 sore severe; 43:6 ill badly; 43:7 straitly specifically; tenor he merely answered his questions; 43:17 bade ardered; 43:25 the present against Joseph present-gifts; against before; 43:28 made obeisance bowed low in respect; 43:30 bowels heart; upon toward; 43:32 set on for him met a place for him; abomination detestable thing; 43:34 messes servings; 44:10 servant slave; 44:15 can . . . divine would be able to know; 44:34 evil suffering; 45:3 troubled terrified; 45:6 earing blowing; 45:17 lade road; 45:18 fat best; 45:24 fall not out to not quarrel.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in memory of Iva Ann McElroy • Country: Romania (22.5 million) in southeastern Europe • Major languages: Rumanian and Hungarian • Freedom of worship • 69.5% Romanian Orthodox Church; 14% non-Religious/Other; 8% Protestant; 7% Catholic; 1% Muslim; .1% Jewish; .4% Marginal • Prayer Suggestion: Forgive others without exception, and then ask the Lord to forgive you (Matt. 6:12).
Optional Reading: Matthew 15

Memory Verse for the Week: Deuteronomy 4:2

 

[Judy Harder]

 January 16, 2011   

Read Genesis 46 -- 48
Highlights:

Jacob's vision at Beersheba; journey to Egypt; best land given to Jacob; Joseph and the famine; Joseph's sons blessed. Read the stirring details of how God used Joseph to dramatically save the small Israelite family from extinction.
Jacob knew that God had planned for his people to live in Canaan (the Promised Land), not in Egypt (a symbol of worldly and sinful living). Were Jacob's sons telling the truth this time? Jacob did not rush to Egypt for a grand reunion with his precious son Joseph. Since the will of God was uppermost in Jacob's heart, he prayed to God concerning his journey to Egypt. Jacob left Hebron, journeyed about 25 miles to Beersheba, and offered sacrifices unto the God of his father Isaac. And God spake unto . . . Jacob . . . fear not to go down into Egypt; for I will there make of thee a great nation . . . I will also surely bring thee up again (Gen. 46:1-4). For many years, Jacob's family enjoyed Egypt's prosperity, but they eventually became involved in its sin of idol worship and lost sight of the covenant promise of God. God said He would bless them, if they would live in obedience to Him. Eventually, the nation that had once welcomed Jacob and his sons, enslaved them.

Egypt was symbolic of the world with its many "good things" that often keep us from doing the will of God. Satan directs all his deceptive efforts to capture our hearts' interest and keep us from being devoted to the Lord. Jesus said: Seek ye first the Kingdom of God, and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you (Matt. 6:33)

The Holy Spirit led the Apostle John to warn us: Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 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). It is of utmost importance that we not become sidetracked by materialism, but live to serve the Lord.

The whole world lieth in wickedness. . . . Little children, keep yourselves from idols (5:19,21); but godliness with contentment is great gain. . . . And having food and raiment let us be therewith content. But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith. . . . But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness (I Tim. 6:6-11).

Thought for Today:

Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify another (Rom. 14:19).
Christ Portrayed:

By Joseph, who was placed by God, second only to Pharaoh (Gen. 41:39-40) in order to sustain life and give provision (47:15-17). Jesus said: The Bread of God is He which cometh down from heaven, and giveth life unto the world (John 6:33).
Word Studies:

46:4 shall put his hand upon thine eyes will close your eyes when you die; 47:4 sore severe; 47:6 of activity skillfull at their craft; 47:13 fainted suffered, were exhausted; 47:18 not ought; 47:20 prevailed over them continued to be severe; 47:21 removed them coved them as servants; 48:6 issue, which thou begettest four children; 48:10 were dim became blind; 48:14 guiding his hands wittingly crossing his hands intentionally.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Country: Russia (146.5 million) northeastern Europe and northern Asia • Major language: Russian • Religious freedom • 55% Russian Orthodox; 9% Muslim; 1% Protestant (Baptist, Pentecostal); .8% Shamanist/Animist; .6% Buddhist; .5% Roman Catholic; .5% New Religions (e.g., Hare Krishna); .4% Jewish; .1% Old Believers; 32.1% Agnostics/Atheists/Others • Prayer Suggestion: Ask the Lord to lead you in all that you do (Matt. 6:13).
Optional Reading: Matthew 16

Memory Verse for the Week: Proverbs 28:9

[Judy Harder]

January 17, 2011   

Read Genesis 49 -- Exodus 1
Highlights:

Jacob's prophecies concerning his twelve sons; Judah to be an ancestor of the Messiah; Hebrew people oppressed in Egypt. The Israelites' stay in Egypt ends. The chosen people of God begin a new era as the Lord leads them to the Promised Land.
Although he was not the firstborn, Judah was destined to be part of the Abrahamic Covenant with its promise of the Messiah (Gen. 22:18). Judah is a . . . lion. . . . The sceptre shall not depart from Judah, nor a lawgiver from between his feet, until Shiloh come; and unto Him shall the gathering of the people be (49:9-10).

Judah emerged as the powerful leader of Israel and one who was feared by his enemies as a lion (49:9). Added to this, he was to hold the sceptre of legislative control over the other tribes until Shiloh come. Shiloh means "Peacemaker," and is commonly accepted to be a name or title for the Messiah.

Throughout the Scripture, God reveals His wonderful plan of salvation through Christ, our Savior, and as we look forward to His glorious return our hearts are thrilled. The coming of the Lord Jesus Christ is good news to all who love Him and keep His Commandments. . . . For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith (I John 5:2,4).

We may be forced to endure suffering, as we become involved in situations where we may be as powerless as the baby Moses in a homemade ark floating in the Nile River. It could be that death has left us without a parent or spouse. Some may feel defeated following a divorce. Others may have received a terminal diagnosis from a doctor. God has revealed that throughout life, all of us will face unforeseen and unavoidable sorrows.

In spite of all life's difficulties, every Christian, regardless of circumstances, can say with the Apostle Paul: I am persuaded (convinced), that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come . . . nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord (Rom. 8:38-39).

When our King is come, He will reprove the world of sin . . . and of judgment . . . because the prince of this world, (Satan, whose demonic power has oppressed the world with hate and suffering) is judged (John 16:8,11). Oh, the freedom of that day! Even so, come, Lord Jesus (Rev. 22:20).

Thought for Today:

Blessed are they that do His Commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city (Rev. 22:14).
Christ Revealed:

The sceptre shall not depart from Judah . . . until Shiloh (the Peacemaker) come (Gen. 49:10). As the Messiah who would come. Behold, the Lion of the tribe of Juda, the Root of David, hath prevailed (Rev. 5:5).
Word Studies:

GENESIS 49:8 in the neck of in control over; 49:10 sceptre ruler's staff of authority; 49:26 The blessings of thy father have prevailed above the blessings of my progenitors the blessings I have received are greater than those received by my ancestors; 50:15 will certainly requite will fully repay. EXODUS 1:10 when there falleth out any war if war occurs; 1:12 grieved fearful of their size; 1:17 feared bad reverential, heartfelt submission to; 1:19 are lively hear quickly, easily; 1:20 waxed very mighty became very numerous.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in honor of Bonnie Wilhite • Executive Director of the IBRA in our Washington DC Branch: Reverend Michael Hall • Government Official: Gov. Ruth Ann Minner (DE) • Country: Rwanda (7 million) in central Africa • Major languages: Kinyarwanda and French • Religious freedom • 80% Christian; 10.5% Muslim; 4.5% non-Religious/Other; 4% Traditional ethnic; .2% Baha'i • Prayer Suggestion: Ask the Lord to forgive you of all ill will, grudges, or hatred you may hold in your heart toward another person (Matt. 6:14-15).
Optional Reading: Matthew 17

Memory Verse for the Week: Proverbs 28:9

 

[Judy Harder]

January 18, 2011   

Read Exodus 2 -- 4
Highlights:

Moses' flight into Midian; the burning bush; his commission to free the nation of Israel; his return to Egypt. Moses was a type of Christ. Both were endangered in infancy. Both were deliverers and mediators.
Moses was only a peasant shepherd when God said to him: I will send thee unto Pharaoh, that thou mayest bring forth My people the children of Israel out of Egypt. And Moses said unto God, Who am I, that I should go unto Pharaoh? (Ex. 3:10-11).

The Israelite slaves were controlled by the most powerful nation on earth. Moses had forfeited his influence in Egypt forty years before, and added to that, he felt he was not a fluent speaker. Moses' response could be expected. However, the Almighty Creator rules and overrules the affairs of life. Who am I was not important. It was of much greater significance that Moses had faith in the One who said I will send thee unto Pharaoh.

At one time Moses could have been the next Pharaoh. But he 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 (Heb. 11:24-26). Moses, once in a powerful position in the royal household of Egypt, now acknowledged his insufficiency and had to accept, by faith, the Word of God. I will be with thee was the assurance God gave Moses (3:12) and He still promises to be with every Christian: I am with you alway (Matt. 28:20; Heb. 13:5).

We are in a hurry to produce results with our abilities. God is also concerned with our learning to trust Him, even when faced with difficulties.

Note the familiar phrase, And Moses . . . did as the Lord commanded (Ex. 7:6,20; 16:34; 17:6; 39:1,5,7,21,26,29,31,32; 40:16,19,21,23,25,27,29,32). You will see that Moses became a great leader of his people because he faithfully obeyed God.

We, too, can experience Christ as Lord of our lives. Obedience means that we personally, day by day, listen to the whole counsel of God as it is revealed in His Word (I Sam. 15:22).

As obedient children, not fashioning 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) (I Pet. 1:14-15).

Thought for Today:

If ye love Me, keep My Commandments (John 14:15).
Christ Revealed:

As the I AM THAT I AM who commissioned Moses (Ex. 3:13-14; compare Heb. 13:. Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily (Truly, truly), I say unto you, Before Abraham was, I am (John 8:58).
Word Studies:

2:3 flags weeds; 2:18 Reuel; 2:23 bondage severe oppression; 2:25 had respect unto has concerned about; 3:18 hearken believe and obey; 3:22 spoil take the best of their valuables; 4:10 of a slow tongue not qualified; 4:16 to thee instead of a mouth your spokesman.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in memory of Henry Rogers • Assistant to the Executive Director of the IBRA in our Washington DC Branch: Terry Hall • Government Officials: Rep. Elijah Cummings (MD), Rep. Kay Granger (TX), Rep. Michael Michaud (ME), Gov. Martin O'Malley (MD), and Rep. Charlie Wilson (OH) • Country: Samoa (190,000) in the South Pacific • Major languages: Samoan and English • Religious freedom • 68% Protestant; 21% Roman Catholic; 2% Baha'i; 1.1% non-Religious/Other • Prayer Suggestion: Pray and fast in secret so that only the Lord knows (Matt. 6:16-18).
Optional Reading: Matthew 18

Memory Verse for the Week: Proverbs 28:9

 

[Judy Harder]

January 19, 2011   

Read Exodus 5 -- 7
Highlights:

Step by step the battle intensifies as Pharaoh brashly questions: Who is the Lord, that I should obey His voice? (Ex. 5:2). Aaron speaks for Moses; Moses' rod turned into a snake; the plague of blood.
God commanded Moses to face the Pharaoh of Egypt, who referred to himself as a god, and say: Thus saith the Lord God of Israel, Let My people go, that they may hold (celebrate) a feast unto Me in the wilderness. And Pharaoh said, who is the Lord, that I should obey His voice . . . ?

I know not the Lord, neither will I let Israel go (Ex. 5:1-2).

Moses' immediate reaction was to blame God, saying: Wherefore hast Thou so evil entreated (brought harm to) this people? why is it that Thou hast sent me? For since I came to Pharaoh to speak in Thy Name, he hath done evil to this people; neither hast Thou delivered Thy people (5:22-23).

How often in life our questions far outnumber our answers: "Why have I been diagnosed with cancer? Why did my husband divorce me? Why did my child become a drug addict? Why was my child born with handicaps? Why did I lose my job? Why me?" God didn't answer Moses' questions, and seldom does He answer us in the way we expect.

When Moses cried out: "Why, Lord?," God first reminded him of who He is. And God spake unto Moses, and said unto him, I am the Lord (6:2), meaning: "I am the only Self-Existent God and the One who knows what is best. I am altogether sufficient to meet your needs." What is important for us to know is that God is the unchangeable, loving, Almighty, all-wise God of Truth. He promised Moses: I will bring you out from under the burdens of the Egyptians, and I will rid you out of their bondage . . . I will take you to Me for a people, and I will be to you . . . your God (6:6-8).

Everyone is important to God. He is no respector of persons (Acts 10:34). After His seventh I will, He repeated for emphasis: I am the Lord (Ex. 6:. God has never once failed to keep His Word. His promises are fulfilled when our life is in harmony with His Word. Consequently, it is seldom as soon as we expect, and almost never in the way we think best.

Pharaoh persisted in keeping the Israelites under his cruel authority. However, as had been foretold, the judgment of God was poured forth on each false Egyptian deity, and, eventually, on Pharaoh himself and his armies. To day . . . hear His voice, Harden not your hearts, as in the provocation (provoking Me), in the day of temptation (testing) in the wilderness. . . . I was grieved with that generation (Heb. 3:7-8,10).

Thought for Today:

The Lord is my Shepherd (to feed, guide, and protect me); I shall not want (He provides all my needs) (Ps. 23:1).
Christ Revealed:

As the Redeemer from the bondage of sin. I am the Lord, and I will bring you out . . . I will redeem you (Ex. 6:6). Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things . . . But with the precious blood of Christ (I Pet. 1:18-19).
Word Studies:

5:4 let distract; 5:8 tale daily quota; 5:9 vain words deceitful promises; 5:13 hasted dept driving; 5:19 in evil case in trouble; minish reduce; 5:21 savour good will; 5:22 evil entreated afflicted; 6:3 God Almighty all Sufficient, All Powerful God; 6:6 with a stretched out arm mightily; 6:9 hearkened not refused to listen; 6:13 charge command; 7:11 enchantments witchcraft; 7:15 brink edge; against he come waiting for him; 7:23 neither did he set his heart he ignored.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Staff: Benjamin Wallace • Country: San Marino (25,000) inside north-central Italy • Major language: Italian • Religious freedom • 95% Roman Catholic; 5% atheist • Prayer Suggestion: Do not worry about your material needs (Matt. 6:25-30).
Optional Reading: Matthew 19

Memory Verse for the Week: Proverbs 28:9

 

[Judy Harder]

January 20, 2011   

Read Exodus 8 -- 10
Highlights:

Plagues of frogs, lice, flies, death of cattle, boils, hail, locusts, and the utter darkness. If you think these eight plagues are bad, wait until you see what happens in tomorrow's reading.
Pharaoh gave permission for the men to go with Moses to sacrifice to God (Ex. 10:10-11), but the little ones, women, and the aged were to remain in bondage. Moses, as the servant of God, would not yield to Pharaoh's offer to compromise. Moses said (to Pharaoh), We will go with our young and with our old, with our sons and with our daughters, with our flocks and with our herds will we go; for we must hold a feast unto the Lord. . . . Not so: go now ye that are men, and serve the Lord; for that ye did desire. And they were driven out from Pharaoh's presence (10:9,11).The commands of God are nonnegotiable. We, too, have but one Authority.

We, too, must be delivered from Satan's power. When we are determined to make a complete break from the world, we will forsake our sins. By faith, we will trust the Risen Savior for overcoming cleansing power. Christ's death on the cross put an end to the power of Satan's grip on humanity. The power that raised Christ from the dead now enables the believer to live a new life with Christ. 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; II Cor. 5:17).

There are some who desire to worship God on the Lord's day, but never forsake their sins throughout the week and conform to contemporary, questionable worldly activities.

If our worship and life are to please our Savior and Lord, there can be no compromise. If any man will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me (Luke 9:23). The cross is a symbol of death to self-will and self-pleasing — of separation from the old life of sin to be a true disciple of Christ.The criminal in Roman times who was forced to pick up his cross and start down the road for crucifixion had already said goodbye to his friends. He was not coming back — there would be no return. Jesus said: He that taketh not his cross, and followeth after Me, is not worthy of Me (Matt. 10:38).

Thought for Today:

Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life (James 1:12).
Christ Revealed:

As The Light of the world in contrast to a thick darkness in all the land of Egypt . . . but all the children of Israel had light in their dwellings (Ex. 10:22-23). Jesus said: I am The Light of the world: he that followeth Me shall not walk in darkness (John 8:12).
Word Studies:

8:3 kneadingtroughs mixing vessels; 8:9 Glory over me: when shall I intreat for thee the honor is yours to tell me when I am to pray for you; 8:19 finger of God act of God; 8:22 sever wonderfully separate; 8:26 not meet not proper; 9:20 feared the Word of the Lord terrified by the threat of God; 9:28 Intreat pray fervently; 9:31 bolled ripening; 10:7 be a snare continue to be a menace.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in honor of Joshua Belisle salvation • Staff: Linda Kennon • Government Official: Rep. Shelley Berkley (NV) • Country: Sao Tome and Principe (155,000) two larger and several smaller islands in the Gulf of Guinea, 125 miles off the western coast of Africa • Major language: Portuguese • Religious freedom is fairly new • 83% Roman Catholic; 3% Protestant; 2% animist • Prayer Suggestion: Trust that God will provide your needs when you put His will first in your life (Matt. 6:31-33).
Optional Reading: Matthew 20

Memory Verse for the Week: Proverbs 28:9

[Judy Harder]

January 21, 2011


Read Exodus 11 -- 13
Highlights:

Death of the firstborn; Passover instructions; departure from Egypt; firstborn to be set apart; pillar of cloud and pillar of fire; journey begins to the promised land.
God had only one plan: For I will pass through the land of Egypt this night, and will smite all the firstborn in the land of Egypt . . . and when I see the blood, I will pass over you, and the plague shall not be upon you to destroy you, when I smite the land of Egypt (Ex. 12:12-13).

Not one family was so good that it did not require the blood to be applied — no, not even Moses' or Aaron's. This was their only hope of deliverance from the death angel. The divine Command of God had to be obeyed.

Just as the blood of an innocent lamb was the only appointed means to preserve the Hebrews from death, so we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace (Eph. 1:7). One may assume that as long as he is sincere or good enough, that some other means would satisfy God, but sadly he will be eternally lost.

Later instruction regarding sacrifices states: They shall eat those things wherewith the atonement was made (Ex. 29:33). The Hebrew word translated atonement carries the idea of covering something, thereby removing it from the sight of God and assuring His forgiveness. This points out that an innocent lamb made only a temporary atonement — sin was not fully eradicated. Even though there were numerous daily, weekly, and monthly sin offerings, the Israelites were still required to observe a full Day of Atonement annually. In the New Testament, it is revealed: We also joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom we have now received the atonement (Rom. 5:11). The Greek word for atonement means: We have now obtained our reconciliation.

God sent His only Son to die on the cross to save us from eternal death and adopt us into His family. Our security from this eternal death is through acceptance of Christ as our personal Savior. He alone can satisfy both God and the repentant sinner.

Being justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation (a means of reconciliation, redemption) through faith in His blood, to declare His righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God. . . . Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the Law (Rom. 3:24-25,28).

Thought for Today:

How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him that bringeth good tidings, that publisheth peace; that bringeth good tidings of good, that publisheth salvation; that saith unto Zion, Thy God reigneth (Is. 52:7)!
Christ Revealed:

By the blood applied to the door posts. Jesus is not "a door," but The Door to heaven. There is no other way to heaven except through Him (Ex. 12:7,12-13,21-23; John 10:9;14:6; Acts 4:10-12).
Word Studies:

11:7 move his tongue bark, growl; 12:9 purtenance internal organs; 12:11 with your loins girded dressed ready for travel; 12:22 hyssop common plant of the mint family; lintel crosspiece above the door; 12:36 spoiled took all the valuables of; 13:2 Sanctify dedicate; 13:3 leavened bread bread with yeast — symbolic of corruption and evil; 13:12 matrix womb; 13:16 token reminder that we belong to God; frontlets small leather box containing Scripture; 13:17 repent change their minds; 13:18 harnessed in military order.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Staff: Jannah Kennon • Government Officials: Sec. Gary Locke (Dept. of Commerce) and Attorney General Eric Holder, Jr. (Dept. of Justice) • Country: Saudi Arabia (20.9 million) on the Arabian Peninsula in southwestern Asia • Major language: Arabic • Christian worship services for foreign personnel are tolerated, but those who seek to convert Muslims to Christianity face persecution • 86% Sunni (Wahabi) Muslim; 10% Shi'ite Muslim; 1% Ismaili Muslim; 3% Others (including 600,000 Christians and some Hindus and Buddhists) • Prayer Suggestion: Thank the Lord that you have no need to fear. Trust Him one day at a time (Matt. 6:33-34).
Optional Reading: Matthew 21

Memory Verse for the Week: Proverbs 28:9

[Judy Harder]

January 22, 2011   

Read Exodus 14 -- 16
Highlights:

Miracle after miracle fills the chapters of this Book. A reminder of the power of God. You will enjoy reading these events. Crossing the Red Sea; song of Moses; the waters of Marah; murmurings, manna, and quail.
The will of God was revealed to the Israelites in Egypt, and the people believed and they bowed their heads and worshipped (Ex. 4:31). God was in the process of fulfilling His promise to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. He would deliver them from slavery and lead them to the promised land. After four hundred years (Acts 7:6), a victory for Israel had been accomplished that freed them from Egyptian oppression! The song of Moses was sung to celebrate deliverance from Egypt.

So Moses brought Israel from the Red Sea, and they went out into the wilderness of Shur; and they went three days in the wilderness, and found no water (Ex. 15:22).

What joy and excitement filled the camp at the news that refreshing water was discovered! But, when they came to Marah, they could not drink of the waters of Marah, for they were bitter: therefore the name of it was called Marah (15:23). Their thankfulness turned to disappointment and then anger as they tasted the bitter water. This unexpected trouble was an opportunity for Israel to trust in the Word of God alone, but they waited not for His counsel (Ps. 106:13). They decided it had been better . . . to serve the Egyptians (Ex. 14:12).

God had clearly revealed His will to lead them to the promised land, yet ten times they expressed their unbelief (14:10-12; 15:22-24; 16:2-3,7-9,12,19-20,25-29; 17:3,8-16; 32:7-10). Their faith in the Word of God never went beyond the next obstacle. They believed not His Word (Ps. 106:24).

The Lord still leads His faithful children through circumstances of apparent defeat but it is here they learn the futility of human reasoning and how to wait upon Him for direction. Our disappointments are His appointments to develop our faith.

As soon as the child of God is persuaded of the will of God, opposition will arise, often wholly unexpected. Satan, the enemy of man's soul, will attempt to prevent the accomplishment of the will of God. In times of uncertainty, seek the Lord's guidance (Prov. 3:5-7) and wait upon the Lord. For evildoers shall be cut off: but those that wait upon the Lord, they shall inherit the earth (Ps. 37:9). Don't depend upon your own changing emotions or the uncertain circumstances around you.

Without faith it is impossible to please Him . . . he that cometh to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him (Heb. 11:6).

Thought for Today:

My kindness shall not depart from thee, neither shall the covenant of My peace be removed, saith the Lord that hath mercy on thee (Is. 54:10).
Christ Revealed:

Through the bread (manna) from heaven (Ex. 16: 4, 15). Jesus said: I am the Living Bread which came down from heaven (John 6:51; 6:32-50).
Word Studies:

14:8 with an high hand triumphantly and without fear; 14:13 salvation deliverance; 14:17 get me honour upon triumph over; 15:25 proved them tested their faith; 16:3 flesh pots bowls; 16:15 wist not did not know; 16:18 mete measure; 16:20 hearkened not would not listen; 16:23 holy sabbath day of rest and worship to the Lord; seethe boil.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Staff: Gina Lesnefsky • Government Official: Rep. Melissa Bean (IL) • Country: Senegal (10 million) in western Africa • Major language: French • Religious freedom • 92% Muslim; 4% animism and ancestor worship; 3% Roman Catholic; .1% Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: Ask, seek, and knock through prayer, knowing God promises to answer (Matt. 7:7-8).
Optional Reading: Matthew 22

Memory Verse for the Week: Proverbs 28:9