Bible Pathways

[Judy Harder]

Read Deuteronomy 17 -- 20
Highlights:

Even a king must obey the Laws of God in His Word (the Books of Moses) all the days of his life (Deut. 17:19). Learn how to know a true or false prophet (18:22).
God directed Israel to overthrow all the kingdoms in Canaan because of their sinful conduct. No Canaanite was to be spared.

In war, Israelite soldiers often faced Canaanite armies far greater in numbers. Feeling powerless when Canaanite soldiers came charging at them in speeding iron chariots, the Israelite soldiers fled to the mountains where chariots could not follow. However, all the miracles of their past should have caused them to remember that God said: When thou goest out to battle against thine enemies, and seest horses, and chariots, and a people more than thou, be not afraid. . . . For the Lord your God is He that goeth with you, to fight for you against your enemies, to save you (Deut. 20:1,4).

A Christian can be confident of this very thing, that He which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ (Phil. 1:6).

Israel's Canaanite enemies illustrate our spiritual warfare against our own human nature which enslaved us before we were saved. We are cautioned: Love not the world (the desires of our fleshly human nature which would keep us from living as we should) . . . . the lust of the flesh . . . is of the world (I John 2:15-17). The Christian life is a life of warfare (Eph. 6:16-18). But we can be assured that God will not fail us nor forsake us when we are obedient and remain faithful to His Word. The God who saved us will empower us to overcome all evil as we determine to be all that He created us to be. If God was to give the Israelites the promised land, God told Joshua: This Book of the Law shall not depart out thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success (Josh. 1:. When soldiers followed the direction from God, the same enemies were defeated and totally destroyed with not one Israelite death. God gave them victory over their enemies (7:3-4; 8:1,25-26). This illustrates our spiritual battles that can be won daily when we follow His directions on how to have good success.

All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works (II Tim. 3:16-17).

Thought for Today:

It shall be with him, and he shall read therein all the days of his life: that he may learn to fear the Lord his God, to keep all the words of this Law and these statutes, to do them (Deut. 17:19).
Christ Revealed:

Through the Old Testament animal (without blemish) sacrifices which were made (Deut. 17:1). Christ was perfectly pure from all sin. Christ . . . without blemish and without spot (I Pet. 1:19). As the Prophet (Deut. 18:18-19).
Word Studies:

17:2 transgressing His Covenant sinful conduct, disregard; 17:4 wrought bone; 17:12 presumptuously arrogantly, haughtily; hearken unto listen to and obey; 17:5 stranger foreigner; 18:3 due right; 18:6 sojourned has been residing; 18:8 patrimony father's estate; 18:10 maketh . . . to pass through the fire burns his child alive as an offering to an idol; divination enchantment, witchcraft; 18:11 familiar spirits, wizard, necromancer various activities of fortunetelling, consulting the dead, etc.; 18:13 perfect wholehearted in your love and service to God, blameless; 19:4 ignorantly unintentionally; 19:5 helve handle; lighteth strikes; 19:18 make diligent inquisition investigate thoroughly; 20:11 tributaries forced laborers
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Officials: Rep. Jason Altmire (PA), Rep. Brian Baird (WA), and Rep. Elton Gallegly (CA) • Staff: Linda Kennon • Country: Vietnam (78.5 million) in Southeast Asia • Major languages: Vietnamese and French • Very strict control of Christians in the North; the South has been more lenient but is getting tighter • 60% Buddhist; 8% Catholic; 1% Protestant; 3% Cao Dai; 2% Hoa Hao; 3% Islam; 13% Other; 10% None • Prayer Suggestion: During times of trouble, pray constantly and ask for patience (Rom. 12:12).
Optional Reading: Luke 22

Memory Verse for the Week: I Peter 1:22

 

[Judy Harder]

 March 8, 2011   

Read Deuteronomy 21 -- 23
Highlights:

Read about laws, rules, regulations, and responsibilities to fulfull the purpose of God to preserve the cleanliness and holiness of the promised land.
The loving Creator gave the laws of these chapters to protect His people from the immoral conduct of surrounding nations. Such conduct would destroy the Israelites' ability to fulfill His purposes. Among the laws is this unusual regulation: Thou shalt not sow thy vineyard with divers seeds: lest the fruit . . . be defiled (Deut. 22:9). Although we are under no obligation today to literally observe this command, the principle of purity is still as binding. Now these things were our examples, to the intent we should not lust after evil things, as they also lusted. . . . They are written for our admonition. . . . Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing (I Cor. 10:6,11-12; II Cor. 6:17). Again, His Word declares: Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers (6:14).

Our Lord also set forth the principle of single-hearted devotion to Him when He said: Seek . . . first the Kingdom of God, and His righteousness (Matt. 6:33). Single-heartedness is the key to victorious Christian living. We choose either Christ who speaks to us through His Word or some other person or thing. No man can serve two masters (6:24). The one we choose is our lord.

The single-hearted Christian is in the world but should not be of the world (John 15:19). As Christians we should take a position against the compromising, corrupting influences which permeate the world. We are in the world — expressly placed here by God, living among those who are of the world — to represent and present the Light of the world (note 1:4-5; 8:12; 9:5; also Matt. 5:14-16).

Only by living a life separated from the world's principles can we lead others to love Christ and His Word.

The world is self-pleasing and self-exalting, resulting in inevitable disappointment. The life in Christ demonstrates His love which seeks the highest good of others, even to the denying of self. Like Lot, who chose to live in Sodom, many fail to be effective witnesses because their daily conduct is so intermingled with the "pleasures" of the world. But read the prayer of Christ: I have given them Thy Word; and the world hath hated them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world (John 17:14).

Thought for Today:

There is one God, and one Mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus (I Tim. 2:5).
Christ Revealed:

Christ died on a cross in our place, submitting to the penalty of death imposed by the Law for our sins (Deut. 21:22-23). In the evening He was taken down from the cross, signifying the Law had been satisfied (John 19:31). Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the Law, being made a curse for us (Gal. 3:13).
Word Studies:

21:3 wrought worked; 21:4 eared ploughed; strike assault; 21:12 pare prim; 21:13 bewail mourn; 21:15 hated loved less; 22:3 hide thyself do nothing to help him, avoid responsibility; 22:6 dam bother; 22:8 battlement guard rail; 22:9 divers various kinds of; 22:14 maid virgin; 22:15 damsel young woman; 22:19 amerce fine; 22:25 force gape; 22:30 discover uncover; 23:1 stones testicles; 23:13 paddle spade; 23:19 usury interest.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Staff: Beth Carlton • Country: Yemen (17 million) in southwestern Arabia • Major language: Arabic • Attempts to convert Muslims to Christ are fiercely opposed • 98% Muslim; .03% Christian (all secret believers) • Prayer Suggestion: Prayer Suggestion: Pray fervently with others (Rom. 15:30).
Optional Reading: Luke 23

Memory Verse for the Week: I Peter 1:22

 

[Judy Harder]

March 9, 2011   
 
Read Deuteronomy 24 -- 27

Highlights:

God speaks of His blessings at Mount Gerizim and His curses at Mount Ebal. The blessings result from obedience and faithfulness. The curses result from disobeying the Word of God! Take note of the Law of the offering of firstfruits.
God required that all of Israel's business transactions reflect His integrity and justice. Deception and dishonesty often have become the business principles of the world.

Thou shalt not have . . . divers measures . . . But thou shalt have a . . . just weight . . . that thy days may be lengthened. . . . For . . . all that do unrighteously, are an abomination unto the Lord thy God (Deut. 25:14-16).

Israel was taught to observe equity and honesty in all business transactions. A false balance is abomination to the Lord: but a just weight is His delight (Prov. 11:1). Questionable half-truths of anyone is abominable before God. Christianity goes beyond these rules. Jesus said: All things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the Law and the Prophets (Matt. 7:12). The Christian must govern his daily transactions in a way that conforms to the character of his Heavenly Father. All misrepresentations, or taking advantage of others, are abhorred by the Lord. To refuse to pay our debts is dishonest.

Christians are to live by the law of love: Let love be without dissimulation (hypocrisy). Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good. Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another; Not slothful in business (Rom. 12:9-11).

Often the believer will be faced with innumerable disappointments, deceived by someone he trusts, or injured by others he has helped to benefit. But all these disappointments give the true Christian an opportunity to exercise the character and nature of God in the spirit of forgiving love and long-suffering. By this shall all men know that ye are My disciples, if ye have love one to another (John 13:35. For this reason: Let us not love in word (only), neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth (I John 13:18).

Our Lord admonishes us to think of our neighbor as our equal and someone whom God loves and whom Jesus gave His life to save. He persuades us to consider our neighbor's best interest. We should ask ourselves: "If he were where I am, and I were where he is, how would I want him to treat me in this transaction?" We need to: Look not every man on his own things, but every man on the things of others (Phil. 2:4).

Thought for Today:

For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows (I Tim. 6:10).
Christ Revealed:

Through the deliverance of the Israelites from Egypt and Pharaoh (Deut. 26:. Our Lord Jesus Christ . . . gave Himself for our sins, that He might deliver us from this present evil world (Gal. 1:3-4).
Word Studies:

24:3 hate dislike; 24:4 abomination detestable; 24:10 pledge to loan, security; 25:1 unto judgment to court; 25:13 divers different; 26:5 sojourned dwelled temporarily; 26:6 evil entreated us treated us harshly; bondage cruel slavery; 26:10 set offer; 26:14 in my mourning on distress, defiled ceremonially; hearkened listened; 26:18 peculiar people areasured possession; 26:19 holy consecrated; 27:11 charged commanded; 27:15 an abomination a detestable thing; 27:16 setteth light by disgraces, dishonors; 27:19 perverteth the judgment denies justice or the rights; 27:24 smiteth strikes, kills; 27:25 taketh reward accepts a bribe; 27:26 confirmeth not fails to live by word of this Law.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Linda Stalter • Staff: Clarence Rathbone • Country: Zaire, Democratic Republic of the Congo (63 million) in south-central Africa • Major languages: French and Lingala • Limited religious freedom • 42% Roman Catholic; 28% Protestant; 12% magical practices, ancestor worship, and witchcraft; 1% Muslim • Prayer Suggestion: Be of one heart and mind with other Christians (I Cor. 1:10).
Optional Reading: Luke 24

Memory Verse for the Week:I Peter 1:22

[Judy Harder]

March 10, 2011   

Read Deuteronomy 28

Highlights:

This powerful chapter has been used by the Holy Spirit to bring many to receive Christ as their Savior as well as to warn of the destruction of those who ignore Him.
The pathway of conquest was linked with Israel's obedience to the Word of God. Why? Just continue reading. It's very important for us. As God possessed Israel, they could, in turn, possess Canaan. God desired Israel to recognize the direct relation between conduct and destiny in all relationships of life. Thou shalt not seek their peace nor their prosperity all thy days for ever (Deut. 23:6).

The Lord shall establish thee an holy people unto Himself . . . if thou shalt keep the Commandments of the Lord thy God, and walk in His ways. . . . if thou wilt not . . . all these curses shall come upon thee, and overtake thee (28:9,15). They were to see that submission to God and enjoyment of life are bound together as an inflexible spiritual principle for themselves and today's Christians. On the other hand, the inevitable consequence of sin would reduce them to failure, misery, and final ruin. This is also the basic guide for all of us.

If Israel would not obey God, they would eventually be forced to serve their enemies. Because thou servedst not the Lord . . . Therefore shalt thou serve thine enemies . . . and He shall put a yoke of iron upon thy neck (28:47-48).

Because of indifference or ignorance many Christians, like the Israelites, have never realized the importance of obedience in obtaining the protection and provision of God.

The Law revealed what was right. But, the Law did not provide the indwelling Holy Spirit the power to do what was right. However, God sent His own Son to die on the cross for our sins that the righteousness of the Law might be fulfilled in us (Rom. 8:3-4). Jesus said that the indwelling Spirit of Truth . . . He will guide you into all Truth . . . and . . . He will glorify me (John 16:13-14).

Give up anything that is not according to the will of God. As you read through all of the Bible,the Word of God is quick (living and active), and powerful (Heb. 4:12), providing the strength to do what is best for your life. Wherefore laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, and all evil speakings, As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the Word, that ye may grow thereby (I Pet. 2:1-2).

He that hath My Commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth Me: and he that loveth Me shall be loved of My Father, and I will love him (John 14:21).

Thought for Today:

Who can utter the mighty acts of the Lord? who can shew forth all His praise (Ps. 106:2)?
Christ Portrayed:

As the One from whom our blessings come (Deut. 28:1-2). Blessed be . . . God . . . who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings . . . in Christ (Eph. 1:3).
Word Studies:

28:4 fruit of thy body children; fruit of thy ground produce; 28:7 smitten struck, defeated; 28:13 observe guard with your life and obey, the same Hebrew word translated keep in many places; 28:20 vexation confusion, frustration, trouble; 28:21 pestilence disease; consumed destroyed; 28:23 iron unproductive; 28:26 fray scare; 28:28 madness insanity; astonishment of heart bewilderment; 28:29 spoiled robbed, exploited; 28:32 fail with longing yearn, suffer emotionally; 28:33 eat up take away; 28:40 coasts territory, borders; 28:41 go into captivity be taken as slaves; 28:43 within thee living among you; 28:44 head chief, leader; 28:46 seed descendants; 28:48 a yoke of iron oppression; 28:50 regard respect; 28:52 fenced fortified; 28:53 straitness hardship; 28:56 tender young, timid; delicate weak; evil hostile; 28:58 fear have reverential heartfelt submission to and respect for; fearful awe-inspiring; 28:59 plagues diseases, disasters; wonderful extraordinarily great; 28:68 bondmen sale slaves.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Country: Zambia (10 million) in south-central Africa • Major languages: English and 70 indigenous languages • Religious freedom • 30% Roman Catholic; 25% Protestant; 24% ancestor worship, magic, and witchcraft; 19% cults • Prayer Suggestion: Ask the Lord to give you discernment in all decisions (I Cor. 2:12-14).
Optional Reading: John 1

Memory Verse for the Week: I Peter 1:22

[Judy Harder]

March 11, 2011   

Read Deuteronomy 29 -- 31

Highlights:

Moses begins his last words to Israel. He reviews their past, once again clearly emphasizing the blessings of obedience. He pleads with them: Choose life (Deut. 30:19).
Moses finished his ministry as the lawgiver and leader of Israel. The aged guide to the promised land is speaking his third discourse to Israel. He becomes more earnest as he declares: I command thee this day to love the Lord . . . walk in His ways . . . keep His Commandments. . . . choose life . . . for He is thy life (Deut. 30:16-20). The final words of Moses were: Be strong and of a good courage (31:6). But they ignored Moses' instruction. As a result, the Israelite kingdom was defeated; and the people were driven into captivity.

Jesus said there were only two ways to live; either the Broad Way that leadeth to destruction (Matt. 7:13) or the Narrow Way which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it (7:14). There is no neutral choice. Moses appealed to them to love the Lord thy God . . . to keep His Commandments (30:16). Their obedience would determine success in their outcome. He is thy life (30:20).

When our greatest desire is to please our Savior and soon-coming King, we will ask ourselves: "Am I devoting my life to seeking first the Kingdom of God, and His righteousness (Matt. 6:33) or am I doing what is of my own concern to me in secular self-satisfaction? We must face the fact that everyone will give an account for every day of their life (Eccl. 12:14; II Cor. 5:10). True fulfillment and satisfaction are the outcome of a life which recognizes the importance of being a servant of the King of kings.

We who know Christ as our Savior and Lord should ask ourselves: "Do I demonstrate in my daily conduct and conversation that I have chosen to please the One who satisifes the deepest longings of my heart and who provides my every need?"

Jesus died for all our sins and, as our Redeemer, His death on the cross translates us into a new life. We have chosen life . . . for He is thy life. Henceforth, by virtue of His atonement, sin shall not have dominion over you (Rom. 6:14). Since we have chosen His leadership, the indwelling Holy Spirit makes it possible for us to live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; Looking for that blessed hope, and glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ (Titus 2:12-13).

Godliness is profitable . . . having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come (I Tim 4:.

Thought for Today:

Abstain from all appearances of evil (I Thess. 5:22).
Christ Revealed:

As life (Deut. 30:15). Jesus is The Resurrection, and The Life (John 11:25).
Word Studies:

29:17 abominations detestable things; 30:3 turn thy captivity restore you from captivity; 30:4 unto the outmost parts of (under) heaven to the ends of earth; 30:9 plenteous prosperous; 30:18 denounce announce; 30:19 record witness; 31:10 solemnity appointed time; 31:12 stranger foreigner; 31:14 charge commission; 31:16 go a whoring after the gods of the strangers be unfaithful to the One True God; 31:17 devoured consumed, destroyed; 31:21 sware promised.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Lt. Col. and Mrs. Walter W. Swanson • Government Officials: Gov. Matthew Mead (WY), Rep. Jesse Jackson, Jr. (IL), and Justice Antonin Scalia • Staff: Barbara Bivens • Country: Zimbabwe (11.2 million) in south-central Africa • Major languages: English and Shona • Limited religious freedom • 59% Christian; 35% Traditional; 2% Muslim; 4% Other/non-Religious (Hindu, Buddhist, Baha'i, Jewish) • Prayer Suggestion: Pray and lift up your prayers to God with the spirit of understanding (I Cor. 14:15).
Optional Reading: John 2

Memory Verse for the Week: I Peter 1:22

[Judy Harder]

March 12, 2011   

Read Deuteronomy 32 -- 34

Highlights:

The prophetic Song of Moses (Deut. 32:1-43). Don't miss how to prolong your days (32:46-47)! Moses blesses the 12 tribes; death of Moses; Joshua succeeds Moses.
There is spiritual insight in the last words spoken by Moses to this second generation: There is none like unto the God of Jeshurun (Israel). . . . The eternal God is thy Refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms: and He shall thrust out the enemy before thee (Deut. 33:26-27).

There is enough power in the outstretched arms of our Lord to lift up every downcast person. His love reaches out to care for the most degraded one and to protect and shelter even the weakest. His arms have power unlimited and unconquerable. The everlasting arms are a great comfort to the child of God in the midst of this world's perplexities and conflicts which threaten to discourage, defeat, and destroy us every day. His everlasting arms extend far enough to embrace every person in the world. They are strong enough never to get weary and open enough to accept anyone who will come to Him.

Although we have wandered far from Him into paths of sin, God is merciful and longsuffering. He has revealed His love by providing for our return through His blood, the atonement of His Son, our Savior Jesus Christ. Being now justified by His blood, we shall be saved from wrath through Him (Rom. 5:9). By the power of the Holy Spirit our Lord draws us to Himself and saves us from otherwise inevitable hell so that we may enjoy eternal life with Him. It is of the utmost importance that we seek . . . the Lord while He may be found, call . . . upon Him while He is near (Is. 55:6).

Having God as our refuge does not imply that we will have a great abundance of this world's possessions or will be free from cares and sorrows. Some saints of God were stoned, they were sawn asunder, were tempted, were slain with the sword: they wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins; being destitute, afflicted, tormented (Heb. 11:37). All trials and sufferings are tests of our faith as well as a means of developing our spiritual insights. We are more than conquerors through Him that loved us (Rom. 8:37). Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love Him (I Cor. 2:9).

In every decree that issues from His throne, He has in view the final redemption of His faithful people.

We have but one purpose in life: Seek . . . first the Kingdom of God, and His righteousness (Matt. 6:33).

Thought for Today:

Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when His glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy (I Pet. 4:12-13).
Christ Revealed:

As our Rock (Deut. 32:31). Christ was that spiritual Rock (Petra) that followed (accompanied) them (I Cor. 10:4).
Word Studies:

32:3 publish proclaim; 32:19 abhorred despised; 32:20 froward disloyal, perverse, corrupt; 32:41 whet sharpen; 32:44 Hoshea Joshua; 33:9 Covenant binding agreement with all qualifications given by God; 33:28 corn grain; 33:29 tread upon their high places trample down their heathen altars; 34:2 utmost sea mediterranean; 34:6 sepulchre grave; 34:7 abated lessened; 34:12 great terror marvelous deeds.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Official: Sen. Kent Conrad (ND) • Staff: Clarence Rathbone • Country: Afghanistan (22.7 million) in central Asia • Major languages: Pastu and Afghan Persian (Dari) • Hostile to Christian evangelization. For a Muslim to convert to Christianity is automatic execution • 97.5% Muslim; 1.5% Parsee; .35% Hindu; .1% Traditional ethic; .1% Baha'i; .02% Christian; .02% Sikh; .01% non-Religious • Prayer Suggestion: Pray that the Lord will enable you to comfort and encourage others (II Cor. 1:3-4).
Optional Reading: John 3

Memory Verse for the Week: I Peter 1:22

[Judy Harder]

March 13, 2011   

Read Joshua 1 -- 3

Highlights:

God chooses Joshua to lead this great multitude. See the miracles as the feet of the priests touch the water. After 40 years, the two million children of the adults who were delivered from Egypt enter their promised land.
Joshua was born into Egyptian slavery but, during the desert trials, he became a coworker with Moses. Joshua's faith in God and His promises almost caused him to be stoned to death when he urged the nation to advance into Canaan about forty years earlier (Num. 14:6-10). Now the Lord spoke to him: Moses My servant is dead . . . arise, go over this Jordan, thou, and all this people, unto the land which I do give to them. . . . I will not fail thee . . . Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid . . . for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest (Josh. 1:2,5,9).

To be brought out of Egypt was one thing, but it was altogether another thing to go over this Jordan (1:2) and, thus, become committed to battle against the powerful Canaanites with their chariots of iron, walled cities, and armies of giants. A similar situation will face all of the redeemed. There must be once and for all an abandonment of self to the will of God — making Him Lord of our lives so that, from that point on, the will of God will be first in every decision.

Jordan must be crossed by all of us. Jesus died once for all sin and by His death we may receive Him as our Savior. By virtue of His atonement, sin has no more dominion over us. Under His leadership we can, by faith, defeat the spiritual enemies of lust, hate, jealousy, and fear. We must follow Him through the Jordan River; that is, we too must die to sin and rise again unto righteousness. The river separated the wilderness from the promised land. Our "river" is an eternal boundary between our condition by nature and our condition by grace. The waters of Jordan are likened by some to the waters of baptism, whereby we who have been baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into His 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. 6:3-4). By the power of God alone we are changed from wanderers and outcasts into the covenant people of God when we present your (our) bodies a living sacrifice. . . . not conformed to this world (12:1-2).

Without faith it is impossible to please Him: for 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:

To make known to the sons of men His mighty acts, and the glorious majesty of His kingdom (Ps. 145:12).
Christ Revealed:

Through the scarlet line in the window that saved Rahab and her household — symbolic of the blood of Christ (Josh. 2:21; Heb. 11:31; James 2:25). The blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanseth us from all sin (I John 1:7).
Word Studies:

1:1 minister assistant; 1:4 coast territory, boundary; 1:15 rest peace; sunrising fast; 1:17 hearkened unto obeyed; 2:17 blameless free, released; swear promise under oath; 2:19 on our head our responsibility; 2:20 quit free; 3:16 Salt Sea dead Sea; against opposite
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Officials: Gov. John Hoeven (ND), Rep. Anh "Joseph" Cao (LA), and Rep. Alan Grayson (FL) • Staff: Pam Pendergrast • Country: Albania (3.1 million) in southeastern Europe • Major languages: Albanian and Greek • Newly opened to evangelism • 41.5% Christian; 39% Muslim; 18.5% non-Religious/Other; .2% Baha'i; .01% Jewish • Prayer Suggestion: Pray that God will enable you to be a generous, cheerful giver to Him (II Cor. 9:6-7).
Optional Reading: John 4

Memory Verse for the Week: I Peter 2:1

[Judy Harder]

Read Joshua 4 -- 6

Highlights:

Twelve stones are a testimony that the hand of the Lord . . . is mighty (Josh. 4:20-24). The Israelites enter a new chapter in their lives by the Covenant of cirumcision (Gen. 17:10-14) and celebrating Passover. Then the walls of Jericho come tumbling down (Josh. chap. 6)!
Joshua led the nation of Israel over the Jordan River into the promised land. He faced the task of leading this unstable nation into battle against giant enemies within well-fortified, high-walled cities protected by armies with chariots. As he considered all this, behold, there stood a Man over against him with His sword drawn in His hand: and Joshua went unto Him, and said unto Him, Art Thou for us, or for our adversaries? And He said, Nay; but as Captain of the host of the Lord am I now come (Josh. 5:13-14).

The Captain of the host (the army of the Lord) is the Hero of this Book and every Book in the Bible and of any life devoted to pleasing God, for this is Christ revealed to us in the Old Testament. Joshua fell on his face . . . and did worship (5:14).

The question Joshua had to face was not one of receiving help, but of accepting leadership of the Captain of the host.

When believers submit to the leadership of the Lord, all other fears vanish. It is His place to lead; it is our place to follow by faith. The Bible contains everything needful to make us wise unto salvation (II Tim. 3:15). The Holy Spirit confirms this through the Apostle Paul who was led to write: Though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed (Gal. 1:.

It is important that we read all the Bible, for in the Word of God we discover the wisdom of God who dictated all of it. Incredibly, we discover God Himself. All Scripture is . . . profitable . . . for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect (well prepared) . . . for every good work (II Tim. 3:15-16).

The Law contains direction to be followed, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein (Josh. 1:. The command: This do, and thou shalt live (Luke 10:28) is common both to the Old and New Testaments. The difference is that Old Testament Law could tell us what was right but could not empower us to do it. As Christians, we have the indwelling Holy Spirit to guide us and empower us to overcome every temptation (I Cor. 10:13). Obedience is proof of our love for Christ who said: If a man love Me, he will keep My words: and My Father will love him, and We will come unto him (John 14:23). But, we can't keep something we don't know. Hereby we do know that we know Him, if we keep His Commandments (I John 2:3).

Thought for Today:

Praise Him for His mighty acts: praise Him according to His excellent greatness (Ps. 150:2).
Christ Portrayed:

As the Captain of the host of the Lord (Josh. 5:14). Christ is the Captain of our salvation (Heb. 2:10).
Word Studies:

4:6 sign memorial monument; 4:11 clean passed finished crossing; 4:14 magnified exalted; 4:20 pitch get up; 5:11 old corn produce from previous harvest; unleavened feast-free; 5:14 host of the Lord army of the Lord; 6:1 straitly shut up carefully barricaded; 6:3 compass march around; 6:9 rereward rear guard; 6:19 consecrated sacred, set apart to the Lord; 6:26 adjured them required an oath of them; 6:27 noised spread abroad.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in memory of Henry Rogers • Government Official: Sen. Tom Coburn (OK) • Staff: Rita Guerra • Country: Algeria (31.5 million) in North Africa • Major languages: Arabic and French • Opposition to the Gospel is intense • 96.7% Muslim; 3% non-Religious; .29% Christian; .01% Baha'i • Prayer Suggestion: Realize that the will of God is often different from our own desires (II Cor. 12:8-9).
Optional Reading: John 5

Memory Verse for the Week: I Peter 2:1

[Judy Harder]

Read Joshua 7 -- 8

Highlights:

Sin of Achan; Israel defeated by Ai; judgment of Achan; Ai defeated; altar on Mount Ebal; Covenant renewed. What was read to Israel is very important for us to know.
One of the most remarkable victories in Israel's history was the destruction of Jericho in which there had not been one Israelite casualty. Afterward, Joshua assumed continued success when he sent spies to assess the strength of Ai. Upon their return, they confidently said: Let not all the people go up . . . and smite Ai . . . for they are but few (Josh. 7:3). Joshua and his "committee" did not seek instruction from the Lord but formed their own plan to overcome Ai.

Three thousand Israelites fought Ai presuming God was with them. Thirty-six men died in this battle which ended in Israel's defeat. One of the most alarming facts of this downfall is that Joshua and all the people were unaware that the Lord was not with them in this battle.

Joshua was quick to blame God for this shocking defeat (7:7). But God said: Israel hath sinned, and they have also transgressed My Covenant. . . . Therefore the children of Israel could not stand before their enemies, but turned their backs before their enemies (7:11-12). Achan, a soldier of God at Jericho, confessed that he was guilty of bringing defeat on his countrymen. However, God, in His wisdom, exposed the fact that Israel hath sinned, they have transgressed.

Joshua and his "committee" — not the Lord — unanimously decided what action was to be taken, which resulted in failure. It is important to see how often the Bible records: The Lord spake unto Joshua . . . Arise, go (1:1-7; 4:1,8,10,15; 6:2 etc.). We see the alarming contrast between Joshua 6:2-5 where God gave the orders and Joshua 7:2-3 where Joshua decided what he thought should be done.

The prophet reminds us: O Lord, I know that the way of man is not in himself: it is not in man that walketh to direct his steps (Jer. 10:23).

Furthermore, we need to obey the Word that says: Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths (Prov. 3:5-6).

It is possible to be caught up with much activity in service but fail to pray and wait upon Him for guidance. In the defeat at Ai, we see the meaning of the words of our Lord Himself: Without Me ye can do nothing (John 15:5).

Thought for Today:

For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given: and the government shall be upon His shoulder: and His Name shall be called Wonderful, Counseller, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace (Is. 9:6).
Christ Revealed:

Through the uncut stones at the altar (Josh. 8:31). Daniel saw Christ as a Stone which was not cut by human hands (Dan. 2:34,45). Jesus is our Chief Corner Stone (I Pet. 2:6; Matt. 21:42).
Word Studies:

7:1 the anger of the Lord was kindled against the Lord was furious with (7:26); 7:6 rent tore; put dust upon their heads, expressed intense sorrow by defiling their heads; 7:9 environ us round surround us; against before; 7:11 dissembled received; 7:13 sanctify consecrate, cleanse, make undefiled; against before; 7:18 taken chosen; 7:26 Achor trouble; 8:11 pitched camped; 8:13 liers in wait concealed ambushers.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Officials: Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin (WV), and Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg • Country: Andorra (78,000) in the eastern Pyrenees between France and Spain • Major languages: Catalan and French • Official freedom of religion • 94% Christian; 4% non-Religious; .6% Muslim; .9% Other • Prayer Suggestion: Ask to be guided by the Holy Spirit (Gal. 5:16).
Optional Reading: John 6

Memory Verse for the Week: I Peter 2:1

[Judy Harder]

Read Joshua 9 -- 10

Highlights:

Israel's treaty with Gibeon. Just as all of us tend to be rather gullible when we don't seek the Lord's guidance, the Israelites are deceived by a heathen nation (Josh. 9:3-5). Years later their past comes back to haunt them (II Sam. 21:1-9). Joshua battles five kings and their armies. He prays for a miracle and receives it (Josh. 10:12-13).
The Gibeonites knew they could not stand against the power of God; therefore, they resorted to deceiving Joshua. He was unaware that they were Canaanites whom God said were to be destroyed because of their wickedness.The men of Israel. . . . asked not counsel at the mouth of the Lord. And Joshua made peace with (the Gibeonites) (Josh. 9:7,14-15).

Many years later this resulted in a devastating famine in Israel during David's reign. Even Joshua, a great man of faith who could say: Sun, stand thou still (10:12), experienced how impossible it is to discern the will of God by human judgment and intelligence. Ask counsel . . . of God (Judg. 18:5).

How easy it is to make a decision based on what seems best and fail to pray for the will of God who said: If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, who giveth to all men liberally (James 1:5)! But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned (I Cor. 2:14). The natural mind is no match for the supernatural power of Satan. We wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world (Eph. 6:12). As the people of God, we need not be overcome or conquered by any force of the enemy because knowing the Word of God, we can pray according to His will.

It is a sin to knowingly disobey God or ignore His Word. As we read the Bible, let us pray for His direction, so that we do what is right in His eyes. That is why it is so important to read and reread all the Bible since all Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable . . . That the man of God may be . . . throughly furnished (fully prepared) unto all good works (II Tim. 3:16-17). No other book is inspired of God.

Only eternity will reveal how much we followed the leading of God through His Word and prayer.

Our faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God. . . . for the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God. For it is written, He taketh the wise in their own craftiness (I Cor. 2:5; 3:19).

Thought for Today:

Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous (I Pet. 3:.
Christ Revealed:

As the One through whom we have victory (Josh. 10:25). Thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ (I Cor. 15:57).
Word Studies:

9:1 great sea mediterranean Sea; 9:4 wine bottles wineskins; rent torn; 9:5 clouted matched; 9:6 league treaty; 9:15 sware satified it with an oath in the Name of God; 9:21 hewers of wood woodcutters; 9:22 beguiled received; 10:4 smite conquer; 10:6 Slack not thy hand from come with haste; 10:10 discomfited defeated in battle; 10:13 book of Jasher book of heroes (literally, "upright ones); hasted not delayed; 10:20 fenced fortified, walled; 10:21 moved his tongue uttered a word; 10:24 your feet upon the necks a symbol of mastery; 10:40 vale valley.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Official: Rep. Ron Kind (WI) • Staff: Ben Wallace • Country: Angola (11 million) in west-central Africa • Major languages: Portuguese and Bantu dialects • Christianity is gradually being driven underground by communism • 60% Roman Catholic; 20% Protestant; 5% belief in ancestor spirits, witches, and medicine men • Prayer Suggestion: Pray through the Name of Jesus Christ for it is by Him that we have access to God in prayer (Eph. 2:18).
Optional Reading: John 7

Memory Verse for the Week: I Peter 2:1