Bible Pathways

[Judy Harder]

March 27, 2011 

Read Judges 12 -- 14

Highlights:

The tribe of Ephraim rejects Jephthah from living in Israel, but later pleads with him to be their judge. See how their lives apply to us. The seventh servitude is to the Philistines, while Samson is judge.
The Israelites, because of their sins, had been slaves to the Philistines. How sad it is to read that the children of Israel did evil again in the sight of the Lord; and the Lord delivered them into the hand of the Philistines forty years (Judg. 13:1). During that time one cannot find one recorded prayer for deliverance.

One can behold a marvelous manifestation of the long-suffering and mercy of God when one couple prayed concerning their promised child: My Lord . . . teach us what we shall do unto the child that shall be born (13:. The woman bare a son, and called his name Samson: and the child grew, and the Lord blessed him. And the Spirit of the Lord began to move him at times (13:24-25).

Samson was anointed of God from birth to deliver Israel from the Philistines. He was given unlimited opportunities, but his life was filled with failure because of undisciplined, self-serving desires. This is exemplified when Samson decided to marry a Philistine and said to his parents: Get her for me; for she pleaseth me well (14:3). Even though Samson's life was filled with strife, lust for women proved to be his downfall. Nothing is more pathetic than to see the powerful self-centered Samson imprisoned by the Philistines, blinded and forced to grind grain like an animal when he could have been reigning over the nation that had made him a slave.

Like Samson, some allow pride and selfish desires to defeat their God-given purpose in life when they refuse to yield to Christ as Lord of their lives. Christ alone gives our lives value as He makes us a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new (II Cor. 5:17). Only to the extent that we allow Christ to guide each day of our lives shall we be able to truly fulfill His will.

The Christian has been purchased with a great price — the precious blood of Jesus (Heb. 13:12). Therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's (I Cor. 6:20). By right of His purchase, the authority over our lives should be God.

Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with Him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin (Rom. 6:6).

Thought for Today:

The weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds (II Cor. 10:4).
Christ Portrayed:

By Samson, who, as a Nazarite, was to be consecrated to God from the womb (birth) to the day of his death (Judg. 13:7). Jesus was also set apart and consecrated to God from the womb to the day of His death on the cross. Unlike Samson, who failed God, Jesus totally fulfilled the will of God as He said He would do when He left heaven saying: Lo, I come . . . to do Thy will, O God (Heb. 10:7).
Word Studies:

12:6 frame pronounce it right; 13:6 terrible awe-inspiring, evoking profound respect; 14:4 occasion against opportunity to destroy, but once again Samson became sidetracked; 14:17 lay sore upon him festered, persisted, and cried.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Country: Belarus (10 million) in northeastern Europe • Major languages: Belarussian and Russian • Religious freedom • 48% Orthodox; 22% Roman Catholic; 1.1% Jewish; 1% Protestant; .2% Muslim; 27.7% Agnostic/Atheist/Other Prayer Suggestion: Put on God's whole armor so that you may be able to successfully stand up against Satan's evil attacks (Eph. 6:11).
Optional Reading: John 18

Memory Verse for the Week: I Peter 4:15

[Judy Harder]

March 28, 2011   

Read Judges 15 -- 17

Highlights:

Samson loses his wife; in revenge, he destroys the Philistines' crops. A thousand Philistines are slain by him. The Delilah escapade results in Philistines capturing and blinding him; his prayer is answered. Micah's idols a warning (chap. 17).
The Israelites ignored their calling as a holy nation and their loyalty to God, the real King of Israel, and they soon fell into idol-worship. Four times we read: In those days there was no king in Israel (Judg. 17:6; 18:1; 19:1; 21:25). Some, like those in the tribe of Dan (chap. 18), foolishly conform only to what would be right in his own eyes or acceptable to their friends. Twice we read: Every man did that which was right in his own eyes (17:6; 21:25). It is not surprising to see Israel being defeated by enemy nations. How easily deceit can mislead people who do not let Jesus Christ, our Creator (Col. 1:12-16) guide their lives. They wrongly assume that they can worship Jehovah while living to satisfy their lusts.

It is popular today to say: "It doesn't matter what you believe, as long as you're sincere." The fact is that you can be sincerely wrong. We need to study to shew thyself (ourselves) approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the Word of Truth (II Tim. 2:15). Others say: "Let your conscience be your guide." But God has warned: Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding (Prov. 3:5).

Perhaps the greatest heresy today is the growing trend to believe that all religions have the same god but merely use various names. Jesus of Nazareth, who was born in Bethlehem, declared: I am The Way, The Truth, and The Life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by Me (John 14:6). The apostle Paul wrote: There is but One God, the Father . . . and One Lord Jesus Christ (I Cor. 8:6). Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name given under heaven among men, whereby we must be saved (Acts 4:12).

When Jesus Christ the Creator is our Savior and Lord, our chief concern will be: "Will His new life within me guide my thoughts and actions?"

Worship belongs only to God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit (I John 5:7). It's all recorded in just one Book, the Bible. Believers are commissioned to preach the Word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine . . . And they shall turn away their ears from the Truth (II Tim. 4:2-4).

Thought for Today:

And what is the exceeding greatness of His power toward us who believe, according to the working of His mighty power (Eph. 1:19).
Christ Revealed:

Through the strength God gave to Samson for his last victory over the Philistines (Judg. 16:28-30). I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me (Phil. 4:13).
Word Studies:

15:2 hated disliked; 15:3 a displeasure great evil; 16:5 afflict him hold him captive; 16:16 vexed destered, harassed, annoyed; 16:21 fetters chains; 16:25 make us sport entertain us; 17:5 teraphim household idols.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Iva Jo Swinsburg • Government Official: Rep. Nydia M. Velazquez (NY) • Country: Belgium (10.2 million) in northwestern Europe • Major languages: Flemish and French • Religious freedom • 74% Catholic; 3% Muslim; 1% Protestant; .5% Orthodox; 20% Secular Humanism; 1.5% Other • Prayer Suggestion: Realize that prayer is one of the ways God uses to strengthen you in the power of His might (Eph. 6:18).
Optional Reading: John 19

Memory Verse for the Week: I Peter 4:15

[Judy Harder]

March 29, 2011 

Read Judges 18 -- 19

Highlights:

Danites force Micah's Levite to be their priest; they attack Laish, then occupy it. A concubine is victimized. Many of the Israelites yielded to their own lusts and self-interest rather than the will of God.
When the promised land was distributed by Joshua, considerable territory was allotted to the tribe of Dan (Josh. 19:40-46). But, submission and obedience to the will of God was missing. As a result, they did not succeed in defeating the inhabitants as God had commanded them to do. Because of the Danites' sins, God allowed the Amorites to force the children of Dan into the mountain and did not let them descend into the plains (Judg. 1:34-35).

The tribe of the Danites sought them an (another) inheritance to dwell in (18:1). There is no indication that the tribe of Dan prayed for forgiveness for their sins or for guidance to do the will of God. Instead of fighting for the territory which God had appointed, they chose to go north beyond the promised land. The area was inhabited by a quiet, peaceful people whom they massacred indiscriminately — men, women, and children. If they had remained in the territory which God had appointed them to possess, they would have been close to those who worshiped the One True God. Instead, on the way to their new territory, five spies from their tribe barged into the house of idol-worshiping Micah, stole his gods, and bribed his priest to go with them to "serve" their religious desires (18:14-31).

Notice Micah's spiritual concern when "his gods" were stolen. Ye have taken away my gods which I made , and the priest, and ye are gone away: and what have I more (left)? (18:24). When someone stole his god, he thought he had lost the most important thing in his life.

Micah illustrates a person who may be sincere but is sincerely wrong. This points out that whatever or whoever a person allows to be his supreme love becomes his god. It may be children, grandchildren, money, sports, hunting, or fishing, etc. Nothing on earth which can be stolen or destroyed can take the place of the True Eternal God as our supreme object of worship. If Christ is truly first in our lives, then, when we experience loss, we can say: The Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken away; blessed be the Name of the Lord (Job 1:21).

Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils (I Tim. 4:1).

Thought for Today:

To you who are troubled rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with His mighty angels (II Thess. 1:7).
Christ Revealed:

In those days there was no King in Israel (Judg. 18:1). Christ was the rejected King of Israel. Pilate saith unto them, Shall I crucify your King? The chief priests answered, We have no king but Caesar (John 19:15).
Word Studies:

18:2 coasts territory; 18:9 still still here doing nothing; 18:15 saluted have a friendly greeting to; 18:19 lay thine hand upon thy mouth stop complaining or else suffer the consequences; 18:21 carriage goods; 19:4 retained him dressed him to stay; 19:6 let thine heart be merry enjoy yourself; 19:17 wayfaring traveling; 19:21 provender fodder; 19:25 spring dawn; 19:29 coasts territory.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Official: Rep. Travis Childers (MS) • BIble Pathway Printer: Ambrose Printing Staff, Nashville, TN • Country: Belize (236,000) on the eastern coast of Central America • Major languages: English and Spanish • Religious freedom • 64% Roman Catholic; 26% Protestant; 2% spiritist/animist; 1% Hindu; 1% Muslim; 1% Baha'i • Prayer Suggestion: Pray that Christ will be seen through you (Phil. 1:20-21).
Optional Reading: John 20

Memory Verse for the Week: I Peter 4:15

[Judy Harder]

March 30, 2011 

Read Judges 20 -- 21

Highlights:

Civil war between Benjamites and other tribes; Benjamites defeated and the results.
From Dan to Beersheba, all the tribes of Israel gathered to punish the sins committed at Gibeah by a few perverted men of Benjamin. Tolerance toward Benjamin would have been treason to Jehovah — a principle too often forgotten. Sixty-five thousand men died in three great battles and the tribe of Benjamin was almost destroyed.

The tribe of Benjamin refused to allow justice to be done to the homosexual mob that gang-raped a defenseless Israelite woman causing her death (Judg. 20:5,13). All the other tribes of Israel prayed: Which of us shall go up first to the battle against the children of Benjamin? And the Lord said, Judah shall go up first (20:18).

It was only after two disastrous defeats at the hands of the Benjamites that the Israelites came unto the House of God, and wept . . . until even, and offered Burnt Offerings and Peace Offerings before the Lord (20:26). The Lord said, Go up; for to morrow I will deliver them into thine hand (20:28). Note that they offered sacrifices for their own sins. In deep humility, they committed themselves to the Lord. Clearly this illustrates how available our God is to provide guidance and victory when we submit ourselves to His Word. In the Scriptures we discover the plan of God when our desire is simply to do His will.

There is a growing indifference to immorality in our affluent society. Adultery is now called "having an affair." Homosexuality is replaced with "gay and lesbian" or "alternative lifestyles." Fornication is referred to as "live-in lovers." The purpose of this new vocabulary is to remove the sense of guilt for violating the moral Law of God and to make the sinner feel comfortable. However, while hating and exposing sin, we must also show mercy and kindness as we pray for and lovingly entreat all sinners to repent and come to Christ as Savior and Lord.

All sin is abominable to our holy God; however, all sin that is truly repented of and forsaken will be forgiven through the atoning blood of Jesus Christ (I John 1:9). The Apostle Paul reminded the Corinthians that some of them had been delivered from sexual sins: Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind . . . shall inherit the Kingdom of God. And such were (past tense) some of you: but ye are washed . . . sanctified (set apart), but ye are justified in the Name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God (I Cor. 6:9-11).

Thought for Today:

Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time (I Pet. 5:6).
Christ Revealed:

As our Deliverer (Judg. 20:26-28). As we pray and seek the Lord's will, He delivers us from all evil forces. Our Lord Jesus Christ . . . gave Himself for our sins, that He might deliver us from this present evil world according to the will of God (Gal. 1:3-4).
Word Studies:

20:5 forced raped; 20:6 lewdness and folly sinful, shameful disgrace; 20:13 children of Belial evil perverts; 20:34 sore fierce; 20:35 smote struck down; drew the sword were experienced soldiers; 20:41 amazed terrified; 20:42 turned their backs detreated, fled; 20:43 trode them down overtook them; sunrising fast; 20:45 gleaned cut off; 20:46 fell died; men of valour valiant warriors; 21:13 call peaceably proclaim peace.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Officials: Sen. Mark Begich (AK) and Rep. Gerald E. Connolly (VA) • Country: Benin (6 million) in western Africa • Major languages: French and tribal languages • Some hostility toward Christians • 59% animism and voodoo; 17% Muslim; 16% Roman Catholic; 3% Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: Pray that at all times you will find pleasure in what pleases the Lord (Phil. 2:13).
Optional Reading: John 21

Memory Verse for the Week: I Peter 4:15

[Judy Harder]

 March 31, 2011 
 
Read Ruth 1 -- 4
Highlights:

Famine; Elimelech and Naomi move down from Bethlehem to Moab; Naomi and Ruth return to Bethlehem; marriage of Boaz and Ruth.
A severe famine existed in Bethlehem. Elimelech, his wife Naomi, and their two sons left Bethlehem, which means "house of bread." They went to Moab in search of food and a better life. During the next 10 years Naomi's life was filled with bitterness, for it was during this time in Moab that she buried her husband and her two sons. In the meantime, Bethlehem became prosperous so Naomi decided to return. Naomi's daughter-in-law Ruth pleaded with her: Intreat me not to leave thee, or to return from following after thee: for whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest, I will lodge: thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God (Ruth 1:16).

Naomi and Ruth arrived in Bethlehem where Boaz, a type of Christ, assumed the right of "kinsman-redeemer." He purchased the inheritance of Naomi and took Ruth as his wife. Ruth became the mother of Obed . . . the father of Jesse, the father of David (4:17).

The Book of Ruth highlights the loving-kindness of our Lord toward the Gentiles in selecting Ruth, a Moabite woman, to become the great-grandmother of King David. For the third time (first through Tamar, then Rahab, and now Ruth), God united both Jew and Gentile in the ancestry of David and of our Lord Jesus, the Messiah (Matt. 1:3,5; Luke 3:32-33). There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus. . . . and heirs according to the promise (Gal. 3:28-29).

The thrilling conclusion is that, out of our most miserable failures, God will work something beautiful when we put our lives in His hands. Ruth's love for Naomi and for God overcame all the hostilities that existed between the Moabites and the Jews (Deut. 23:3-4), and she became an ancestress of Christ.

Her story should give encouragement and hope to the most despondent, helpless, defeated person. One may be discouraged and know that he has left "his Bethlehem" and gone into the land of sin and there buried all hope, but God can always bring something beautiful out of the most miserable circumstance when we turn to Him with our whole heart.

Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God (II Cor. 7:1).

Thought for Today:

That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God (Col. 1:10).
Christ Revealed:

Through Bethlehem (Ruth 2:4; 4:11), which means "House of Bread." Jesus, the Bread of Life, satisfies the spiritual hunger of all who come to Him. Then Jesus said unto them . . . I am the Bread of Life: he that cometh to Me shall never hunger (John 6:32-35).
Word Studies:

1:1 sojourn temporarily live; 1:16 Intreat ask; 1:19 moved stirred, concerned; 2:2 glean gather leftover; corn grain; 2:8 fast by close to; 2:9 touch molest, annoy; 2:14 sufficed satisfied; 2:15 reproach hinder; 2:16 of purpose deliberately; 2:19 where wroughtest thou where did you find so much; 2:20 kinsmen hear relatives who had the right to redeem; 3:3 raiment best attire; 3:4 mark notice; 3:8 afraid startled; 3:15 vail cloak, shawl; 3:18 finished the thing made good his promise; 4:4 advertise give you notice; 4:5 of the hand of from; 4:6 mar mine own inheritance endanger my heirs; 4:7 changing transferring ownership of land.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Dr. John A. Hash • Government Officials: Rep. Dennis Cardoza (CA), Rep. Jim Marshall (GA), Rep. Barney Frank (MA), Rep. Stephen Lynch (MA), and Sen. Patrick Leahy (VT) • Staff: Rick Hash • Country: Bhutan (2 million) in the eastern Himalayas of central Asia • Major languages: Tibetan and Nepalese dialects • Public worship, evangelism, and proselytization are illegal • 50-70% Buddhist; 24-45% Hindu; 5% Muslim; 1% Protestant/Roman Catholic • Prayer Suggestion: Rejoice that the Lord protects you and provides your needs (Phil. 4:4).
Optional Reading: Acts 1

Memory Verse for the Week: I Peter 4:15

[Judy Harder]

April 1, 2011 

Read I Samuel 1 -- 3
Highlights:

We learn three powerful truths. 1. Hannah prays earnestly. 2. God rewards her vow. God mightily uses Samuel as the first prominent prophet after Moses and the last judge of Israel (I Sam. 3:19-21; 7:15). 3. God requires parents to discipline their children in love as He does us (2:12-17,23-25; 3:12-13).
Samuel and the two sons of Eli, Hophni and Phinehas, grew up together in Shiloh. The two brothers were evil priests. In contrast, Samuel grew, and the Lord was with him, and did let none of his words fall to the ground (I Sam. 3:19). The Lord confirmed the word of His servant (Is. 44:26) because Samuel did not ignore anything that God had spoken. Samuel was true to his commitment when he said: Speak; for Thy servant heareth (I Sam. 3:10), meaning: "I will be a true spokesman of Your Word." God first spoke to Samuel one night when he was asleep (3:3). Samuel was quick to respond. This means that he didn't put it off until a "more convenient" time or respond in a halfhearted way. He recognized the high honor of serving God.

Consequently, the Lord revealed Himself to Samuel in Shiloh by the Word of the Lord (3:19,21). God is always looking for more Samuels.

Samuel stood out as a bright light in a time when the Word of the Lord was precious (meaning it was unknown by the majority of the people) (3:1). Indifference to and compromise of the Word of God prevailed among the priests and the people even though the Ark of the Covenant, representing the presence of God, was among them at Shiloh. Joshua had placed it there about 400 years earliers (Josh. 18:1).

The reason the Word of the Lord was not clearly understood then is the same reason it is not today by many who only preach what people want to hear and not the whole Word (Gal. 1:15-16). We cannot understand the Word of God or His will for our lives if we fail to read all the Bible. If we are truly concerned about pleasing the Lord, we will desire to keep His Commandments. Jesus taught that the Old Testament is necessary to fully recognize Him as Savior and Lord in the New Testament. Beginning at Moses (Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy) and all the prophets (Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, Daniel, Hosea, Joel, etc.), He (Jesus) expounded unto them in all the Scriptures the things concerning Himself (Luke 24:27). Now these things were our examples (I Cor. 10:6). From Genesis to Revelation, the history of the people of God illustrates spiritual truth for Christians today. All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable (Matt. 4:4; II Tim. 3:16).

Thought for Today:

Because Thy lovingkindness is better than life, my lips shall praise Thee (Ps. 63;3).
Christ Portrayed:

By Samuel who grew in favor with God and men (I Sam. 2:26). Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man (Luke 2:52).
Word Studies:

1:6 sore without mercy; 1:16 daughter of Belial sinful woman; 2:1 horn strength; is enlarged rejoices greatly; 2:8 the pillars of the earth are the Lord's God alone sustains and upholds the earth; 2:10 His King . . . His Anointed Messiah; this is the first reference to Jesus' coming by the title Messiah; 2:13 in seething being cooked; 2:15 sodden boiled; 2:29 Wherefore kick ye why do you rebel?; 2:31 cut off thine arm break your strength; 3:18 every whit everything.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for our Military worldwide • International Broadcasts sponsored by Mary Hoffmeyer• Government Officials: Justice Samuel Alito and Rep. Chris Lee (NY) • Country: Bolivia (8 million) in South America • Major languages: Spanish and Quechua • Religious freedom • 92% Roman Catholic; 3% Protestant; 3% Baha'i • Prayer Suggestion: Do not worry about anything, but pray about everything (Phil. 4:6).
Optional Reading: Acts 2

NOTE: Bible Pathway covers the Old Testament with devotional and commentary insights over a nine-month period, January through September. Each day during these months, an optional reading of one chapter a day from the New Testament will also be listed. The October, November, and December issues will provide a daily commentary on the New Testament readings. Thus, the reader goes through the New Testament twice each year using the Bible Pathway plan.

Memory Verse for the Week: I Peter 4:15

[Judy Harder]

 April 2, 2011 
 
Read I Samuel 4 -- 7
Highlights:

Talk about being shocked! The ninety-eight-year-old priest Eli hears that they lost the war, his two sons were killed, and the Ark of God is taken (I Sam. 4:17,22). This is a reminder of the judgment of God (2:27-34). See what God did to the Philistines (5:1-12) and their plan to get rid of the Ark (6:2-9).
During the time of Eli and his two sons, Israel once again drifted far from the Lord. For many years they had been under control of the Philistines. During this time, nothing was said of godly Samuel who was growing to manhood while heathen worship permeated the promised land. Israel's spiritual indifference, false worship, and participation in corrupt practices had existed for many years.

After Samuel became judge, we read: All the house of Israel lamented after the Lord (I Sam. 7:2). They also fasted on that day and confessed: We have sinned against the Lord (7:6). Their confession of sin was followed by a desire to be obedient to the Word of God as recorded in Deuteronomy 6:13-14.

Our sinful ways also must be confessed and forsaken. We know godly sorrow worketh repentance (II Cor. 7:10). There must be a determination to put away our sins, just as Israel put away (the false gods of) Baalim and Ashtaroth (I Sam. 7:4).

Samuel led the Israelites to Mizpeh. After their public confession of sin against Jehovah, Samuel judged the people of Israel (7:6). His first responsibility was to be their intercessor in prayer (7:9). Following their confession of sin and their renewed desire to look to the Lord for guidance, Samuel prepared and offered a burnt offering sacrifice, symbolic of entire consecration to God.

The Philistines could not be overthrown by the supernatural strength of Samson, but their many years of domination over Israel were terminated by the prayers of Samuel who was faithful to God. Samson represented the best of human strength, but only began to deliver Israel (Judg. 13:5); but through Samuel, who represented the power of prayer and obedience to the Word of God, the hand of the Lord was against the Philistines (I Sam. 7:13).

For the Christian, when there is sincere repentance, Jesus becomes our intercessor. When we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness (I John 1:9).

Thought for Today:

Let us hold fast (firmly) the profession of our faith without wavering (doubting); (for He is faithful that promised;) (Heb. 10:23).
Christ Revealed:

Through the rock called Ebenezer, which means the stone of help (I Sam. 7:12). Jesus is our Rock of salvation; our help comes from Him (Ps. 18:2; 121:2). I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me (Phil. 4:13).
Word Studies:

4:1 pitched encamped; 4:9 quit yourselves like men be courageous and exercise all the strength you have; 4:12 his clothes rent . . . earth upon his head signs of great sorrow; 4:19 travailed gave birth; 5:6 emerods tumors, hemorrhoids; 6:2 diviners fortune-tellers; 6:6 had wrought wonderfully did mighty things; 6:7 milch kine heifers, milk cows; 6:8 coffer chest; 6:14 clave split; 7:3 strange foreign, false; 7:10 discomfited them confused them in a panic.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in honor of Dr. John A. Hash • Government Officials: Rep. Chellie Pingree (ME), and Rep. Lynn Westmoreland (GA) • Country: Bosnia and Hercegovina (4 million) on the Balkan Peninsula in southeastern Europe • Major language: Serbo-Croatian • Little evangelism being done • 40% Muslim; 28% Serbian Orthodox; 14% Roman Catholic • Prayer Suggestion: Ask the Lord to give you contentment in your circumstances, whether in plenty or in want (Phil. 4:11-12).
Optional Reading: Acts 3

Memory Verse for the Week: I Peter 4:15

[Judy Harder]

April 3, 2011 

Read I Samuel 8 -- 11
Highlights:

The people demand a king and ignore the true King (I Sam. 8:5). God directs Samuel to anoint Saul (9:27 — 10:1). King Saul is challenged and defeats the Ammonites (11:1-11).
Samuel was one of the most godly men in Bible history. In Israel's 400 years in the promised land, no one person had served as judge, priest, and prophet, but Samuel faithfully served God in all three positions. He was known as a man of prayer (I Sam. 12:23; 15:11; Ps. 99:6), but both his sons perverted judgment (I Sam. 8:3).

During my 90 years, I have been very close to many who have faced similar heartbreak. One of the most godly men I have known in the past 60 years had two sons. The younger son became minister; the older son was a strong, robust, person until he began to drink a little wine now and then. As time went by, it was obvious that he had become a drunkard. One night when he was drunk, he had a heart attack and died instantly. As my minister friend told me about his older son, his voice quivered, the tears rolled down his cheeks, and his voice lowered as he commented: "According to the Word of God, I know he is in eternal hell."

In one city where I was pastor, the director of our city missions had a son who had a "social" drink now and then. After drinking one night, he had a wreck and was thrown out of the car.. When they turned him over, a bloody tract fell out of his shirt pocket with the heading, What shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? (Mark 8:36). No smoker believes he will die of lung cancer. Every one thinks he will be the exception to the rule. But the statistics tell a different story.

Samuel's sons were anointed priests, "serving the Lord." They walked not in his ways, but turned aside after lucre, and took bribes, and perverted judgment (I Sam. 8:3). They chose a self-serving way rather than the way of God. In hell they are crying out much like the rich man who said . . . have mercy on me . . . for I am tormented (Luke 16:24-25).

Like Samuel, Christian parents have a responsibility to guide and discipline their children, and to pray that they will have a sincere desire to be obedient to the Lord. But some godly parents have suffered heartbreak because their children chose not to live for Christ according to the Word of God. Each one of us must decide who will be master of our life.

Fear the Lord, and serve Him in sincerity and in truth: and put away the gods which your fathers served . . . and serve ye the Lord. . . . (Like Joshua, Samuel remained faithful, declaring the truth.) As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord (Josh. 24:14-15).

Thought for Today:

And it shall be, if thou do at all forget the Lord thy God, and walk after other gods, and serve, them, and worship them, I testify against you this day that ye shall surely perish (Deut. 8:19).
Christ Portrayed:

Through Samuel who faithfully served Israel as judge (I Sam. 8:1,3), prophet (8:10-18; 9:6,9,19,27; 10:1-9), and priest (8:10,21; 10:. Jesus was the Prophet promised through Moses (Deut. 18:15); He is our Great High Priest (Heb. 4:14); and one day He will judge all mankind: For the Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment unto the Son (John 5:22).
Word Studies:

8:3 lucre money gained dishonestly; 8:9 protest solemnly object seriously; 8:12 ear slow; 9:2 goodly handsome; 9:7 spent used up; 9:16 captain leader since God was the true King; 9:26 spring of the day dawn, the first coming of light; 10:1 vial a container; 11:1 encamped against but his forces in position to attack.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Lt. Col. and Mrs. Walter W. Swanson • Staff: Dan Murton • Country: Botswana (1.5 million) in southern Africa • Major languages: English and Setswana • Limited religious freedom because of local chiefs • 58% Christian; 40% Indigenous; .8% Baha'i; .2% Muslim; .2% Other • Prayer Suggestion: Pray and give thanks to the Lord for your brothers and sisters in Christ (Col. 1:2-3).
Optional Reading: Acts 4

Memory Verse for the Week: Psalms 119:9

 

[Judy Harder]

April 4, 2011 

Read I Samuel 12 -- 14:23
Highlights:

Samuel gives the king and the nation serious warnings (I Sam. 12:14-15,23-25) and we should all take heed. Saul reveals his failure when he usurps the office of the priesthood. For this disobedience, he loses the kingdom (13:8-14). Saul's son Jonathan trusts God, leads a bold thrust into enemy territory, and Israel is victorious (14:1-23).
Saul was commanded to remain in Gilgal until Samuel arrived, and was warned not to offer sacrifices until Samuel returned. These sacrifices were to be offered before the battle. God delayed Samuel until the last day of the appointed time to test Saul's faith in the Word of God, as well as to test his character and humility in waiting for the appointed man of God to perform the sacrifice. But Saul feared defeat by the Philistines, and he knew a burnt offering should be performed before the battle; therefore, he justified his actions since war appeared imminent, his army was fearful, and many were deserting him. Saul presumed that, under the circumstances, violating one spiritual principle and performing another would bring success to the nation of Israel. He thought obedience was less important than sacrifices.

Samuel warned the people: If ye will fear the Lord, and serve Him, and obey His voice, and not rebel against the Commandment of the Lord, then shall both ye and also the king that reigneth over you continue following the Lord your God: But if ye will not obey the voice of the Lord, but rebel against the Commandment of the Lord, then shall the hand of the Lord be against you, as it was against your fathers (I Sam. 12:14-15).

Obedience is giving up one's will to the will of another; it is therefore the "sacrifice" of the whole person. Even in Israel there were many people who seemed too poor to bring the least costly offering to the Altar of the Lord; but no one is ever too poor to tithe in recognition that we are not our own, for ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's (I Cor. 6:19-20). Our utmost desire should be to do the will of God, seek His guidance, and submit to His Commands. It is this principle of faith which alone can make a sacrifice acceptable. Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man draw back, My soul shall have no pleasure in him (Heb. 10:38). Pride and self-will have a strange way of blinding the eyes and blurring the principles of Truth and integrity.

Now faith is the substance (assurance) of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. . . . But without faith it is impossible to please Him (Heb. 11:1,6).

Thought for Today:

And now, Israel, what doth the Lord thy require of thee, but fear the Lord thy God, to walk in all His ways, to love Him, and to serve the Lord thy God with all thy heart and all thy soul (Deut. 10:12).
Christ Revealed:

By Samuel the intercessor (I Sam. 12:23). Right now Jesus is interceding for believers. It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us (Rom. 8:34; Heb. 7:25).
Word Studies:

12:4 taken ought received a bribe; ought anything; 12:21 vain worthless; 13:10 salute welcome, greet; 13:17 spoilers raiders; 13:20 share . . . coulter . . . mattock agricultural tools; 13:21 goads iron points used to prod animals; 14:8 discover ourselves let ourselves be seen; 14:16 melted away scattered in all directions; 14:20 discomfiture confusion.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in honor of Rick Hash • Government Official: Sen. Richard Lugar (IN) • Country: Brazil (168 million) in South America • Major languages: Portuguese and Spanish • Religious freedom • 67% Catholic; 21% Protestant; 4% spiritist; .7% Buddhist; .7% Muslim; .15% Indigenous; 2.4% Other • Prayer Suggestion: Give thanks to the Lord and praise Him openly, for He has redeemed you through His blood and forgiven all your sins (Col. 1:12-14).
Optional Reading: Acts 5

Memory Verse for the Week: Psalms 119:9

[Judy Harder]

April 5, 2011 

Read I Samuel 14:24 -- 16
Highlights:

Saul makes a foolish vow (I Sam. 14:24-30). Then he disobeys the direct command of God. First we read of Eli the priest, then Samuel the prophet, and Saul the king. Next enters David the shepherd boy who becomes the God-anointed king of Israel. His Seed (Descendant) will be our promised Savior, our High Priest, Prophet, and King of kings.
Influenced by the godly prophet Samuel at the beginning of his reign, Saul served the people as the servant of God. But it wasn't long before his decisions were calculated to heighten his own agenda. Samuel also said unto Saul . . . hearken thou unto the voice of the words of the Lord. . . . Now go and smite Amalek . . . But Saul and the people spared Agag, and the best of the sheep and of the oxen . . . and all that was good, and would not utterly destroy them (I Sam. 15:1,3,9).

Saul wanted Samuel's blessing, but when he had to make a choice between Samuel's approval and maintaining his own popularity, he chose to please the people.

Desire for popularity held a firm grip on Saul's heart when he admitted he was afraid of the people. Saul was more concerned about pleasing them than in having God rule his life. Saul said unto Samuel, I have sinned: for I have transgressed the Commandment of the Lord, and thy words: because I feared the people, and obeyed their voice (15:24).

We need to remember and live by Samuel's powerful words: Hath the Lord as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the Lord? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice. . . . For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry (15:22-23).

There is nothing so subtle or destructive to our spiritual growth as pride. Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises. . . . if ye do these things, ye shall never fall (II Pet. 1:4-10). Nothing but the Word of God can expose our pride. The Word of God is quick (living), and powerful (Heb. 4:12). Believing and receiving His Word will lead us to true humility (Rom. 12:1-2; II Cor. 10:5; Phil. 2:5-8).

All of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble (I Pet. 5:5). Those who are truly called of God will recognize that their ability to fulfill His call comes only from the Lord and His Word. Ye see your calling, brethren, how that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called (I Cor. 1:26).

Thought for Today:

Thou shalt fear (highly respect) the Lord thy God; Him shalt thou serve, and to Him shalt thou cleave, and swear by His Name (Deut. 10:20).
Christ Revealed:

Through David's name (I Sam. 16:13) which means beloved. David is a type of Jesus, whom the Heavenly Father called My beloved Son (Matt. 3:17; 17:5; Mark 1:11; 9:7; Luke 3:22; 9:35).
Word Studies:

14:24 adjured threatened under oath; 14:31 smote struck down; 14:41 perfect lot right answer; 14:47 took the kingdom took possession; vexed harassed; 14:52 sore fierce, severe; 15:29 repent change His mind; 15:32 delicately fearfully; 16:18 comely handsome.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Official: Rep. Peter King (NY) and Rep. Reid Ribble (WI) • Country: Brunei (400,000) on the northern coast of Borneo • Major languages: Malay and English • Limited religious freedom • 66% Muslim; 19% Chinese religions; 6% animist; 4% Protestant; 4% Roman Catholic • Prayer Suggestion: Ask the Lord to write His precepts in your heart (Col. 3:16).
Optional Reading: Acts 6

Memory Verse for the Week: Psalms 119:9