Bible Pathways

[Judy Harder]

Read Esther 8 -- 10

Highlights:

A decree to save the Jews is issued (Esth. chap. , and God brings victory to His people (9:1-19). The annual Festival of Purim is established (9:19-32). King Ahasuerus proclaims Mordecai prime minister, second only to the king (chap. 10).
Haman appeared to be invincible, and his decree to execute all the Jews seemed final. The law had been established, and the decree had been approved by the Persian king. Under the law of the Medes and the Persians, a decree could not be altered, not even by the king. Because Haman . . . had devised against the Jews to destroy them, and had cast Pur, that is, the lot, to consume them, and to destroy them. . . . Wherefore they called these days Purim (Lots) after the name of Pur (Esth. 9:24,26). Haman's astrologers had cast Pur (meaning, had cast stones or other objects as a means of divination) to determine the most favorable time for the execution of all the Jews. Haman's "lucky day" fell on the thirteenth day of the last month. The divine principle which Haman did not realize is: The lot is cast into the lap; but the whole disposing thereof is of the Lord (Prov. 16:33).

The determined day of execution, which is known as Purim, turned from death to deliverance, and the Jews have celebrated it each year for centuries. The Feast of Purim is a testimony to the fact that what seems to be chance and good luck to some is in reality ordered by the Almighty Controller of world affairs.

How tragic that in later years when Christ, their Messiah, came to bring them a far greater deliverance, they did not recognize Him! The judgment of death has passed upon all men (Rom. 5:12), for all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God (3:23). By accepting Christ as our Savior, whether Jew or Gentile, we receive deliverance from sin and death and are granted eternal life (John 3:15-16).

We cannot gain the Lord's best without surrendering our all. The rich young ruler (Luke 18:18) was a good man who could have been a disciple — possibly an apostle. Jesus loved him and said unto him . . . Sell whatsoever thou hast . . . and come, take up the cross, and follow Me. And he . . . went away grieved: for he had great posessions (Mark 10:21-22).

The wisdom of this world is foolishness with God. For it is written, He taketh (entraps) the wise in their own craftiness (unscruptulous conduct) (I Cor. 3:19).

God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son. . . . that the world through Him might be saved (John 3:16-17).

Thought for Today:

No sin works more deceitfully than the sin of pride.
Christ Portrayed:

By Mordecai, who was exalted from servanthood to a position of honor and glory next unto (the) king (Esth. 8:2,15; 10:3). His life illustrated Christian conduct. Christ came to earth as a servant and was exalted to the right hand of God (Phil. 2:5-11; Mark 16:19).
Word Studies:

8:3 put away the mischief avert the evil; device scheme; 8:10 posts couriers; 9:4 waxed greater and greater became increasingly popular and powerful.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Staff: Rita Guerra • Government Officials: Rep. Steny Hoyer (MD), Rep. Bob Gibbs (OH) and Rep. James Sensenbrenner, Jr. (WI) • Country: Lebanon (4.3 million) in the Middle East • Major languages: Arabic and French • Limited religious freedom • 55% Muslim (Shi'a, Sunni); 41% Christian (Maronite, Orthodox, Melchite, Protestant, Chaldean, Assyrian, Syriac); 3% Druze; 1% Others (Jewish, Baha'i, Alawi, Jehovah's Witness) • Prayer Suggestion: Thank God for His mercy (Num. 12:11-14).
Optional Reading:

Galatians 3

Memory Verse for the Week:

Acts 2:21

[Judy Harder]

June 15, 2011   

Bible Pathways
     
Read Job 1 -- 4
Highlights:

A great godly example, Job acknowledges God as his Source of wealth and family (Job 1:1-5). God allows Satan to attack Job (1:12 — 2:9). In pain, Job curses the day he was born (chap. 3), while his friends offer "advice" (chap. 4).
We are startled to find Satan in the presence of the Lord. But there was a day when the sons of God came to present themselves before the Lord, and Satan came also among them to present himself before the Lord (Job 2:1). He was there to slander and accuse a man who was perfect and upright, one that feared God, and eschewed (avoided) evil (1:1,8; 2:3). Satan, the accuser of our brethren (Rev. 12:10), later used Job's "friends" to criticize, belittle, and discourage him.

Who can understand the heartache and sorrow of Job — the servant of the Lord who was stripped of family, possessions, and health? This suffering was not a misfortune or bad luck; nor was it punishment from God, as Job's friends supposed. All of Job's sufferings were the attacks of Satan, but God allowed them in order to bring Job into a closer relationship with Himself.

Job's wife was no encouragement, for she found fault with God for all their problems. She told Job: "You may as well curse God, and die (Job 2:9). She too forfeited her opportunity of imparting the tender love of God — of ministering comfort in Job's suffering and strengthening his confidence in God.

Only through submission to God could she obtain the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price. . . . Even as Sara obeyed Abraham, calling him lord (I Pet. 3:4-6). A Sara will be a faithful helpmeet to her Abraham even when she is not clear as to why he is having problems. I would have you know, that the head of every man is Christ; and the head of the woman is the man; and the head of Christ is God. . . . Neither was the man created for the woman; but the woman for the man (I Cor. 11:3,9).

Spiritual victories do not just happen; they are dependent upon one's faith in God. Faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God (Rom. 10:17). Apart from the indwelling power of His Spirit and His Word, all efforts to live a victorious Christian life are doomed to failure. To remain faithful in the midst of trials, we must develop a love for the Word of God which creates a confident faith in Him. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God. . . . and the Sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God (Eph. 6:13,17).

Thought for Today:

Lord, who shall abide in Thy Tabernacle? who shall dwell in Thy holy hill? He that . . . honoureth them that fear the Lord (Ps. 15:14).
Christ Revealed:

In the conversation between Satan and God Almighty (Job 1:6-12). We can see the meaning of Christ's warning to Peter that Satan wanted to sift him as wheat (Luke 22:31). It is comforting to know that Satan cannot test us beyond the will of God.
Word Studies:

1:1 eschewed avoided; 1:20 rent more; mantle robe; 2:8 potsherd piece of broken pottery; 3:16 untimely birth stillborn; 3:24 roarings grief, groanings; 4:2 assay attempts; 4:4 upholden helped, upheld.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Officials: Rep. Richard Larsen (WA) and Rep. Adam Smith (WA) • Country: Lesotho (2 million) within the east-central part of the Republic of South Africa • Major languages: Sesotho and English • Limited religious freedom • 43% Roman Catholic; 30% Protestant; 6% ancestor worship, divination, and spirit-possession cults • Prayer Suggestion: Intercede in prayer for others (Num. 14:13-19).
Optional Reading:

Galatians 4

Memory Verse for the Week:

Acts 2:21
 

[Judy Harder]

Read Job 5 -- 8

Highlights:

Job's friends don't understand what happened (Job chaps. 5 & . Job responds with the wisdom of God (chap. 6) and then prays to God (7:16-21).
Job had suffered complete financial loss; all his children had been killed; his wife had turned against him; and he was experiencing intense physical suffering. Eliphaz was quick to criticize Job saying: Behold, happy is the man whom God correcteth: therefore despise not thou the chastening of the Almighty (Job 5:17). After listening to lengthy condemnation, Job replies in a pitiful plea: Oh that my grief were throughly weighed, and my calamity laid in the balances together! For now it would be heavier than the sand of the sea (6:2-3). In addition to all this, Job's "comforters" (16:2) were unmercifully accusing him: The hypocrite's hope shall perish (8:13).

For reasons Job did not understand, God was not coming to his defense: My words are swallowed up (6:3). Job's grief seemed more than he could bear — heavier than the sand of the sea. Though shaken, Job remained faithful to God. Then Job expressed his real sorrow: To him that is afflicted pity should be shewed from his friend (6:14).

When a child of God understands the reason for suffering, the heaviest load will not crush him. But when tragedy occurs with no sign of the presence of God, we are all prone to become discouraged. Too often, "friends" like Eliphaz and Bildad give hasty, harsh rebuke without sensing the intensity of the suffering. Bildad told Job: If thou wert pure and upright; surely now He would awake for thee, and make the habitation of thy righteousness prosperous (8:6).

Added to our suffering is the fact that we seldom understand the reason for our trials. In our human frailty, there are times when our faith is weak. But God will not allow us to suffer beyond what is necessary to accomplish His perfect will in our lives. One of the greatest evidences of the love of God for those who desire to be like the Master is for them to have affliction (Mark 10:29-30; John 15:18). Even Satan is used as a tool in the hand of God to develop His gracious purpose in the lives of His children.

Yes, God allowed Job to suffer; He also allows Christians today to suffer. But regardless of what happens we are more than conquerers through Him that loved us. For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life . . . nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come . . . shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord (Rom. 8:37-39).

Thought for Today:

What assurance and peace of mind come in trusting our heavenly Father!
Christ Revealed:

Through Job's sorrowful condition (Job 7:1-6). Christ was known as a Man of sorrows . . . acquainted with grief (Is. 53:3). On the cross, separated from God in His humanity, Jesus felt the pain of that separation as well as the pain and suffering for all the sins of mankind for all time (Mark 15:34).
Word Studies:

5:12 devices plans, plotting; enterprise schemes; 5:13 froward deceitful; carried head long frustrated; 5:18 maketh sore inflicts pain; 6:3 swallowed up wash; without restraint; 7:21 sleep in the dust be dead in the grave; 8:5 seek . . . betimes week with earnestness; 8:11 flag feed grass.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Staff: Ben Wallace • Government Officials: Gov. M. Jodi Rell (CT) and Rep. Robert Hurt (VA) • Country: Liberia (3 million) in West Africa • Major languages: English and more than 20 local languages of the Niger-Congo language group • Religious freedom • 41% ancestor worship and witchcraft; 21% Muslim; 13% Protestant; 2% Roman Catholic • Prayer Suggestion: Intercede in prayer for others (Num. 21:7).
Optional Reading:

Galatians 5

Memory Verse for the Week:

Acts 2:21

[Judy Harder]

 June 17, 2011     


Bible Pathways
     
Read Job 9 -- 12

Highlights:

Man needs a Daysman (Mediator) (Job. 9:33). Jesus is ours (I Tim. 2:5). Learn the Truth: both the wicked and the righteous suffer (Job chap. 10). Zophar says misfortune is sent by God to punish sin (chap. 11). When innocent, Job's defense is our defense (12:4,9-10,13).
Bildad was noticeably less sympathetic than was Eliphaz. He critically attacked Job, saying: How long wilt thou speak these things? And how long shall the words of thy mouth be like a strong wind? (Job 8:2).

Bildad was misled by the same false principle expressed by their companion Eliphaz, that severe sufferings are caused by gross sins. As is often the case, this legalistic "religious" comforter became a critic. He proceeded to reprove and denounce Job as a mere talker, a vain and lying boaster, and as a self-righteous pretender of perfection. In striking contrast, God said of His servant: That man (Job) was perfect and upright, and one that feared God, and eschewed (avoided) evil (1:1). We are led to see that religious people who express unkind criticism of others do Satan's work and impose added suffering to saints who need comfort. Those who boldly express their own opinions as if they were the Lord's authoritative judge on earth, often misunderstand the methods God uses to deal with His disciples.

Job confessed that the Lord's dealings with him were beyond his ability to comprehend. When he said: Lo, He goeth by me, and I see Him not, Job was expressing assurance of the presence of God, even though he could not visibly see Him. He is not a man, as I am, that I should answer Him, and we should come together in judgment (9:32).

Zophar went on to say: Oh that God would speak, and open His lips against thee (11:5). God did open His lips and speak, but it was against these critics when He emphatically told Eliphaz: My wrath is kindled against thee, and against thy two friends: for ye have not spoken of Me the thing that is right, as My servant Job hath (42:7).This can only mean that the counsel and conclusions of this man and his friends were merely human, self-righteous reasoning and not of God.

As Christians we can sense the presence of God — not only in our trials but also in our day-to-day activities. Although we cannot see Him, we know, through faith, that He is with us. God may never reveal a reason for our trials, but we should never question His actions.

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).

Thought for Today:

The judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether (Ps. 19:9).
Christ Portrayed:

Through the daysman (mediator) that Job longs for (Job 9:33). Christ is the only Mediator between God and (sinful) men (I Tim. 2:5).
Word Studies:

9:33 daysman mediator; 9:34 rod chastisement; 10:11 fenced knit me together; 11:6 exacteth demands; 11:14 tabernacles swellings; 11:19 make suit unto thee seek your favor; 12:19 spoiled stripped and plundered.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Staff: Mary Kay Wagner • Government Officials: Rep. Marcy Kaptur (OH) • Country: Libya (5 million) in North Africa • Major languages: Arabic and Italian • No form of Christian witness to Libyans is permitted • 98% Muslim; 2% Christian • Prayer Suggestion: Ask for the blessings of God upon your family and home (II Sam. 7:29).
Optional Reading:

Galatians 6

Memory Verse for the Week:

Acts 2:21

[Judy Harder]

June 18, 2011     


Bible Pathways
     
Read Job 13 -- 16

Highlights:

Job testifies that he is an upright man and has done nothing to deserve his suffering (Job chaps. 13 — 14). He speaks directly to God (13:20 — 14:22). Eliphaz calls Job a windbag (15:2) and uses his own experiences to show how wrong Job is (15:17-35). Job calls his friends miserable comforters (16:2)
The boldness of Job's faith and faithfulness brought new revelation of his relationship with God. The turning point in the conflict between God and Satan came when Job said: Though He slay me, yet will I trust in Him (Job 13:15). Job's faith in God was unshakeable as he testified: He shall also be my salvation . . . I know that I shall be justified (13:16-18).

God has a wise and precious purpose in all our suffering — without exception — even in death. What a marvelous revelation of this Truth when Job said: If a man die, shall he live again? all the days of my appointed time will I wait, till my change come (14:14). Job had assurance (faith) that God would speak for him when there was no one else to do so. He pleaded for a Divine Helper when he said: O that one might plead for a man with God, as a man pleadeth for his neighbour! (16:21). Job knew there would be a Mediator between God and men, the Man Christ Jesus (I Tim. 2:5). Zophar's conclusions led him to say: Should thy lies make men hold their peace? . . . Know therefore that God exacteth of thee less than thine iniquity deserveth (Job 11:3,6).

Satan instigated the criticisms by Job's "devoted" friends in an effort to substantiate his assumption that Job would curse God if he were put to the test of death — that he would give up his faith in God in order to save his own life.

When we realize that our lives are under the Lord's control, we will trust ourselves unreservedly into His hands so that He can fully accomplish His purpose in us. Amazing as it may have seemed to Eliphaz and Job's other friends, Job had utmost confidence that when he died, he would live again and be changed.

Like Job, every child of God will face trials and suffering. But, as we trust God in the midst of those trials, our faith and love for Him are deepened. In conforming to Christ's death, we come to an end of self — a giving up ourselves to live or die for Him. We are promised: If we suffer, we shall also reign with Him: if we deny Him, He also will deny us (II Tim. 2:12; comp. Phil. 4:12; I Pet. 2:20; 4:19; Rev. 2:10).

Thought for Today:

The sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us (Rom. 8:18).
Christ Revealed:

Through the smiting of Job (Job 16:10). Christ also was struck by those who ridiculed Him (Matt. 27:29-44; John 18:22-23; 19:2-3; Ps. 22:7-8; 109:25; Is. 53:3-5,7-10).
Word Studies:

14:5 days are determined . . . with Thee allotted time to live depends on You; 15:4 restrainest binder; 15:25 strengtheneth himself against the Almighty defies the Almighty; 15:26 upon the thick bosses of his bucklers with massive shields; 15:27 collops of fat figuratively speaking, blinded by self-importance and wealth; 15:29 prolong the perfection thereof continue the harvest, the abundant crops; 15:34 fire shall consume the tabernacles of bribery their houses shall be burned with fire; 16:12 broken me asunder thoroughly crushed me; 16:13 reins heart and mind — the center of emotions; poureth out my gall leaves me no hope of life.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Officials: Sen. Mike Johanns (NE), Rep. Jerry McNerney (CA), Sen. Jay Rockefeller IV (WV), and Rep. Paul Tonko (NY) • Country: Liechtenstein (32,000) in western Europe • Major languages: German and Alemannic dialect • Religious freedom • 87% Roman Catholic; 12% Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: Ask the Lord to give you discernment and an understanding heart (I Kings 3:9).
Optional Reading:

Ephesians 1

Memory Verse for the Week:

Acts 2:21
 

[Judy Harder]

June 19, 2011     


Bible Pathways
     
Read Job 17 -- 20
Highlights:

Job continues to defend himself (Job chap. 17). Bildad jumps in, using proverbs (chap. 18). One of the greatest expressions of faith in the Old Testament (19:23-27). Zophar expounds on what happens to the wicked (chap. 20).
Bildad's second speech was the most hostile of all. With every lash of condemnation came a greater depth to Job's confidence in his life beyond the grave. Job could bear the unjust reproach of his friends, for he was living in the expectation of the glorious appearance of his coming King. His faith soared like an eagle above the clouds and beyond the heavens to view eternal truths which had never before been revealed.

Job's remarkable revelation to mankind: I know that my Redeemer liveth (Job 19:25), is one of the most remarkable and magnificent prophecies in the Bible. The meaning of the Hebrew word "redeemer" is one who is the nearest blood relative whose responsibility it is to avenge wrongs done to his kinsman (Num. 35:19), including the responsibility to buy back his land for him if he had lost it through poverty (Ruth 4). The same word is used spiritually for Christ, since He is our Redeemer (Ps. 103; Is. 59:20) who paid the price to purchase our freedom from sin (I Pet. 1:18-19).

Job had absolute confidence concerning life after death: If a man die, shall he live again . . . Thou shalt call, and I will answer thee. . . . For now Thou numberest my steps (Job 14:14-16). Each day of Job's suffering seemed to bring a fuller revelation of God until Job looked beyond his suffering and into the future with calmness and triumph because our Father in Heaven observes every step in our lives. Job spoke with utmost confidence: I know that my Redeemer liveth, and that He shall stand at the latter day upon the earth: And though after my skin worms destroy this body, yet in my flesh shall I see God (19:25-26).

All possessions are transient, and God wants us to see that we cannot hold a tight grip on material or physical things, or even people — no matter how dear they are to us.

Like Job, God would lead us to confidently say: The Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken away; blessed be the Name of the Lord (Job 1:21). Everything and everyone is left behind at death and we spend eternity in either heaven, with joys beyond compare, or in hell — the lake of everlasting fire (in outer darkness), prepared for the devil and his angels (Matt. 25:41). As Christians, we too can endure many trials and be victorious when we know that no good thing will He withhold from them that walk uprightly (Ps. 84:11).

Thought for Today:

Jesus, our Living Redeemer, is always faithful. I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that He is able to keep that which I have committed unto Him (II Tim. 1:12).
Christ Revealed:

As the Redeemer (Job 19:25). Jesus Christ is our Redeemer. By His death, He provided the required sacrifice to pay for our sins (Acts 20:28; Eph. 1:13-14; Rev. 5:9). Our Saviour Jesus Christ . . . gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from all iniquity (Titus 2:13-14).
Word Studies:

17:1 My breath is corrupt my life is ruined; 17:6 a tabret an object of contempt, ridicule; 17:14 corruption decay; 17:16 bars of the pit unseen state; our rest . . . is in the dust we are buried; 18:9 gin snare, trap; 18:20 day date; tragic end; 19:3 make yourselves strange to me wrong me; 19:14 familiar close; 19:17 strange unbearable, repulsive; 19:19 inward dearest, intimate; 19:27 reins heart.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in honor of Linda Kennon • Government Official: Rep. Trent Franks (AZ) • Country: Lithuania (4 million) eastern coast of Baltic Sea in northeastern Europe • Major languages: Lithuanian and Russian • Limited religious freedom • 80% Roman Catholic; 5% Russian Orthodox; 1% Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: Ask the Lord to bring our nation to repentance (I Kings 8:33-36).
Optional Reading:

Ephesians 2

Memory Verse for the Week:

Acts 2:36
 

[Judy Harder]

June 20, 2011     


Bible Pathways
     
Read Job 21 -- 24

Highlights:

As Job responds, the question arises: Why do the wicked prosper and go unpunished? Eliphaz speaks for the 3rd time, making Job sound like a liar (Job 22:1-30). Job's response: I shall come forth as gold (23:10)
The key to Job's singleness of heart and ultimate victory was his conviction that obedience to the Word of God was more important than life itself: His way have I kept, and not declined. . . . I have esteemed the words of His mouth more than my necessary food (Job 23:11-12).

It is as if Job had said: "In the midst of my suffering and sorrows, in faith I turned to and trusted whatever He chose for me. So great was my need for assurance, I seized upon it as a starving man for a meal. I devoured it and indeed my soul was comforted and I was strengthened. I turned from the husks of 'comfort' that my friends offered and can testify that only faith in God and His Word will satisfy."

He further explained his confidence by saying: Behold, I go forward, but He is not there; and backward, but I cannot perceive Him: On the left hand . . . I cannot behold Him . . . on the right hand . . . I cannot see Him (23:8-9).

Regardless of where Job turned, it seemed that God was nowhere to be found. But Job's faith did not rest in his fears and feelings, but in the Word of God. Job's faith was unshakable because he could truthfully say: His way have I kept so I shall come forth as gold.

Some have assumed they were a Christian merely because they were a member of a church, but have they experienced the transforming power of the Word of God? Like Judas, they may talk like Christians, but they do not desire Christ as Lord of their lives. To have a Bible but no desire to know how God would have them live is useless. Until they repent of their sins and accept Christ as Savior and Lord, the Bible has little meaning to them.

As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in Him . . . Beware lest any man spoil (rob) you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ (Col. 2:6,8).

Spiritual defeat inevitably faces the Christian who lives year after year, reading little of the Bible because they ignorantly believe they have sufficient wisdom. Such reasoning may leave them greatly lacking the armor and weapons of protection against the deceptions of Satan (Eph. 6:11-17).

Unless Thy Law had been my delights, I should then have perished in mine affliction (Ps. 119:92).

Thought for Today:

It is amazing, but true — we can only know God through reading His Word!
Christ Revealed:

Through Job's faithfulness to God throughout his suffering (Job 23:10-12). Christ's faithfulness to the Father is seen as He prayed for the Father's will to be done, not His own (Luke 22:42).
Word Studies:

21:2 consolations sympathy; 21:3 Suffer allow; 21:8 seed children; 21:10 gendereth greeds; casteth not does not miscarry; 21:29 tokens testimony and experience; 24:5 rising betimes for a prey seeking diligently for food; 24:21 evil entreateth cruelly takes advantage of.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Official: Rep. Adam Schiff (CA) • Country: Luxembourg (429,000) in western Europe • Major languages: Luxembourgish and German • Religious freedom • 84% Roman Catholic; 2% Protestant; .1% Eastern Orthodox • Prayer Suggestion: Kneel in a humble spirit of reverence as you pray to the Lord (I Kings 8:54)..
Optional Reading:

Ephesians 3

Memory Verse for the Week:

Acts 2:36
 

[Judy Harder]

 June 21, 2011     


Bible Pathways
     
Read Job 25 -- 29

Highlights:

Bildad and Job debate the greatness of God (Job. chap. 25 & 26). Job seems to be fighting a losing battle. Three chapters of mere words cannot defend or prove his innocence as long as God is silent (chap. 27 — 29). This is a true test from God.
Bildad had insinuated that Job was an unclean worm who could not be justified with God (Job 25:1-6). But God had already revealed Job's true nature, saying he was perfect (blameless) and upright, and one that feared God, and eschewed (shunned) evil (1:1). After all this ordeal, God said to Eliphaz . . . you have not spoken of Me the thing that is right, as My servant Job hath (42:7).

In the midst of all the false insinuations, Job looked beyond the criticisms to the Source of all true wisdom. He asked the question: Where shall wisdom be found? and where is the place of understanding? Man (wisdom of the world) knoweth not the price thereof; neither is it found in the land of the living. . . . It cannot be gotten for gold, neither shall silver be weighed for the price thereof (28:12-13,15). Job was never as concerned about knowing the answer to his problems as he was about having a right relationship with God. Unto man he said, Behold, the fear of the Lord, that is wisdom; and to depart from evil is understanding (28:28). The more we truly humble ourselves and die to pride, the less we will be affected by the criticism of others.

There is no substitute for reading the Bible itself for acquiring the wisdom of God since God Himself is the Author and Revealer of true wisdom. Therefore, it is vital that we read all the Bible carefully, continuously, repeatedly, and prayerfully. Each of us should have an unwavering desire to daily seek the answer to this question: "What does the Word say to me in my circumstances today?" A determined effort to apply the teaching of the Word to current living will result in rewarding spiritual answers to our daily experiences.

Those who leave Christ — the Living Word — out of their lives will never discover true wisdom and understanding. They will miss the greatest discovery of life — Christ, who is The (Source of all) Truth (John 14:6). To neglect and disregard Christ and His Word is to remain in spiritual darkness, ignorant of the true purpose for life.

We speak . . . not the wisdom of this world . . . But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory (I Cor. 2:6-7).

Thought for Today:

The Apostle Paul desired that those who had not seen him would understand. I would that ye knew . . . the mystery of God, and of the Father, and of Christ; in whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. And this I say, lest any man should beguile (deceive) you with enticing words (Col. 2:2-4).
Christ Revealed:

Through Job's compassion for others (Job 29:15-17,21-25). Jesus was moved to compassion when He saw great crowds in need of healing and feeding (Matt. 14:14; 15:30-39).
Word Studies:

27:22 fain flee desire to flee; 29:14 diadem turban.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Staff: Gina Lesnefsky • Government Officials: Gov. James H. Douglas (VT), Rep. Dan Burton (IN), and Rep. Dana Rohrabacher (CA) • Country: Macedonia (2 million) in southeastern Europe • Major languages: Macedonian and Albanian • strongly Orthodox country • 67% Macedonian Orthodox; 23% Muslim; 3% Catholic; 2% Protestant; 5% Other • Prayer Suggestion: Bless the Lord that His Word is absolutely trustworthy (I Kings 8:56).
Optional Reading:

Ephesians 4

Memory Verse for the Week:

Acts 2:36
 

[Judy Harder]

June 22, 2011     


Bible Pathways
     
Read Job 30 -- 33

Highlights:

The humiliation and anguish of Job's present state is outlined in Job chapters 30 — 31. Our innocent Savior suffered humiliation and anguish for us. The younger man, Elihu, gets angry and tells others what he thinks (chap. 32 — 33).
Job had been shocked by the death of his ten children, lost all his property, and suffered from a most painful disease. He was made the object of contempt by his wife and of suspicion and reproach by his friends. As if all this had not been enough, he was subjected to humiliation and insult by those who walked by. He probably was still sitting among the ashes, covered from head to foot with painful boils. It would appear that Satan had instigated all the powers of wickedness against him.

Job expressed his pitiful loneliness by saying: They abhor me . . . and . . . spit in my face. . . . I cry unto Thee, and Thou dost not hear me: I stand up, and Thou regardest me not. . . . I waited for light, there came darkness (Job 30:10,20,26). There seemed to be no end to the sorrow and suffering which Job endured — even contempt from those who spit in his face as he cried out in prayer. And as far as he could determine, God was not hearing his prayers: Doth not He see my ways, and count all my steps? (31:4).

One of the most difficult trials for a Christian is to pray, and continue praying, without any apparent sign that God was listening. But the effectiveness of our prayers cannot be judged by immediate results. There are many reasons for delay. Sometimes God does not grant our request because He has something better for us. At other times, He withholds material benefits in order to impart spiritual understanding. The very fact that our requests are sometimes granted and sometimes denied is proof in itself that we are cared for by a God of love whose ways are governed by His wisdom. He always gives us what is for our best.

How unsearchable are His judgments, and His ways past finding out! For who hath known the mind of the Lord? or who hath been His counseller? (Rom. 11:33-34).

Godly men and women are often falsely accused, criticized, and condemned as hypocrites. The best saint often receives the worst indignities from a self-serving, scornful crowd.

Remember the Word that I say unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted Me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept My saying, they will keep yours also. But all these things will they do unto you for My Name's sake, because they know not Him that sent Me (John 15:20-21).

Thought for Today:

God gives more grace as the burdens become greater.
Christ Revealed:

Through the ridicule and affliction which Job suffered (Job 30:10-11). Christ was afflicted and spit upon. After Pilate delivered Jesus to the Roman soldiers, they beat Him, hit Him with an open hand and spit on Him; and then they crucified Him (Mark 15:15-20; Is. 50:6; 53:2-5; Matt. 27:26-31; John 18:22; 19:1-3).
Word Studies:

30:2 whereto how; 30:4 mallows plants of the salt marsh; 30:14 wide breaking in of waters waters gushing through a wide break in the wall; 30:27 My bowels boiled by heart is continually troubled; days of affliction prevented every day brings more suffering; 31:10 grind unto we a slave to; 31:40 cockle thorny weeds; 32:19 belly in my heart.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for international Broadcasts in honor of Bonnie Wilhite • Government Official: Sen. Dianne Feinstein (CA) • Country: Madagascar (15 million) an island in the Indian Ocean off the coast of Mozambique • Major languages: French and Malagasy • Increasingly anti-Christian • 43% witchcraft, ancestor worship, and some astrology; 21% Protestant; 21% Roman Catholic; 2% Muslim • Prayer Suggestion: Pray that people will come to a knowledge of the Lord God (I Kings 18:36-37).
Optional Reading:

Ephesians 5

Memory Verse for the Week:

Acts 2:36
 

[Judy Harder]

 June 23, 2011     

Bible Pathways
     
Read Job 34 -- 37

Highlights:

Elihu becomes critical and accuses Job of being arrogant (Job chap. 34). Then, in case Job is forgetful, he reminds him of the justice of God (chap. 35). Elihu keeps talking and reminds Job of the power of God (chap. 36 — 37).
When Job's three friends had nothing more to say, Elihu condemned them and then expressed even greater hostility toward Job. Four times in five verses we read variations of the phrase that Elihu's wrath was kindled (Job 32:1-5).

This young egotist referred to himself by the words "me," "my," and "I" at least 55 times to inform Job that he alone was chosen to intercede on Job's behalf and that he was the Lord's spokesman to Job (32:6 — 33:33). He agreed with Eliphaz, Bildad, and Zophar that Job was a sinner, but said that they were self-appointed judges who had failed to prove their charges.

Elihu denounced Job: Therefore doth Job open his mouth in vain; he multiplieth words without knowledge (35:16). My desire is that Job may be tried unto the end because of his answers for wicked men. For he added rebellion unto his sin . . . and multiplieth his words against God (34:36-37). Elihu's desire that Job be tried was granted. Notice how opposite and differing in character his evaluation of Job was than the Lord's. God proclaimed Job as My servant . . . there is none like him in the earth, a perfect and an upright man (1:. Then, following Job's test of faith, God gladly honored Job by saying to Job's friends: My wrath is kindled against thee, and against thy two friends: for ye have not spoken of Me the thing that is right, as My servant Job hath. . . . My servant Job shall pray for you (42:7-8). Elihu was interrupted by the wrath of the Almighty, who said to Job: Who is this that darkeneth counsel by words without knowledge? (38:2).

Counselors may have all the degrees and qualifications the world can give, but unless their advice is in harmony with the Word of God, it is "darkened counsel."

During times of afflictions, heartbreaking bereavement, persecution, or financial struggles, we may be tempted to become so depressed that we even fail to pray. At such times, we especially need someone's loving comfort and assurance that our Lord ultimately controls every situation that comes into our lives. Regardless of how bad our situation may seem, He wants to use it for our good and for His glory (Rom. 8:28; also Gen. 50:20).

Have faith in the wisdom and love of God, casting all your care (anxiety) upon Him; for He careth for you (I Pet. 5:7).

Thought for Today:

Judging and criticizing another Christian is a serious sin; we have no way of knowing how God is working in the heart of His child.
Christ Revealed:

As the One who watches how we live and what we do (Job 34:21). The Lord keeps His eyes on the righteous (I Pet. 3:12).
Word Studies:

34:36 wicked men evil men; 36:8 holden held fast; 36:16 no straitness no restraint or restriction; 36:23 enjoined appointed; 36:33 The noise thereof sheweth concerning it, the cattle also concerning the vapour his thunder announces the coming storm; even the cattle make known its approach; 37:10 straitened frozen; 37:22 terrible awesome.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in honor of Rick Hash • Staff: Jennifer Cunningham • Government Officials: Rep. Robert Dold (IN) and Justice Clarence Thomas • Country: Malawi (10 million) in southeastern Africa • Major languages: English and Chichewa • Religious freedom • 34% Protestant; 23% Roman Catholic; 16% Muslim; 16% animist; 4% cults • Prayer Suggestion: Pray, in faith, for God to work a miracle (II Kings 4:33-34).
Optional Reading:

Ephesians 6

Memory Verse for the Week:

Acts 2:36