Bible Pathways

[Judy Harder]

July 05, 2011   


Bible Pathways
     

Read Psalms 60 -- 66
Highlights:

The reason for praise to our faithful God is revealed in these seven Psalms. They begin with thanksgiving for restored fellowship. Today's reading will put in your heart a desire to give praise and more praise to our marvelous Creator.
King Saul had forced David to retreat to a desolate area outside the Promised Land. David was exiled from his home, his loved ones, and the comforts of the palace. However, what he felt most deeply was his exile from the Promised Land where God had chosen to manifest His presence. David was overwhelmed with sorrow and a sense of emptiness, but he prayed: Hear my cry, O God; attend unto my prayer. From the end of the earth will I cry unto Thee, when my heart is overwhelmed: lead me to the Rock that is higher than I. For Thou hast been a Shelter for me, and a Strong Tower from the enemy (Ps. 61:1-3).

This desolate place seemed like the end of the earth, and he prayed: O God. . . . Lead me to the Rock that is higher than I. Surely this is the prophetic, spiritual Rock, and that Rock was Christ (I Cor. 10:4).This is the cry of a man who knows he is unable to properly choose what he should do. It is also a testimony of David's sense of his great need of being led by One who was far above him in wisdom and power. Obviously, prayer was not a mere theory or spiritual exercise with David, for he knew its reality from past experience: Thou hast been a Shelter for me, and a Strong Tower from the enemy (61:3).

Is it possible that Christians feel that they cannot afford to spend at least fifteen minutes a day in reading His Word? When a friend comes to see us or there is anything to our advantage or pleasure, we "take time" to be interrupted. The things that are really important to us are the things that we can always find time to do (Matt. 6:33).

Wise disciples determine that, no matter what is left undone, our time with God in His Word must have priority. They take time to read His Word while others make excuses (Ps. 63:1).

In His wondrous love, our great God longs for us to give our time Him so that He may communicate to us His wisdom and strength. As we spend time in earnest prayer and meditation in the Word of God, the Holy Spirit reveals His will to us.

Thy Word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against Thee. . . . teach me Thy Statutes (119:11-12).

O righteous Father, the world hath not known Thee: but I have known Thee, and these have known that Thou hast sent Me. And I have declared unto them Thy Name, and will declare it: that the love wherewith Thou hast loved Me may be in them, and I in them (John 17:25-26).

Thought for Today:

The Law of Thy mouth is better unto me than thousands of gold and silver (Ps. 119:72).
Christ Revealed:

As the Rock — the unmovable, eternal, unchanging Savior (Ps. 61:2; 62:2,6-7). Jesus is the Rock of our salvation and that spiritual Rock (Petras) that followed (accompanied) them (Israelites) (I Cor. 10:4).
Word Studies:

60:12 do valiantly, gain the victory, do great things; 61:4 covert, shelter, protecting power; 62:9 to be laid in the balance, they prove to be worthless; 63:5 marrow and fatness, the richest of foods; 64:6 search out iniquities, devise injustices; 64:8 their own tongue to fall upon themselves, their own words will bring them to ruin; 66:3 terrible, awesome.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Officials: Rep. Todd Akin (MO), Rep. David Dreier (CA), Rep. John Fleming (LA), Rep. Jim Himes (CT), Rep. Nita Lowey (NY), and Sen. Roger Wicker (MS) • Country: Japan (126.7 million) off the eastern coast of Asia • Major language: Japanese • Religious freedom • 49% Buddhist; 45% Shintoist; 1% Christian; 5% Other • Prayer Suggestion: Glorify God who is able to use national leaders to accomplish His purposes (Ezra 7:27-28).
Optional Reading:

1 Thessalonians 4

Memory Verse for the Week:

Psalms 34:1
 

[Judy Harder]

July 06, 2011     


Bible Pathways
       
Read Psalms 67 -- 71

Highlights:

A Messianic prophecy is recorded (Ps. 68:18) and its fulfillment proclaimed in the New Testament (Eph. 4:. Today's reading ends with the personal testimony of a devout old man praising the Holy One of Israel (Ps. 71:9,22-23) for his redemption.
Without God, life is empty and unsatisfying; a life of sin is soon disappointing, barren, and wretched: The rebellious dwell in a dry land (Ps. 68:6). Sin cannot produce peace, real love, or satisfaction. The person who trusts in God and His Word is led to praise Him regardless of life's ups and downs. Christianity has been misrepresented by Satan and his crowd as a gloomy, dull experience. But for a Christian all things work together for good to them that love God (Rom. 8:28). The fact is that our Heavenly Father equally loves every Christian so much that the very hairs of your head are all numbered (Matt. 10:30). This means He never overlooks any detail or any person. Regardless of what material or physical things we may experience as Christians, all is for our good and His glory. All things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to His purpose. . . . in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him that loved us (Rom. 8:28,37).

Even the trying experiences of life can produce good blessings. Trials are often a blessing in disguise and temporal loss can result in spiritual enrichment. Although we look forward to meeting Jesus, most of us want to make the most out of our life here, hopefully doing all we can for Him. So a Christian's greatest losses and crosses may lead to his greatest gains and joys. But it is far different with the rebellious. To them, earthly losses often lead to bitterness — the rebellious dwell in a dry land. The brightest prospects of sinful enjoyment eventually leave their victims empty and wretched.

To Christians the future is radiant, beautiful, and inviting. Thou . . . shalt quicken me (make me alive) . . . and shalt bring me up again from the depths of the earth (Ps. 71:20). But of the rebellious, Jesus said: Cast ye the unprofitable servant into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth. . . . These should go away into everlasting punishment: (notice what He said about true believers: But the righteous into life eternal (Matt. 25:30,46).

Thought for Today:

In the way of righteousness is life; and in the pathway thereof there is no death (Prov. 12:28).
Christ Revealed:

As the One who led captivity captive (Ps. 68:18). With His resurrection power, Jesus broke the captive power of Satan. When He led the Old Testament saints from paradise into heaven, He led captivity captive (comp. Eph. 4:8; also Gal. 5:1; Rev. 1:18).
Word Studies:

67:2 saving health, salvation; 68:4 JAH is an abbreviation for Jehovah — the Eternal, Self-Existent One — and corresponds to I AM THAT I AM; 68:13 pots, sheepfolds; 68:18 led captivity captive, led your captives captive — a prophecy concerning Jesus Christ (Eph. 4:8-9); 68:20 issues, escapes; 68:35 terrible =wesome, astonishing; 70:3 Aha, aha, an expression of scorn.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in memory of Iva Ann McElroy • Country: Jordan (5 million) in southwestern Asia • Major languages: Arabic and English • Religious tolerance • 93% Muslim; 5% Christian • Prayer Suggestion: Humbly kneel before the Lord with a contrite heart as you pray (Ezra 9:5-6).
Optional Reading:

I Thessalonians 5

Memory Verse for the Week:

Psalms 34:1
 

[Judy Harder]

Bible Pathways
       
Read Psalms 72 -- 77

Highlights:

Old, feeble, and near death, David prays his last recorded prayer (Ps. 72:20) — not only for Solomon as his son, but as the one in charge of the people of God. Asaph, David's song leader, laments: "Woe is me" and "It's not fair" as he sees the wicked prosper. Then he praises God that the righteous triumph. Learn a lesson from Asaph. In his trouble he chooses to remember: Who is so great a god as our God? (77:13).
The psalmist's transition from severe struggles to ultimate victory revealed the integrity of his heart. The psalmist observed: The ungodly, who prosper in the world; they increase in riches. . . . All the day long have I been plagued, and chastened every morning. . . . (Ps. 73:12,14). The psalmist saw those who blasphemed God, prospered and seemed to enjoy life while those who worshiped the Lord had great difficulties. Through the passing centuries this has been a problem for many Christians who don't read enough of His Word.

Even David wondered why it seemed the wicked were not plagued with sufferings that the people of God endured: I was envious . . . when I saw the prosperity of the wicked (73:3). But he gained a true perspective of life's problems when he went into the Sanctuary of God; then (he) understood . . . their end (73:17). David was humbled, and fresh insight caused him to confess before God: So foolish was I, and ignorant (73:22).

As Christians we have come to know the course of life's events under the protection of God. We can trust Him and thank Him in humble prayer for the needed grace (the countless blessings of God). We will have taken the path of daily fellowship with the Lord and a wholehearted surrender to live entirely for Christ. No Christian ever needs to feel slighted when others prosper, because no good thing will He (God) withhold from them that walk uprightly (84:11).

When all other resources fail, we will discover that God, and God alone, is adequate to provide our every need. Draw near to Him as we read His Word and His presence will brighten and beautify your life with His Light, endless love, and daily guidance.

Seek . . . first the Kingdom of God, and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you (Matt. 6:33).

Thought for Today:

Fret not thyself because of evildoers. . . . For evildoers shall be cut off: but those that wait upon the Lord, they shall inherit the earth (Ps. 37:1,9).
Christ Revealed:

As the Righteous Judge who will crush the oppressor (Ps. 72:2-4). Psalm 75:8 describes the judgment of God upon those who refuse to accept the salvation so freely offered by Jesus, the Lamb of God (John 1:29,34-36; comp. II Thess. 1:8-9).
Word Studies:

73:4 bands, pain; 73:21 pricked in my reins, emotionally disturbed; 74:2 the rod, the tribe; 74:4 set up their ensigns for signs, replace the symbols of God with their own symbols; 75:5 speak not with a stiff neck, defy not God with an insolent attitude.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in memory of Rose Frontero • Staff: Clarence Rathbone • Government Official: Rep. Judy Chu (CA) • Country: Kazakhstan (15.4 million) central Asia • Major languages: Kazakh and Russian • Religious tolerance • 47% Muslim (largely Sunni); 25% Russian Orthodox; 2% Lutheran; 2% Catholic; 2.3% Other • Prayer Suggestion: Pray and fast as you confess your sins and intercede for our nation (Neh. 1:4-6).
Optional Reading:

II Thessalonians 1

Memory Verse for the Week:

Psalms 34:1

[Judy Harder]

 Bible Pathways
       
Read Psalms 78 -- 80

Highlights:

The Israelites find themselves in trouble in today's Bible reading. They cry out to God to be saved, promise to remain faithful, and are restored. Oh how quickly we forget (Ps. 78:34-42)!
By great signs and miracles, the Lord delivered Israel from cruel slavery in Egypt. Furthermore, His gracious dealings with His people were manifested daily throughout their forty years in the wilderness. Nevertheless, again and again their spirit of discontent prevailed: They sinned yet more against Him by provoking the Most High in the wilderness. . . . they believed not in God, and trusted not in His salvation (Ps. 78:17, 22). Even though God blessed and provided their every need, they continued in their self-centeredness and selfishness. Words of praise and thankfulness or a recalling of His wondrous works were all sadly lacking. They remembered not His hand, nor the day when He delivered them from the enemy (78:37-42).

The Apostle Paul reminds us that: These things were our examples, to the intent we should not lust after evil things, as they also lusted. . . . Neither let us commit fornication (adultery and sexual sins). . . . Neither murmur ye, as some of them also murmured, and were destroyed of the destroyer (I Cor. 10:6,8,10). The result? The Israelites failed to enter the promised land.

True, there are times when we are plagued by doubts and questions. These are the times to remember that after the Apostle Paul prayed three times for his thorn in the flesh (II Cor. 12:7) to be removed, the Lord revealed to him a very precious Truth: My grace is sufficient for thee: for My strength is made perfect in weakness (12:9).

Now here is the point that needs special emphasis. All Christians are the chosen of God (Eph. 1:4) and are called out from among (II Cor. 6:17) the world as lights (Phil. 2:15) amid the darkness. As such, let us live our lives in childlike faith, desiring above all else to please Him. God is longing for us to trust Him and look beyond our human resources to His all-sufficient supply. Our never-failing God (Jer. 32: 27) has promised to protect and keep us (Heb. 13:5), and we can rest in the promises of His Word (Num. 23:19). In addition, He always strengthens us for the work He has called us to do.

Do ye think that the Scripture saith in vain, The Spirit that dwelleth in us lusteth to envy? But He giveth more grace. Wherefore He saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble (James 4:5-6).

Thought for Today:

For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end (Jer. 29:11).
Christ Revealed:

As the true Shepherd (Ps. 80:1). Christ is the Good Shepherd and the Door through which one must enter to be saved. He alone is The Way to heaven (John 10:9,11; 14:6).
Word Studies:

78:15 clave, split; 78:34 inquired early, sought diligently; 79:4 derision, ridicule; 80:3 Turn us again, Restore us; 80:8 a vine, Israel; 80:12 hedges, wall or fences; 80:18 quicken, revive.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in honor of Bridgett Radzik • Executive Director of the IBRA in our Washington DC Branch: Reverend Michael Hall • Staff: Beth Carlton • Government Official: Rep. John Dingell (MI) • Country: Kenya (29 million) in eastern Africa • Major languages: English and Swahili • Religious freedom • 46% Protestant; 27% Roman Catholic; 17% belief in mystical powers; 6% Muslim; 3% Eastern Orthodox • Prayer Suggestion: Confess and forsake any known sin (Neh. 1:6).
Optional Reading:

II Thessalonians 2

Memory Verse for the Week:

Psalms 34:1
 

[Judy Harder]

 
Read Psalms 81 -- 87

Highlights:

How sad! God, the Creator of the world, speaks; then He waits for His indifferent servants: I am the Lord thy God, which brought thee out of the land of Egypt. . . . But My people would not hearken to My voice. . . . they walked in their own counsels (Ps. 81:10-12). However, in times of trouble, the people quickly pray for protection. Our merciful Father forgives and the exiles return. The love of God is clearly expressed: No good thing will He withhold from them that walk uprightly (84:11).
Oh, for more of the intense desire of the psalmist who declared: My heart and my flesh crieth out for the living God. . . . O Lord of hosts, blessed is the man that trusteth in Thee (Ps. 84:2,12). Sometimes the unbelieving world may question the Christian who rejects many of the "pleasures" of this world. But the servant of the Most High God has discovered that all the pleasures of this rich man's world soon fades away. The Christian follows His Word and enjoys the peace of God, which passeth all understanding (Phil. 4:7). Both David and the psalmist knew God would not permit them to miss out on or be deprived of His best and that He would direct each step of life's way. All of us can experience this confidence since God is no respecter of persons (Acts 10:34).

The Lord's guidance comes a step at a time. Our human nature desires guidance as far in advance as possible instead of being content to walk with God one step at a time. Some of our mistakes in decisionmaking come from wanting to see beyond the next turn in the road before we are willing to proceed, others from racing ahead on our own, as Saul did (I Sam. 13:5-14), without praying or waiting on the Lord's leading. Though our actions may seem good and right in our own eyes, God declares that to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams (15:22). Saul missed God's best by not obeying Him, and we need not follow in his steps.

The child of God is to trust Him as did Abraham, who went out, not knowing whither he went (Heb. 11:, except that he was following the Guide who was leading him. Once we understand the loving care of God over each of His children, we need not allow fear to cause doubt and destroy our trust. This is the practical wisdom we should treasure in our hearts from Abraham, the "Father of the faithful" (Rom. 4). Do you doubt the Lord's step-by-step guidance of the future, as you continue reading all His Word? Then look back upon the years of your past. No child of God can do so without grateful praise and thanksgiving. P.T.L.

Thought for Today:

Some trust in chariots, and some in horses: but we will remember the Name of the Lord our God. They are brought down and fallen: but we are risen, and stand upright (Ps. 20:7-8).
Christ Revealed:

By Jerusalem, from where the psalmist declared that all of the springs (sources) of joy and happiness flow (Ps. 87:7). Jesus is the Source of our joy as the angel announced at His birth (Luke 2:10). Jesus also declared: These things have I spoken unto you, that My joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full (John 15:11).
Word Studies:

82:1 the gods, earthly rulers and judges; 82:4 rid, rescue; 82:5 foundations . . . out of course, administration of justice is ignored; 82:6 gods, My representatives; 83:2 lifted up the head, exalted themselves.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Assistant to the Executive Director of the IBRA in our Washington DC Branch: Terry Hall • Government Officials: Rep. Dave Camp (MI), Rep. Scott Garrett (NJ), and Sen. Lindsey Graham (SC) • Country: Kirabati (86,000) 3 islands in southwestern Pacific • Major languages: English and Gilbutese • Religious freedom • 52% Roman Catholic; 44% Protestant; 2% Baha'i • Prayer Suggestion: The Word of God, confession, and prayer bring the believer into close communion with God (Neh. 9:2-5).
Optional Reading:

II Thessalonians 3

Memory Verse for the Week:

Psalms 34:1

[Judy Harder]

 July 10, 2011   


Bible Pathways
     
Read Psalms 88 -- 91

Highlights:

Have you ever despaired in the night, calling out to God in your darkest hours like the psalmist in today's reading? Or, have you experienced the answer of God through His wonderful mercy as in this magnificent Psalm 89? Don't miss the 91st Psalm, one of the most-loved psalms, which pledges amazing promises of blessings.
Life is filled with both spiritual and physical dangers, and the psalmist regarded God to be his Refuge and strong Fortress (Ps. 91:1-2). The godly have a Refuge during pain, mental perplexities, and sorrows. The very nature of trials and testing suggests the possibility of failure.

Since many spiritual conflicts can end in defeat, Christians recognize their need for a Refuge and Fortress. Our adversary, the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour (I Pet. 5:.

Christians are hated by this world's system because we are not of the world (John 17:14). The subtle spirits behind the world system, many of its practices, amusements, and literature, are based on human reasoning by those who do not read the Word of God and refuse to recognize their Creator. Consequently, they are are opposed to the spiritual life of the true believer. Moreover, the child of God finds that in himself there are fleshly lusts, which war against the soul (I Pet.. 2:11). The Apostle Paul was led to reveal:The carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the Law of God, neither indeed can be. So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God (Rom. 8:7-8).

Though powerful forces and seductive influences of Satan seek to deceive and lead us astray, God has provided a powerful fortress (a protective wall — the Bible — the Word and will of God). The psalmist expressed the utmost confidence in the loving care of God: His Truth shall be thy shield and buckler (armor). Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; nor for the arrow that flieth by day (Ps. 91:4-5).

The victorious Christian has no confidence in the flesh (his own thoughts or others') (Phil. 3:3). His faith is in the Word of God: Be strong in the Lord, and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil (Eph. 6:10-11). We have no assurance of the Lord's protection if we choose ways that serve self or misapply His Word. But what is there to fear when one remains near The Most High, for His shadow falls constantly upon him.

The Lord knoweth how to deliver the godly out of temptations, and to reserve the unjust unto the day of judgment to be punished (II Pet. 2:9).

Thought for Today:

Submit yourselves . . . to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. Draw nigh to God, and He will draw nigh to you (James 4:7-8).
Christ Revealed:

By the seed (descendants) of David (Ps. 89:3-4). Concerning His Son Jesus Christ our Lord, which was made of the seed (descendants) of David according to the flesh (Rom. 1:3; also Matt. 1:1; Luke 3:31-32).
Word Studies:

88:13 prevent, come before; 89:10 Rahab in this context is a poetic name for Egypt (see 87:4; Is. 51:9); 89:24 horn be exalted, authority shall increase; 89:41 spoil, plunder; 90:13 let it repent thee concerning, change your judgment to compassion on; 91:13 dragon, serpent, a reference to Satan. And he laid hold on the dragon, that old serpent, which is the Devil, and Satan, and bound him a thousand years (Rev. 20:2; see also 12:3-4,7,9,13,16-17;13:2,4,11).
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Officials: Rep. Russ Carnahan (MO), Rep. Phil Gingrey (GA), and Rep. Tom McClintock (CA) • Country: Kuwait (2 million) in the northeastern corner of the Arabian Peninsula • Major languages: Arabic and English • Some religious freedom • 95% Muslim; 4% Christian • Prayer Suggestion: Intercede for your nation and friends in prayer with fasting and a self-sacrificing spirit (Esth. 4:16).
Optional Reading:

I Timothy 1

Memory Verse for the Week:

Psalms 34:2

[Judy Harder]

Bible Pathways
     

Read Psalms 92 -- 100

Highlights:

The Holy Spirit leads the writer to walk and talk with God, and then explains why and how to worship Him. God has made us and desires to guide our lives. Let us sing praise to the Lord. Praise Him for His holiness, His love, His faithfulness, and His long-suffering. Praise Him for our salvation. What a mighty God we serve!
The Psalms show forth the One True God! We serve the Lord (Ps. 100:2) because of who He is — the infinitely perfect Most High for evermore. . . . Clothed with majesty. . . . Judge of the earth. . . . Rock of my refuge (92:8; 93:1; 94: 2,22). Clearly, all who are believers have the utmost confidence; and the Psalms serve as a pattern for us to express this confidence: O COME, let us sing unto the Lord: let us make a joyful noise to the Rock of our salvation. Let us come before His presence with thanksgiving, and make a joyful noise unto Him with psalms. For the Lord is a great God, and a great King above all gods. . . . For all the gods of the nations are idols: but the Lord (our God) made the heavens and all things on earth (95:1-3; 96:5).

We come before the Lord, the Almighty, Triune God in prayer and with a joyful spirit — singing with thanksgiving, and praise, for the Lord is good . . . His Truth endureth to all generations (100:5).

As we reflect on the goodness of the Lord and His faithfulness, regardless of our circumstances we find: It is a good thing to give thanks unto the Lord, and to sing praises unto Thy Name, O most High (92:1).

Habitual faultfinding and dissatisfaction destroy the daily joy intended for us to experience through testings of our faith (James 1:2; Col. 1:11). We should recognize Christ as Lord of our lives each day, for we are bought with a price (I Cor. 6:20).

Let the Word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord (Col. 3:16).

Each day is a one-way street. Live in the consciousness that you cannot pass this way again. When we serve the Lord with gladness (Ps. 100:2), no day can be wasted. Our supreme need is to recognize Christ as our Savior and Lord of our lives. And this fact is a pathway that leads right into His presence with singing.

Blessing . . . and thanksgiving, and honour . . . be unto our God for ever and ever. Amen (Rev. 7:12).

Thought for Today:

Exalt the Lord our God, and worship . . . the Lord our God (Ps. 99:9).
Christ Revealed:

As the Creator: It is He that hath made us (Ps. 100:3). All things were made by Him; and without Him was not any thing made that was made (John 1:3; Eph. 3:9; Col. 1:16; Rev. 4:11).
Word Studies:

92:6 brutish, without regard to reason or propriety; 93:5 becometh, distinguishes; 94:20 throne of iniquity, workers of evil; frameth, devises; 95:7 of His hand, under His care; 99:3 terrible, holy, awesome.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Staff: Barbara Bivens • Government Official: Rep. Edward Markey (MA) • Country: Kyrgyzstan (4.7 million) eastern central Asia • Major languages: Kirghiz and Russian • Religious freedom • 75% Muslim; 20% Russian Orthodox; 5% Other (Jewish, Buddhist, Catholic, Protestant) • Prayer Suggestion: Pray and intercede for your family (Job 1:5).
Optional Reading:

I Timothy 2

Memory Verse for the Week:

Psalms 34:2

[Judy Harder]

Bible Pathways
     
Read Psalms 101 -- 105

Highlights:

Let your spirit soar as you join King David in humility and glory, singing and worshiping God the Righteous King. The reading closes with a historical retrospect and celebration of the Exodus from Egypt.
God often has painful surprises in His leading, such as a famine driving the people from the promised land, yet contributing to their possession of it. That famine occurred in the time of Jacob and forced him to migrate into Egypt (Gen. 41:56-57; 42:1-5). This famine was not a chance occurrence; God had ordered it to fulfill His purpose (15:13). God had also allowed Joseph to be forced into Egypt several years earlier.

After Joseph suffered many years as a slave, the Lord elevated him to be the second most powerful man in Egypt. Joseph knew his position in Egypt as the deliverer of the chosen people of God was not by accident but the fulfillment of his dream. Instead of denouncing his brothers for their cruel treatment of selling him into slavery, he said: Be not grieved, nor angry with yourselves, that ye sold me hither: for God did send me before you to preserve life (45:5).

For many years Joseph could not have understood his "unfortunate series of circumstances" that went from bad to worse as the Word of the Lord tried him (Ps. 105:19). God had promised his family the possession of Canaan and, in his dreams, he had recognized himself as the exalted and honored deliverer of his family. Joseph dreamed a dream, and he told it his brethren. . . . your sheaves . . . made obeisance to my sheaf. . . . The sun and the moon and the eleven stars made obeisance to me (Gen. 37:5-9).

During the years of his suffering and imprisonment, his faith was tested. For years, it seemed impossible for God to fulfill His Word and use Joseph according to his dream. God often moves in a way that is far beyond our ability to understand, but He will always accomplish His purpose and fulfill His promises. This incident of Divine providence encourages us to trust God amid life's mysteries.

The Lord is never late, even when His time isn't the time we would choose. He desires to build godly qualities into our lives. Perhaps it is patience or gentleness that we need. Let all who suffer wrongly trust fully in the Lord. The salvation of the righteous is of the Lord: He is their Strength in the time of trouble. And the Lord shall help them, and deliver them: He shall deliver them from the wicked, and save them, because they trust in Him (Ps. 37:39-40). God is no respecter of persons (Acts 10:34).

Thought for Today:

Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love Him (James 1:12).
Christ Revealed:

As the One who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases (Ps. 103:3). Forgiveness of sin and the healing power of God describe the ministry of our Lord Jesus, who was sent to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, To preach the acceptable year of the Lord (Luke 4:18-19; Matt. 9:6).
Word Studies:

101:2 perfect heart, blameless; a heart of integrity; 101:4 froward heart, an obstinate and evil mind; 101:5 cut off, destroy; suffer, tolerate; 101:7 tarry, continue to dwell; 102:26 wax old, deteriorate; 104:9 bound, boundary; 104:13 chambers, dwelling place, heavens.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in memory of Henry Rogers • Government Official: Rep. Betty McCollum (MN) • Country: Laos (5 million) in Southeast Asia • Major languages: Lao and French • Great suppression of all Christian activities • 58% Buddhist; 33% belief in spirits and ancestor worship; 2% Christian; 1% Muslim • Prayer Suggestion: Intercede in prayer for your friends (Job 42:7-10).
Optional Reading:

I Timothy 3

Memory Verse for the Week:

Psalms 34:2

[Judy Harder]

Bible Pathways
     

Read Psalms 106 -- 107

Highlights:

Want to take a 40-year trip? Travel with the people of God as they relive their desert wanderings. They confess their sins, including when they lusted (Ps. 106:14), murmured (106:25), mingled among the heathen (106:35), and shed innocent blood (106:38).
The magnificence of Israel's history was not the result of her heroes, priests, or prophets, but rather it was the fulfillment of the Word of God (Gen. 12:7). All failures which were written in their history — all losses, defeats in battle, famines, and exiles — to be seen as consequences of disobedience to His Word for they believed not His Word (Ps. 106:24). Finally, they praised God for their deliverance (107:19-20). There is a refrain in verses 8, 15, 21, and 31.

It is significant that the psalmist said: He sent His Word, and healed them (107:20) rather than: "The Lord healed them." It simply means there is nothing of this world that will sustain one's spiritual life and nothing in it that will satisfy the hungering and thirsting of the soul. His Word includes the Triune God and is the Healer of all sufferings and sorrows. Jesus Christ is The Word. There is no other reliable source of counsel for the inner conflicts that seek to control our minds and emotions.

He sent His Word — Yes, the same Word by which the heavens were made (33:6) and our lives were brought into a spiritual relationship with Him. His Word is Jesus come in the flesh as well as His Written Word: In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God (John 1:1). His Written Word, when believed and acted upon, is the means God has chosen to supply and satisfy every need through Jesus Christ who is the Living Word (Phil. 4:19).

God teaches us the necessity of faith in His Word and its unlimited resources. As our Lord often said: All things are possible to him that believeth (Mark 9:23). Most of us are prone to view our problems based on our or others' human abilities. But, throughout the Bible, we are taught the absolute necessity of relying on the Word of God to reveal His will for every problem and every situation — without exception. Through daily Bible reading and prayer, we obtain the insight to guide us to fulfill all the purposes He has for us.

This is the confidence that we have in Him, that, if we ask any thing according to His will, He heareth us: And if we know that He hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of Him (I John 5:14-15).

Thought for Today:

The Word. . . . is my comfort in my afflication: for Thy Word hath quickened me (Ps. 119:49-50).
Christ Revealed:

As the One who maketh the storm a calm (Ps. 107: 29). When Jesus calmed the storm, His awestruck disciples exclaimed: What manner of Man is this, that even the winds and the sea obey Him! (Matt. 8:27). Jesus offers to calm the storms of our lives and give us His peace (John 14:27).
Word Studies:

106:20 similitude, likeness; 106:29 inventions, deeds, acts; 106:30 stayed, stopped, checked; 107:11 contemned, despised, spurned.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in honor of Jesus Christ • Staff: Pam Murton • Government Official: Rep. Rob Bishop (UT) • Country: Latvia (2.48 million) eastern coast of Baltic Sea in northeastern Europe • Major languages: Latvian and Russian • Religious freedom • 20% Protestant (mainly Lutheran); 20% Roman Catholic; 15% Orthodox; .9% Jewish; .4% Muslim; 43.7% Atheist/Agnostics/Other • Prayer Suggestion: Delight in the Word of God; prayerfully meditate upon it for daily guidance (Ps. 1:2).
Optional Reading:

I Timothy 4

Memory Verse for the Week:

Psalms 34:2

[Judy Harder]

Read Psalms 108 -- 118

Highlights:

Picture David's mighty army as they go forth to battle singing Psalm 108! David prophetically speaks of Christ in His deity as King-Priest in Psalm 110. Let's rejoice with the psalmist in the Hallelujah Psalms (Ps. 111 — 113). The Lord preserveth the simple (sincere) (116:6). Come and exalt the Messiah with us, for His mercy endureth for ever (118:29).
When Jesus Christ ascended into Heaven, He fulfilled the prophecy which the Holy Spirit inspired David to write: The Lord (God the Father) said unto my Lord (God the Son), Sit Thou at My right hand, until I make Thine enemies Thy footstool. The Lord shall send the rod of Thy strength out of Zion: rule Thou in the midst of thine enemies (Ps. 110:1-2). Jesus quoted this Psalm as referring to Himself (Mark 12:36).

Christ will reign by divine appointment even though Israel, as a nation, rejected their Messiah-King. But, the Stone (Christ) which the builders refused is become the Head Stone (Christ) of the corner. This is the Lord's doing; it is marvellous in our eyes. . . . Blessed be He that cometh in the Name of the Lord. . . . which hath shewed us light (Ps. 118:22-23,26-27).

When we consider the Lord, how can we help but worship with the psalmist: Praise ye the Lord. Blessed is the man that feareth the Lord, that delighteth greatly in His Commandments (112:1). A reverential fear of God inspires a love for Him that will move us to delight in His Commandments. This reverence of God is an essential part of the life of a Christian.

The Father, who in His own time will reveal His Son from Heaven, is the God who, as we wait on Him, prepares us for the revelation of His Son. It is sometimes easier to be satisfied with our Christian experiences of the past or to study the prophetic events of the future than it is to be faithful in our responsibilities of today. There is also a danger of being more occupied with the "things" that are coming than with "Him" who is to come. Let us not allow the interest and pleasure of intellectual Bible study to replace our true love for Jesus Christ and His appearing. This would be like a poor bride thinking only of the position and the riches she is to receive from the millionaire she is about to marry.

It is not when we are most occupied with prophetic "subjects" that we are in the true bride's place but when our love and attention are upon our Lord (Bridegroom) and His Word.

Wherefore we receiving a Kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear: For our God is a consuming fire (Heb. 12:28-29).

Thought for Today:

With my whole heart have I sought Thee: O let me not wander from Thy Commandments (Ps. 119:10).
Christ Revealed:

Christ quoted Psalm 118:22: The Stone which the builders refused (rejected) — to the chief priests and the Pharisees when they willfully rejected Him as the Messiah (Matt. 21:42-45).
Word Studies:

108:7 mete, measure; 109:23 declineth, fades away; 111:7 verity and judgment, truth and justice; 112:9 horn, strength, power; 114:8 standing, pool of; 116:3 compassed me, surrounded me, entangled me; 118:13 thrust sore at me that I might fall, pressed me to the point of collapse.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Thursday Morning Prayer • Staff: Rita Guerra • Government Official: Rep. Tom Latham (IA) • 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: The Lord is a shield for you in times of trouble (Ps. 3:1-3).
Optional Reading:

I Timothy 5

Memory Verse for the Week:

Psalms 34:2