Bible Pathways

[Judy Harder]

June 22
Read Job 30 -- 33

Highlights In Today's Reading:

The humiliation and anguish of Job's present state is outlined in chapters 30 -- 31. Job accepts that wisdom begins with, resides in, and ends with God. 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 was still sitting in the ashes, covered from head to toe with intensely painful boils, a lonely sufferer who had been unmercifully criticized by his friends over an extended period of time. Day after day passed and his pitiful situation grew even more severe. In agony, he confessed: They abhor me, they flee far from me, and spare not to spit in my face (30:10). Spitting in the face of another was an expression of insult and great contempt (Deut. 25:7-10).

There was no end to the cruelty of his friends. Job confessed that his suffering became even more painful as they push away my feet. . . . mar my path, set forward my calamity. . . . Terrors are turned upon me (Job 30:12-15). As far as Job could determine, God was not hearing his prayers: I cry unto Thee, and Thou dost not hear me: I stand up, and Thou regardest me not (30:20). No one in biblical history other than Christ suffered such humiliation and intense pain in body, soul, and spirit. Job's situation was an extreme opposite of his former position of wealth and respect. He once had been chief administrator of the country and dwelt as a king (29:25); he delivered the poor that cried, and the fatherless, and him that had none to help him . . . was eyes to the blind, and feet . . . to the lame . . . a father to the poor (29:12,15-16). He had lived a godly life free from lust, lying, oppression, and neglect of the poor. He named 16 common sins that no one could accuse him of committing (chap. 31).

Job's three friends had not once expressed compassion or even a kind word because they assumed Job . . . was righteous in his own eyes (32:1). Job's understanding of the sinful nature of all mankind was remarkable. He said: Man that is born of a woman is of few days, and full of trouble. . . . Who can bring a clean thing out of the unclean? not one (14:1,4). As we consider Job, who at the time was the most perfect (spiritually mature) (1: person on earth, should we complain or be surprised when we are falsely accused or suffer?

Christ, the perfect Son of God, was shamefully slandered and abused on many occasions. He, too, was spit upon. Jesus said:

The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted Me, they will also persecute you (John 15:20).

Thought for Today:

Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution? . . . Nay, in all these things we are (can be) more than conquerors through Him that loved us (Rom. 8:35,37).
Christ Revealed:

Through the ridicule and affliction which Job suffered (Job 30:10-11). Christ was afflicted and spat upon. After Pilate delivered Jesus to the Roman soldiers, they flogged Him, hit Him with an open hand and spat on Him -- and then they crucified Him (Mark 15:15-20; also 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 wide break in the wall; 30:27 My bowels boiled My heart is continually troubled; affliction prevented every day brings more suffering; 31:10 grind unto be a slave to; 31:40 cockle thorny weeds; 32:19 belly feeling in my heart.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Arabic, English, & Spanish International Shortwave Broadcasts sponsored by a family that loves Jesus • Staff: Clarence Rathbone • Government Officials: Sen. Dianne Feinstein (CA) and Rep. Adam Schiff (CA) • Country: Saudi Arabia (20.9 million) on the Arabian Peninsula in southwestern Asia • Major language: Arabic • Christian worship services for foreign personnel are tolerated, but those who seek to convert Muslims to Christianity face persecution • 86% Sunni (Wahabi) Muslim; 10% Shi'ite Muslim; 1% Ismaili Muslim; 3% Others (including 600,000 Christians and some Hindus and Buddhists) • Prayer Suggestion: Wives, pray for a quiet, loving spirit to win your husband to Christ (I Pet. 3:1-2).
Optional Reading: Ephesians 5

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 7:14

[Judy Harder]

June 23
Read Job 34 -- 37

Highlights In Today's Reading:

Elihu gets critical and accuses Job of being arrogant (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).
Elihu was even more arrogant toward Job than any of his three friends: What man is like Job, who drinketh up scorning like water? Which goeth in company with the workers of iniquity, and walketh with wicked men. . . . Job hath spoken without knowledge, and his words were without wisdom. . . . For he addeth rebellion unto his sin . . . and multiplieth his words against God (34:7-8,35-37). His accusations against Job demonstrate how foolish our conclusions often are when we see a Christian suffering and we question why God would allow the affliction.

At times we tend to criticize and condemn another's actions when we simply do not know what God is doing or how He is working in that person's heart. Judging another person is a serious sin. It not only robs us of our fellowship with the Lord but places us under His judgment. Judge not, that ye be not judged. For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again (Matt. 7:1-2).

When Christians experience disappointments, sufferings, or tragedies, they sometimes become despondent. They feel that God is allowing the natural course of events to play out. As a result, they fail to pray in their times of greatest need. They didn't have the New Testament revelation where God directs us: Is any among you afflicted? let him pray . . . The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much (James 5:13,16). They also do not realize that God ultimately controls every situation in our lives regardless of how hopeless it may appear. He can and will use it for our good (Rom. 8:28; Gen. 50:20).

Our limited understanding cannot comprehend the infinite love of God, but we may be sure that He is infinitely wise and desires that we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to His purpose. . . . Casting all your care upon Him; for He careth for you (Rom. 8:28; I Pet. 5:7).

Thought for Today:

The anointing of God upon the song -- "Yes, Lord" -- has been a great blessing us every time we sing it in our devotions. The author Jean Lipsius has given permission to let the Pathway family be blessed too.
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 for evil men = of evil men; 36:8 holden = held fast; 36:16 no straitness no restraint or restriction; 36:23 enjoined = appointed; gave orders; 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 English International Shortwave Broadcasts sponsored by Ruby West and Mrs. Norma V. Hurst • Staff: Bernice Rathbone • Government Officials: Rep. Baron Hill (IN) and Justice Clarence Thomas • Country: Senegal (10 million) in western Africa • Major language: French • Religious freedom • 92% Muslim; 4% animism and ancestor worship; 3% Roman Catholic; .1% Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: Husbands, give honor to your wives, or else your prayers will be obstructed (I Pet. 3:7).
Optional Reading: Ephesians 6

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 7:14
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[Judy Harder]

June 24
Read Job 38 -- 40

Highlights In Today's Reading:

A quick replay: Satan challenges God: "Take away Your favor and watch Job curse You" (1:11). Job, hurting and confused, cries to God. God is silent. God speaks with an avalanche of questions no man can answer (chap. 38 -- 40) reminding Job of man's limited knowledge and His infinite wisdom. Job stands silent before God (40:3-5)!
God challenged Job to consider the limits of his wisdom compared to the wisdom of God, who created the vast constellations and planets that are spread throughout the heavens: Where wast thou when I laid the foundations of the earth? Declare, if thou hast understanding. . . . Who hath put wisdom in the inward parts? or who hath given understanding to the heart? Who can number the clouds in wisdom? . . . Shall he that contendeth with the Almighty instruct Him? (38:4,31,36-37; 40:2).

Neither the wisest astronomer nor the most spiritual person can explain or change one star in the marvelous array of Pleiades -- one of the most beautiful clusters of stars visible to the naked eye. The only true explanation of the arrangement of the universe is that which is recorded in the Bible. It happened on the fourth day of Creation (Gen. 1:14-19).

The answer of God revealed to Job how unqualified he was to question why the Lord would allow him to experience such pitiful humiliation and intense suffering.

Like Job, we may experience many trials that cannot be explained. But, without exception, every sorrow or suffering in a Christian's life will eventually be revealed as the loving and wise forethought of our Heavenly Father. Nothing is unforeseen and no one is overlooked. Joseph is an example. He was taking his brothers food and they responded by selling him into slavery. He was eventually falsely imprisoned. Years passed but eventually he said to his brothers: Ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good (Gen. 50:20).

However, there are others who fail to yield to the will of the Lord; such sin eventually results in misery, disappointment, and suffering. No one should expect a miracle to deliver him from the consequences of his own willful misconduct. There must be genuine repentance and a desire to do the will of God (II Cor. 7:16).

Though God may allow us to suffer much pain and grief, He may do so to test our faith in Him and His Word.

Job could have become bitter against God when he faced such devastating trials -- as many people have done in much less difficult situations -- but, instead, he remained faithful to God (Job 23:8-12).

God, in His mercy, will always forgive, but this biblical principle remains in effect: Whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap (Gal. 6:7).

Thought for Today:

I acknowledged my sin unto Thee, and mine iniquity have I not hid. I said, I will confess my transgressions unto the Lord; and Thou forgavest the iniquity of my sin. Selah (Ps. 32:5).
Christ Revealed:

As the One who laid the foundations of the earth (Job 38:4). By Christ, God created our universe (Heb. 1:1-2). All things were made by Him; and without Him was not any thing made that was made (John 1:1-3).
Word Studies:

38:9 swaddlingband = wrapping; 38:12 dayspring = dawn; 39:9 unicorn = wild ox; 40:21 fens = marshes.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for English International Shortwave Broadcasts sponsored by Myrtle Margie Smith and Mrs. Roy Floyd • Staff: Beth Carlton • Government Official: Rep. Steven Driehaus (OH) • Country: Serbia and Montenegro (11 million) on the Balkan Peninsula in southeastern Europe • Major language: Serbo-Croatian • Religious conflict • 41% Serbian/Montenegrin/Macedonian Orthodox; 33% Catholic; 11% Muslim; 1% Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: Pray for unity of spirit with other believers (I Pet. 3:.
Optional Reading: Philippians 1

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 7:14

[Judy Harder]

June 25
Read Job 41 -- 42

Highlights In Today's Reading:

God elaborates on the power and strength of just one of His creations (chap. 41). In contrast, the powerlessness of man is evident to Job who repents (42:1-6). The Lord rebukes Job's friends for their errors. Read whose prayers God accepts (42:8-9). God rewards Job for his faithfulness through the entire ordeal! Check out his blessings (42:10-17).
Much has been revealed in Job concerning the suffering of the righteous, but there are still many unanswered questions. But, through Job, we learn it is not meant for us to know the answers to all of life's problems.

Through a series of two cycles of discussion with Job, over 80 questions, God gloriously revealed Himself and caused Job to realize his own unworthiness. Note Job's answer: Behold, I am vile (unworthy) . . . I will lay mine hand upon my mouth (40:4). I know that Thou canst do every thing, and that no thought can be withholden from Thee. . . . I uttered (things) that I understood not; things too wonderful for me, which I knew not. . . . Wherefore I abhor myself, and repent in dust and ashes (42:2-6). He still did not understand, but now he did not question what God did or permitted.

Those who know God best are most conscious of their imperfections and unworthiness. When the godly Isaiah saw himself in contrast to the Holy God, he fell upon his face, crying: I am a man of unclean lips (Is. 6:5). This was also true of Daniel by the River Hiddekel (Dan. 10:9) and of John on the Isle of Patmos (Rev. 1:17). The Apostle Paul testified: For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing (Rom. 7:18).

Job recognized a far deeper revelation of God, understanding more of His ways than he had known before: I have heard of Thee by the hearing of the ear: but now mine eye seeth Thee (Job 42:5).

Job finally realized he did not need to know why. There is a revelation of God and His Word that goes beyond just believing the Truth and doctrines of the Bible. Those who have faith in God, as Job did, do not search for answers to all life's problems but simply trust our loving Creator. All fears and frustrations will vanish as we truly trust in His loving care. No one, through human reasoning, is able to understand why the godly suffer.

Let your conversation (conduct) be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for He hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee (Heb. 13:5).

Thought for Today:

I reckon that 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 Job's praying for his "friends" (Job 42:10). We are reminded that it is Christ . . . who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us (Rom. 8:34).
Word Studies:

41:13 discover the face of his garment strip off his outer coat of armor; 41:17 sundered  separated; 41:23 flakes folds; 42:6 abhor loathe; 42:10 turned the captivity restored the fortunes.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for English International and Radio Sri Lanka Broadcasts sponsored by Mr. John A. Payment • Staff: Dan Murton • Government Officials: Rep. Carolyn Kilpatrick (MI) and Rep. Leonard Lance (NJ) • Country: Seychelles (79,000) a group of islands in the Indian Ocean between Madagascar and India • Major languages: English and French • Religious freedom • 89% Roman Catholic; 8% Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: Pray that you will sanctify the Lord God in your heart (I Pet. 3:15).
Optional Reading: Philippians 2

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 7:14

[Judy Harder]

June 26
Read Psalms 1 -- 9

Highlights In Today's Reading:

A songbook of praise to God. Hearts soar, voices lift in prayer, the anguish of sin, the joy of salvation! Two ways to live: righteously or ungodly (chap. 1). Whose Son is King (chap. 2)? The Lord our shield (3:3); our peace (4:; our defender (5:11). The Lord hears and answers our prayers (6:8-10). The Lord our victory (chap. 9).
The key to the blessings of God begins with three negatives (1:1). The first negative is walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly -- meaning does not live by the advice of the unsaved or live by what is considered the acceptable "counsel" of the world. The ungodly who are referred to here are not children of God but may live a moral life and do good things but they are sinful in the eyes of God.

The second negative is nor standeth (place oneself) in the way of sinners. The sinner is an average person of the world who is speaking, acting, thinking, and living for himself. These people refuse to repent of their sins and let Christ be Lord of their lives. They may be proud to say that they are as good as their Christian neighbor.

The third negative is nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. The scorner has taken a firm stand against Christians who believe in Christ, who said: I am The Way, The Truth, and The Life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by Me (John 14:6). They believe that any religion is acceptable as long as it doesn't offend others. They consider themselves broad-minded and generous. But, in fact, the scorner also stands firmly against the One True God -- who is God the Father, God the Son -- the Lord Jesus Christ, and God the Holy Spirit (Matt. 28:19; John 3:34; 15:26; II Cor. 13:14; I Pet. 1:2; I John 5:6-7). He also opposes the Bible as the only revelation of the One True God and the Only True Guide for life.

In striking contrast, the first characteristic of the "blessed" man is that his delight is in the Law of the Lord (Ps. 1:2) -- the Word of God. His desire is that his life conform to the revealed will of God -- all of it. He knows that God has provided His Word as the One Source of spiritual food as well as daily direction.

Christ has come to deliver us from the penalty of the Law and to deliver us from the power of sin, that the righteousness of the Law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit (Rom. 8:4).

The "blessed" man daily conforms to the Word of God because God has written His Law upon the table of his heart and he desires to do the will of God. His testimony is: I delight to do Thy will, O my God: yea, Thy Law is within my heart (Ps. 40:.

He may not be materially rich in the sense in which the world esteems, but he has treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal (Matt. 6:19-21).

Thought for Today:

Keep thy heart with all diligence (guard your heart more than any treasure); for out of it are the issues (source) of life (Prov. 4:23).
Christ Revealed:

As the Son of God (Ps. 2:7). God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life (John 3:16; Acts 13:33; Heb. 1:5).
Word Studies:

2:2 Anointed (one) Messiah (Hebrew) and Christ (Greek); 5:6 leasing = lies.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for English International Shortwave Broadcasts sponsored by Iva Jo Swinsburg • Staff: Ken Sharp • Government Official: Rep. Neil Abercrombie (HI) • Country: Sierra Leone (5 million) in western Africa • Major language: English • Increasing restrictions on Christian work in some areas • 50% belief in river spirits, medicine men, and witchcraft; 39% Muslim; 7% Protestant; 2% Roman Catholic • Prayer Suggestion: Rejoice and consider yourself blessed when you suffer for the Name of Christ (I Pet. 4:14).
Optional Reading: Philippians 3

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 7:14
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[Judy Harder]

June 27
Read Psalms 10 -- 17

Highlights In Today's Reading:

Helpless? Cry to God (chap. 10), who is our refuge (chap. 11). Protection from a lying generation (chap. 12)! Sound familiar? Ever had to wait on the Lord (chap. 13)? The Bible says you're a fool if you don't believe in God (chap. 14). Look who abides in God (chap. 15)! Foretelling the resurrection (chap. 16). We can rely on God (chap. 17).
Although David may have thought of himself while writing this psalm, we find it exciting to read how the Holy Spirit foretold about our wonderful Lord as revealed about a thousand years before His birth in Bethlehem: For Thou wilt not leave my soul in hell; neither wilt Thou suffer Thine Holy One to see corruption. Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in Thy presence is fulness of joy; at Thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore (16:10-11). On the day of Pentecost, Peter quoted from this psalm as a prophecy of Jesus' death and resurrection (Acts 2:25-28,31).

The Old Testament represents departed spirits as the "real self" dwelling in a region called Sheol or Hades. Jesus said that Sheol had two divisions that were separated by a great fixed gulf. One division was called Paradise, and Jesus told the dying thief He would meet him there that very day (Luke 23:43). This is where Lazarus went to be with Father Abraham and other redeemed ones awaiting the great redemption that took place at the time of Christ's crucifixion and resurrection.

Jesus said there was another region where the "real self" of the departed unbelievers was imprisoned. This was the region described in the account of the rich man tormented in flames who cried out for one drop of water (16:19-31).

For death to be defeated, it was necessary for Christ's body to hang lifeless on the cross and that His "real self" should also go down to those who were dead. He went, not as a Victim, but as the Conquerer of death and as a Witness that His redemption has set the faithful free (Rev. 1:18). He also descended into hell to the unbelieving as the One they had rejected (I Pet. 3:19-20).

On that Resurrection morning, the stone was rolled away to reveal the resurrected Jesus -- the Firstborn from the dead (Col. 1:18). Others had been resurrected but soon died again. But Jesus will never die again. Yes, thank You Lord.

John also said: Every creature which is in heaven, and on the earth, and under the earth, and such as are in the sea, and all that are in them, heard I saying, Blessing, and honour, and glory, and power, be unto Him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb for ever and ever (Rev. 5:13).

Thought for Today:

In Thy presence is fulness of joy; at Thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore (Ps. 16:11).
Christ Revealed:

In the prophecy that God would not allow His Holy One to see decay (Ps. 16:10). This foretells the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ (Acts 2:25-27; 13:35-39). When Jesus spoke His Revelation to John, He declared: I am He that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death (Rev. 1:18).
Word Studies:

10:5 puffeth at makes light of; 10:13 contemn defy; despise; 11:3 foundations principles of society based on the Word of God.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Arabic International Shortwave Broadcasts in memory of Robert Barrie • Government Officials: Rep. Mike Honda (CA), Rep. Jeff Miller (FL), and Rep. David Scott (GA) • Country: Singapore (4 million) in Southeast Asia • Major languages: Chinese and Malay • Religious freedom • 54% Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, Chinese Traditional Religion; 15% Muslim; 9% Protestant; 4% Catholic; 3% Hindu; .5% Sikh; .2% Baha'i; 14.3% None/Other • Prayer Suggestion: Humble yourself before the Lord (I Pet. 5:5-6).
Optional Reading: Philippians 4

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 7:14
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[Judy Harder]

June 28
Read Psalms 18 -- 22

Highlights In Today's Reading:

Saved from our enemies (18:3). How to praise God (chap. 18). The Commandments of God (19:, the fear of the Lord (19:9) and the words of my mouth (19:14). Help from the Lord (20:7). We should all love the Lord as King David loves Him (chap. 21). This is a Messianic Psalm foretelling the suffering and death of Christ (chap. 22).
David desired that his conversation as well as his thoughts would please the Lord, and he prayed with all his heart: Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in Thy sight, O Lord, my Strength, and my Redeemer (19:14). This should be our prayer.

God does not force anyone to love Him or to live for Him. He only enters into and reigns in the hearts of those who desire Him. We cannot love Him or serve Him acceptably in ourselves -- it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of His good pleasure (Phil. 2:13). He is the source of any desire that we might have to please Him. God teaches His people to pray through reading His Word. Those who desire that their words, thoughts, and prayers please the Lord will read His Word (John 16:13).

Some trust in chariots, and some in horses: but we will remember the Name of the Lord our God (Ps. 20:7-8). This means some rely on physical resources that seem sufficient. But the people of God who pray and trust Him will rise up triumphantly, for God alone is invincible.

King David habitually inquired of the Lord and testified how God delivered him on every occasion. He wrote: In my distress I called upon the Lord, and cried unto my God: He heard my voice . . . and. . . . He delivered me from my strong enemy, and from them which hated me: for they were too strong for me (18:6,17). We should pray and trust God even more to answer our prayers because of Jesus Christ, our Redeemer/Intercessor and His indwelling Holy Spirit!

On many occasions the King of kings showed how important it is to give much time in fervent prayer. Before selecting His 12 disciples, He prayed all night (Luke 6:12). After one of His most pressing days and feeding the 5,000, He went up into a mountain apart to pray (Matt. 14:23). After the Passover meal He went to the Mount of Olives. Being in an agony He prayed more earnestly: and His sweat was as it were great drops of blood (Luke 22:44).

We have a far greater need for times of separation from all activities just to be alone with the Father in prayer and meditation upon His Word. If our prayer life is to be effective, it may require the sacrifice of sleep, business, pleasure, or even friends. In every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus (Phil. 4:6-7).

Thought for Today:

The Lord my God will enlighten my darkness. . . . His way is perfect: the Word of the Lord is tried: He is a buckler to all those that trust in Him (Ps. 18:28,30).
Christ Revealed:

As the One to whom the Psalms refer when they speak of the nails that pierced His hands and feet on the cross and the parting of His clothing (Ps. 22:16,18). When they had crucified Him, they parted His garments, casting lots upon them, what every man should take (Mark 15:24; also Matt. 27:35; Luke 23:34; John 19:18).
Word Studies:

18:2 horn of my salvation my strong deliverer; 18:26 froward (first use) = crooked; froward (second use) = opposed; 18:45 close places fortresses or strongholds; 22:5 confounded put to shame; 22:7 shoot out the lip ridicule, hurl insults; 22:17 tell = count.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Shortwave Broadcasts in memory of Henry Rogers • Government Officials: Rep. Donna Edwards (MD), Rep. Jane Harman (CA), Sen. Carl Levin (MI), and Rep. Ed Pastor (AZ) • Country: Slovakia (5 million) central Europe • Major languages: Slovak and Hungarian • Religious freedom • 60% Roman Catholic; 8% Protestant; 4% Orthodox • Prayer Suggestion: Let the Lord have all your worries and cares; He is always thinking about you and things that concern you (I Pet. 5:7).
Optional Reading: Colossians 1

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 7:20
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[Judy Harder]

June 29
Read Psalms 23 -- 30

Highlights In Today's Reading:

The Lord is my Shepherd and provides for His Sheep (chap. 23). The earth is the Lord's. . . . He is King of Glory (chap. 24). The meek will He guide . . . and . . . teach His way (25:9). Integrity is of utmost importance (chap. 26). David's example of triumphant patience and faith (27:14): in how God answers prayer (chap. 28); in the mighty power of God (chap. 29). Praise for His deliverance (chap. 30).
The Book of Psalms gives many precious reasons to praise and worship the Lord: The earth is the Lord's, and the fulness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein (24:1). The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? (27:1). When my father and my mother forsake me, then the Lord will take me up (27:10). I will extol Thee, O Lord; for Thou hast lifted me up, and hast not made my foes to rejoice over me. O Lord my God, I cried unto Thee, and Thou hast healed me (30:1-2).

Through the Psalms the Lord teaches us "how" to worship Him: Unto Thee, O Lord, do I lift up my soul (25:1). To lift up my soul unto the Lord does not mean a temporary or an occasional desire of the heart to please God; it means having a steadfast desire to set one's affection on Him. This takes place as we recognize how powerless we are in ourselves -- how utterly lacking in spiritual understanding apart from the Bible.

Give unto the Lord, O ye mighty, give unto the Lord glory and strength. Give unto the Lord the glory due unto His Name; worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness (29:1-2). When we lift up our souls to the Lord, our lives glorify Him. Then He enables us to bring into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ (II Cor. 10:5), which is the true beauty of holiness. Failure to do this has caused Christians to be confused, weak and defeated. But God provides power to the one who knows His Word, for the Word of God is quick (living), and powerful . . . a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart (Heb. 4:12).

As we commit our minds and bodies to our wonderful Lord, He imparts the desire, as well as the strength, to allow our emotions to be controlled by His indwelling Spirit. I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God . . . present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God (Rom. 12:1-2).

Thought for Today:

Give unto the Lord the glory due unto His Name; worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness (Ps. 29:2).
Christ Revealed:

As our Shepherd (Ps. 23). Christ called Himself the Good Shepherd and vowed to lay down His life for the sheep (John 10:11).
Word Studies:

26:1 slide = waver, fall; 26:2 reins = desires and thoughts; 26:4 dissemblers = pretenders, deceitful ones; 28:2 holy oracle = Mercy Seat in the Holy of Holies ; 28:3 mischief = evil.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Arabic, English, & Spanish International Shortwave Broadcasts sponsored by Mr. G.R. Bettle • Staff: Jennifer Cunningham • Government Officials: Rep. Virginia Foxx (NC), Rep. Collin Peterson (MN), and Rep. Harry Teague (NM) • Country: Slovenia (2 million) in southeastern Europe • Major languages: Slovenian and Serbo-Croatian • Freedom of religion • 81% Roman Catholic; 1% Muslim • Prayer Suggestion: Pray each day for the Lord to protect you from evil (I Pet. 5:.
Optional Reading: Colossians 2

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 7:20
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[Judy Harder]

June 30
Read Psalms 31 -- 35

Highlights In Today's Reading:

David's life is filled with his daily conversations with the Lord, just as ours should be. These psalms describe: his dependence on the Lord for protection and deliverance from his ever-present enemies (chap. 31,35); his admission of sin and of his need to receive forgiveness (chap. 32); and his complete joy and rejoicing in the love of the Lord (chap. 33 -- 34) -- all examples of how to live our lives.
When a Christian is consistent in giving praise to God, the humble shall hear thereof, and be glad (34:2), and others will also be encouraged to exalt the Lord: O magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt His name together (34:3). I will praise Thee among much people (35:18).

Praise in our worship services on the Lord's day, at mealtime, and during daily devotions is good and right and expected. But the psalmist went beyond the expected times of praise and said: My tongue shall speak of Thy righteousness and of Thy praise all the day long (35:28). Through the Apostle Paul we are admonished to rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice (Phil. 4:4); and be filled with the Spirit . . . giving thanks always for all things unto God (Eph. 5:18,20).

Some may ask, "How is it possible to praise the Lord continually?" This exhortation is directed towards those who have been humbled and made teachable -- often through much affliction and suffering. We must realize that God sees and knows our every trial -- as well as our every joy. Our loving god is always working to accomplish good for us, then we can rejoice . . . always. Even though, at times, we may not "feel" like praising Him, He is still greatly to be praised (Ps. 48:1). God used the Apostle Peter to remind us: Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings (I Pet. 4:12-13).

Constant praise to God -- through our conversation and actions -- we do bring honor to His Name. As we bless the Lord at all times (Ps. 34:1), we shall be delivered . . . from all . . . fears. . . . troubles. . . . (and) afflictions (34:4,6,17,19). Let them say continally, Let the Lord be magnified (35:27).

By Him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to His Name (Heb. 13:15).

Thought for Today:

I will bless the Lord at all times: His praise shall continually be in my mouth (Ps. 34:1).
Christ Revealed:

In the prophecy that not one of His bones would be broken as recorded concerning His crucifixion (Ps. 34:20). These things were done, that the Scripture should be fulfilled, A bone of Him shall not be broken (John 19:36).
Word Studies:

31:4 privily = secretly; 31:6 lying vanities = all other gods; 31:8 shut me up = given me over; 32:2 guile = deceit; 32:3 roaring = complaining; 35:12 spoiling = determined to take my life; 35:15 abjects = slanderers.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Shortwave Broadcasts sponsored by Dr. John A. Hash in memory of Letha Hash • Staff: Karen Hawkins • Country: Solomon Islands (455,000) in the southwestern Pacific • Major languages: 120 indigenous languages • Religious freedom • 66% Protestant; 17% Roman Catholic; 4% spirit worship, ancestor worship, and sorcery • Prayer Suggestion: Thank God in prayer for His faithfulness to His Word and His desire that all come to repentance (II Pet. 3:9).
Optional Reading: Colossians 3

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 7:20
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[Judy Harder]

July 1
Read Psalms 36 -- 39

Highlights In Today's Reading:

We are reminded of our sinfulness but then we hear of the perfection of God. Note how those that wait upon the Lord . . . shall inherit the earth (37:9). Every day is precious and fleeting; let us be thankful and not waste much of our lives on mere earthly pleasures and material things (39:1-6).
The children of God are often influenced by good people to misdirect their time from spiritual interests to "good" but secular things. The mouth of the righteous speaketh wisdom (conversation is continually wholesome and uplifting), and his tongue talketh of judgment (justice, eternal value). The Law of his God is in his heart (because God rules his heart); none of his steps shall slide (will not be involved in conversation or conduct that is not wholesome) (37:30-31).

A sincere believer is often tempted by Satan to fear that his faith is too weak, that his desire is not upright or as earnest as it should be, or that his surrender is not complete. When we desire spiritual maturity two things are good to remember: Though he (we) fall (fail to say or do what would glorify the Lord), he (we) shall not be utterly cast down: for the Lord upholdeth him (us) with His hand (37:24).

We should also consider that when we received Christ as our Savior and Lord, we were born again (John 3:3,5). As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God . . . which were born . . . of God (1:12-13).But, then, as babes we need to desire the sincere (pure) milk of the Word, that ye may grow thereby (I Pet. 2:1-2).

It is the loving desire of God to gain first place in the hearts of all His children. He imparts His love and power to all who are willing to yield themselves to Him. As we yield to God, we become conformed to the image of His Son (Rom. 8:29). We then discover great joy in loving the things that He loves.

Time given in reading, praying, planning, and doing for Christ is indispensable for spiritual growth and prepares us in humility to depend entirely upon the Lord Himself. Suspension of progress, obstacles, and setbacks remind us of our need every day to be dependent upon His great wisdom provided in His Word.

Our Heavenly Father has a greater desire to bless us than our desire to be changed. God, in mercy and long-suffering (II Pet. 3:9), waits until we yield to His ways.

In every true prayer, there are two wills that are involved -- one is ours which is limited in knowing what is best; the other is the Heavenly Father's with His perfect love and eternal wisdom. When the desires of God become our desires, our surrender to His will becomes the secret of effective praying and waiting upon God.

Let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing (James 1:4).

Thought for Today:

Lead me in Thy truth, and teach me: for Thou art the God of my salvation; on thee do I wait all the day (Ps. 25:5).
Christ Revealed:

As the Fountain of Life and the Light (Ps. 36:9). In Him was Life; and the Life was the Light of men. . . . That was the True Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world (John 1:4-9; compare 4:10,14; 8:12; 9:5; Rev. 22:1).
Word Studies:

36:7 put their trust under the shadow of Thy wings = rely on the strength of Thy protection; 38:2 Thy hand presseth me sore = Your punishment presses down on me; 38:8 roared = groaned with anguish; 38:11 sore = afflictions.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for our Military worldwide • Arabic International Shortwave Broadcasts for the month of July sponsored by Mary Hoffmeyer • English International Shortwave Broadcasts sponsored by Mrs. Catherine M. Parks • Staff: Dr. John A. Hash • Country: Somalia (7 million) on the Horn of Africa • Major languages: Somali and Arabic • Islam is officially favored and all other religions are opposed • 99.8% Muslim; .1% Christian • Prayer Suggestion: Rejoice that Jesus' blood has cleansed you from sin (I John 1:7,9).
Optional Reading: Colossians 4

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: Matthew 7:20
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