Bible Pathways

[Judy Harder]

Read Proverbs 23 -- 26

Highlights:

The thirty sayings of the wise continue. The Satanic deceptions of wine are vividly outlined (Prov. 23:29-35). More sayings of the wise (24:23-34). The advisers of King Hezekiah compiled more proverbs of King Solomon (25:2-26:28).
We are definitely not qualified to disagree with God who said: Hear thou, My son, and be wise, and guide thine heart in the (right) way. Be not among winebibbers . . . For the drunkard and the glutton shall come to poverty. . . . who hath wounds without cause? . . . They that tarry long at the wine. . . . At the last it biteth like a serpent (Prov. 23:19-32).

Alcohol is amazingly deceptive. The insidious "occasional" drink taken in moderation seems harmless and may even give the appearance of making life more enjoyable. But most "social drinkers" eventually discover that they are alcoholics and have exchanged a meaningful life for a degrading existence. Many who were once successful and influential have been reduced to uselessness because of alcohol. And, strange as it may seem, in their own minds they are convinced that they can take it or leave it and stop drinking at any time. Our Creator has warned that wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging: and whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise (Prov. 20:1). The warning from God of alcohol's poisoning effects is clear: At the last it biteth like a serpent, and stingeth like an adder (23:32).

Pity the person who tries to escape the pressures of life and "relax" with a "little" drink, unaware of the pitiful results of continued use of alcohol.

Alcohol takes control both chemically and emotionally, with both physical and psychological effects. Once a person is addicted, dependence upon it robs him of good judgment and, eventually, may destroy God's purpose for his life as well as those of others. Alcohol can produce unavoidable, irreversible, and far-reaching physical and emotional wounds.

The longer the victim of intoxication continues indulging in alcohol the more insensible they become to the consequences of their behavior. Gradually, they have allowed themselves to be in direct violation of the Word of God. The only release from these tragic consequences is the mercy of God. When a person truly repents, turns to Christ, and allows Him to be Savior and Lord of their life, the Holy Spirit becomes their source of strength to overcome sin. Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is. And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with (controlled by) the Spirit (Eph. 5:17-18).

Thought for Today:

Let us walk honestly (properly) . . . not in rioting (drinking parties) and drunkenness, not in chambering (sexual indulgence) and wantonness (unbridled lust). . . . But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh (Rom. 13:13-14).
Christ Revealed:

As the One who rewards those who repay evil with good (Prov. 25: 21-22). If thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink (Rom. 12:20). Jesus commanded: Love your enemies (Matt. 5:44; Luke 6:27,35).
Word Studies:

23:20 riotous, gluttonous; 24:26 Every man shall kiss his lips that giveth a right answer, A fair answer is as pleasant as a kiss on the lips; 25:9 discover not a secret to another, do not betray another man's confidence; 26:24 dissembleth, harbors deceit.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in memory of Audrey Hash • Staff: Ilene Wallace • Government Official: Rep. Martha Roby (AL) • Country: Qatar (600,000) in southwestern Asia • Major languages: Arabic and English • Muslim conversion to Christ is forbidden, but expatriate Christians are allowed to meet informally • 79.5% Muslim; 10.5% Christian; 7.2% Hindu; 1.8% Buddhist; .9% non-Religious/Other • Prayer Suggestion: Lift up your prayer of thanksgiving for the marvelous blessings of God (Ps. 18:1-3).
Optional Reading:

Hebrews 3

Memory Verse for the Week:

Psalms 34:4

[Judy Harder]

Read Proverbs 27 -- 31

Highlights:

Solomon is led to present basic moral and spiritual principles to guide the young and old alike in order to avoid the treacheries and deceptive pitfalls of sin that they are confronted with throughout life. The Book ends by describing the virtuous woman (Prov. 31:10-31).
The admirable description of the virtuous woman (Prov.31:10-31) sets a standard that most Christian wives and mothers pray they can live up to. But there is an underlying behavioral pattern here which outlines what God is looking for from all of us.

The word virtuous means moral strength (of character). It was used as Moses was searching for able (literally dependable and qualified) men such as fear God, men of truth, hating covetousness (Ex. 18:21).

In comparing the virtuous woman to rubies, she is a "rare, precious gem." The Lord says that the godly man is also rare: Help, Lord; for the godly man ceaseth; for the faithful (no longer the majority) fail from among the children of men (Ps. 12:1).

The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil (his needs are met, for she neither wastes nor wants). Additionally, she will do him good and not evil (Prov. 31:11-12). Interestingly, have no need is the same expression as not want (Ps. 23:1). Trusting in the Lord as her Shepherd, she manages the home and her efforts result in gain — no need for spoil. In doing good, and not evil she wants only the Lord's highest and best for her husband.

The godly woman takes pleasure in meeting the needs of her family. She rises early, makes wise decisions, is diligent and industrious, realizes that her labors result in successs, and reaps the fruits of hard work. Like the virtuous woman, godly people have a heart of compassion and show it through the deeds of Mercy. Wisdom . . . from above is . . . full of mercy and good fruits (James 3:17).

We should all, both men and women, be working to improve these traits. It is important to realize that all our other activities should honor the Lord. Then, when we finally lie down, in our sleep we will enjoy the peace of God, which passeth all understanding (Phil. 4:7).

Much is spoken in Proverbs 31 about clothing and coverings. Think of what Christ suffered that we might be clothed in splendor for eternity (Is. 61:10).

The virtuous woman's husband is honorable, a prominent leader in the land (Prov. 31:23). A virtuous woman is a crown to her husband (12:4). She is praised by those who know her. Men and women alike, will be greatly blessed because we feareth the Lord (Prov.31:30).

Thought for Today:

Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you (Phil. 4:9).
Christ Revealed:

As the One who descended from and ascended to heaven (Prov. 30:4). Jesus came down from heaven, even the Son of Man which is (now) in heaven (John 3:13).
Word Studies:

27:16 Whosoever hideth her hideth the wind, Restraining a contentious woman is like attempting to hold the wind; 28:11 searcheth him out, sees through him; 28:14 that feareth alway, who is always reverent; 28:17 stay, help; 29:10 seek his soul, has concern for his well-being; 30:23 odious, hateful.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in memory of Letha Hash • Government Officials: Rep. William Clay, Jr. (MO) and Rep. Glenn Thompson (PA) • Country: Romania (22.5 million) in southeastern Europe • Major languages: Rumanian and Hungarian • Freedom of worship • 69.5% Romanian Orthodox Church; 14% non-Religious/Other; 8% Protestant; 7% Catholic; 1% Muslim; .1% Jewish; .4% Marginal • Prayer Suggestion: Call upon the Lord in time of trouble, for He promises to hear us (Ps. 18:6).
Optional Reading:

Hebrews 4

Memory Verse for the Week:

Psalms 34:4

[Judy Harder]

Bible Pathways
     
Read Ecclesiastes 1 -- 4

Highlights:

Today we consider the things in life that do not satisfy. Key words are man, labour, and vanity. We see the theme that, apart from God, all is vanity (Eccl. 1:2); seeking after satisfaction in building things, indulging in pleasures, or gaining material riches, but none of these satisfies the human spirit. Sounds pretty hopeless, but read on; there is a wonderful answer!
Solomon's adventure in search of satisfaction apart from God ended in moral and spiritual disaster. Materially speaking, he boasted: So I was great, and increased more than all that were before me (Eccl. 2:9). But he also had to confess: Vanity of vanities, saith the Preacher (referring to himself) . . . all is vanity. What profit hath a man of all his labour which he taketh under the sun (1:2-3)? The wisest man on earth tried to substitute man's limited knowledge for the limitless wisdom of God in order to gain satisfaction. Although Solomon was successful in many things, he missed God's best for himself, as well as for his kingdom, because of his emphasis on pleasing self.

Solomon assumed that his vast material wealth was great, not realizing that spiritually he was a beggar. Worldly greatness is deceptive in that men imagine that they will eventually reach satisfaction. But their empty souls always desire more.

The pleasure-seeking Solomon began life with high hopes: I the Preacher was king over Israel in Jerusalem. And I gave my heart to seek and search out by wisdom concerning all things that are done under heaven. . . . I . . . have gotten more wisdom than all they that have been before me. . . . in much wisdom is much grief (1:12-13,16,18). I said in mine heart . . . I will prove thee with mirth, therefore enjoy pleasure . . . laughter. . . . wine. . . . great works . . . And whatsoever mine eyes desired. . . . behold, all was vanity and vexation of spirit (2:1-11). Life's fair promise became a dismal delusion. Nothing satisfied Solomon and eventually he said: Therefore I hated life . . . for all is vanity and vexation of spirit (2:17). As king of a great nation, he had anticipated unlimited delights. Solomon is a witness to the fact that no one can be satisfied with mere worldly pleasure and attainments. Those things can never fill the void in our hearts that is reserved for the One Person to whom we owe our supreme devotion — the Lord Jesus Christ.

We were not created to become satisfied with "things" but to become the person He desires us to be and to accomplish His purpose for our lives. This is not merely a "decision" we make in a moment but one that determines a lifetime and eternity. Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. . . . the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever (I John 2:15,17).

Thought for Today:

Labour not to be rich: cease from thine own wisdom. . . . for riches . . . fly away. . . . Apply thine heart unto instruction, and thine ears to the words of knowledge (Prov. 23:4-5,12).
Christ Revealed:

As God, the true Source of wisdom, and knowledge, and joy — the One who truly satisfies (Eccl. 2:26). We have the mind of Christ which is wisdom, knowledge, and joy (I Cor. 2:16; see also Luke 21:15; John 15:11; Rom. 15:14).
Word Studies:

1:13 sore travail, grievous task; 1:17 madness and folly, the ways of the foolish; vexation of spirit, very unsatisfying; grasping after the wind; 2:21 in equity, with skill; portion, inheritance.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Country: Russia (146.5 million) northeastern Europe and northern Asia • Major language: Russian • Religious freedom • 55% Russian Orthodox; 9% Muslim; 1% Protestant (Baptist, Pentecostal); .8% Shamanist/Animist; .6% Buddhist; .5% Roman Catholic; .5% New Religions (e.g., Hare Krishna); .4% Jewish; .1% Old Believers; 32.1% Agnostics/Atheists/Others • Prayer Suggestion: Let your faith in the Word of God overrule all fears (Ps. 18:30).
Optional Reading:

Hebrews 5

Memory Verse for the Week:

Psalms 34:4

[Judy Harder]

 July 29, 2011     

Read Ecclesiastes 5 -- 8

Highlights:

More exhortations that tell us how to live peacefully: When thou vowest a vow unto God, defer not to pay it (Eccl. 5:4). Suffer not thy mouth to cause thy flesh to sin (5:6). Be not hasty in thy spirit to be angry (5:4). Becasue to every purpose there is time and judgment (5:4).
It often appears that divine justice has been suspended as we observe all the chaotic, lawless conditions of the world. Because sentence against an evil work is not executed speedily, therefore the heart of the sons of men is fully set in them to do evil. . . . It shall not be well with the wicked, neither shall he prolong his days, which are as a shadow; because he feareth not before God (Eccl. 8:11,13). Furthermore, the oppression of the defenseless and the prosperity of the wicked is a great puzzle until we read all the Bible. It may seem as if God does not see the sufferings of the innocent or see the hypocrisy of the evildoers: I saw the wicked buried (with honor), who had come and gone from the place of the holy (8:10-11). Even in death itself, the wicked are often praised and buried with all the inappropriate recognition of their popularity. Yet, they failed to deceive either God or a person who has spiritual and biblical knowledge. The psalmist wrote: Fret not thyself because of evildoers, neither be thou envious against the workers of iniquity. For they shall soon be cut down like the grass, and wither as the green herb. . . . For evildoers shall be cut off. . . . For yet a little while, and the wicked shall not be (Ps. 37:1-10).

While the course of life seems to run smoothly, the sinner begins to imagine that God is indifferent to human conduct and can be ignored and Christians who are ignorant of the Word of God, are staggered by the delay of Divine justice to inflict penalty for the wicked sins of mankind. But the judgment which the Law of God attaches to sin is not an empty threat. We are warned: Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap (Gal. 6:7).

The seemingly successful course of sin will have an end, not one has final success. God Almighty always has the last word (Ecc. 12:14). If the word spoken by angels was stedfast, and every transgression and disobedience received a just recompence of reward; How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation (Heb. 2:2-3).

Thought for Today:

God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil (Eccl. 12:14).
Christ Revealed:

As One who expects us to keep our vows made to Him (Eccl. 5:4). So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God (Rom. 14:12).
Word Studies:

5:12 suffer, permit; 5:13 sore evil, great adversity or affliction; 5:14 evil travail, misfortunes; 6:3 an untimely birth, stillbirth or miscarriage; 7:2 lay, take; 7:12 excellency, advantage; 7:26 bands, chains.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Official: Rep. Diana DeGette (CO) and Rep. Jeff Denham (CA) • Country: Rwanda (7 million) in central Africa • Major languages: Kinyarwanda and French • Religious freedom • 80% Christian; 10.5% Muslim; 4.5% non-Religious/Other; 4% Traditional ethnic; .2% Baha'i • Prayer Suggestion: Ask the Lord to show you any sins that you are not aware of and to cleanse you of them (Ps. 19:12).
Optional Reading:

Hebrews 6

Memory Verse for the Week:

Psalms 34:4

[Judy Harder]

July 30, 2011     


Bible Pathways
     
Read Ecclesiastes 9 -- 12
Highlights:

The importance of our relationship to our Creator is stressed in today's reading. Despite wisdom, we continue studying our problems. Beware of a little folly. Now we find the conclusion of the matter. Good advice for all mankind is given in the final verses: Hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep His Commandments. . . . For God shall bring every work into judgment (Eccl. 12:13-14).
We have a choice of how we spend each day of our lives, but we cannot relive even one day. We can waste it on pleasures, as we are so prone to do. Rejoice, O young man, in thy youth; and let thy heart cheer thee in the days of thy youth, and walk in the ways of thine heart, and in the sight of thine eyes: but know thou, that for all these things God will bring thee into judgment (Eccl. 11:9).

How much better it is to remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth, while the evil days come not, nor the years draw nigh, when thou shalt say, I have no pleasure in them (12:1).

God, our Creator, is the Source of all true lasting pleasure and satisfaction. The writer speaks from experience when he urges all to worship and serve the Lord, who alone can satisfy. To do the will of God is to choose the best in life.

Satisfaction in life results from giving one's time, talents, and resources to fulfill the will of God. This is the only true source of lasting happiness, peace of mind, and genuine enjoyment in life. We are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained (planned) that we should walk in them (Eph. 2:10).

Therefore, it is foolish to seek riches, security, power, popularity, or earth's fleeting goals in life merely for temporary self-satisfaction. It is also self-destructive to yield to the lust of the flesh (gratification of the physical nature), and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life (I John 2:16).

God deserves to be glorified in all His Creation. The heavens declare the glory of God (Ps. 19:1) in obedience to His eternal laws of the universe. We can glorify God only by being submissive to His will as revealed in His Word. The Christian's transformed nature will express the nature of God, reflecting His Truth, His Love, His Righteousness.

Solomon, whose heart was not perfect with (not wholy devoted to) the Lord his God (I Kin. 11:4) had many regrets. He confessed: I hated life (Eccl. 2:17). In striking contrast David, the one who remembered his Creator from the days of his youth, in his old age was able to say with satisfaction: In Thy presence is fulness of joy; at Thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore (Ps.16:11).

Thought for Today:

Will the choices I make each day enable me to say with Paul: I have fought a good fight . . . I have kept the fatih (II Tim. 4:7)?
Christ Revealed:

In the statement, For God shall bring every work into judgment (Eccl. 12:14). Jesus will judge all, for the Father (God) judgeth no man, but hath committed all judgment unto the Son (Jesus) (John 5:22).
Word Studies:

10:14 is full of words =b> talks as though he knows everything about which he knows nothing; 10:15 he knoweth not how to go to the city =b> he is ignorant concerning the most obvious matters; 12:11 goads =b> rods sharpened at the ends, used in driving oxen (Judg. 3:31; I Sam. 13:21); The words of the wise are as goads =b> The words of wisdom rouse into action to do right.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in honor of Rick Hash • Government Official: Rep. Quico Canseco (TX) • Country: Samoa (190,000) in the South Pacific • Major languages: Samoan and English • Religious freedom • 68% Protestant; 21% Roman Catholic; 2% Baha'i; 1.1% non-Religious/Other • Prayer Suggestion: Ask the Lord to deliver you from willful sins (Ps. 19:13).
Optional Reading: Hebrews 7

Memory Verse for the Week:

Psalms 34:4
 

[Judy Harder]

July 31, 2011     


Bible Pathways
     
Read Song of Solomon 1 -- 8
Highlights:

This beautiful love story shows the love of God for Israel and illustrates the love of Christ for His Church. It provides a model for the quality of love God desires to see between a man and his wife as well as our love for His Church. It opens with a Shulamite maiden working in a vineyard. A handsome stranger wins her heart. He promises to return, and when he does he reveals himself as the mighty monarch.
The Song of Solomon is a poem of love. The Book praises the mutual love between a husband and wife and thereby teaches us to honor married love.

The reading of this Song should lead us to praise the Creator who made the human body. It was God who led Eve, the first bride, to Adam her admiring bridegroom. Seeing and experiencing the purity and holiness of this earthly bond of love instituted by God will also lead us to a better understanding of and appreciation for the love relationship which is heavenly and eternal — the love relationship that should exist in the believer's heart toward his Lord and His Church.

Many see in this Song a parable of the great love of Christ for His Church and the believer's desire for and enjoyment of Christ's love. In fact, the Apostle Paul used marriage to illustrate the bond of love which exists between Christ and His Church (Eph. 5:22-33).

As the Shulamite woman expressed: My beloved is mine, and I am his (Song 2:16). So every believer is assured that Jesus Christ has become an intimate part of our lives. Our love relationship continues to grow and deepen as we listen to Him speak to us as we read and meditate on His Word.

As Christians, sometimes we enjoy a very close sense of the presence of Christ and can say with the Shulamite: His left hand is under my head, and his right hand doth embrace me (2:6). But there are times when His presence seems far away: By night on my bed I sought him whom my soul loveth: I sought him, but I found him not (3:1). Yet our love for Christ continues to grow as we wait expectantly for that first glimpse of Him when He welcomes us home (Eph. 5:31-32; I Thess. 4:16-17).

The most poverty-stricken Christian is rich, for he can say: I am my beloved's and his desire is toward me (Song 7:10). Amazing condescension that the King of glory can stoop from His throne to love a worthless beggar who has been taken from the gutter! The soul that gives up all for Him will be fully satisfied with His love.

Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us, and sent His Son to be the propitiation (atonement) for our sins (I John 4:10).

Thought for Today:

My soul doth magnify the Lord, And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour (Luke 1:46-47).
Christ Revealed:

As the chiefest (outstanding) among ten thousand (Song 5:10). Jesus is the KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS (Rev. 19:16).
Word Studies:

1:3 savour =b> fragrance; 1:11 borders =b> ornaments; 1:12 spikenard =b> perfume; 1:16 our bed is green =b> we recline on a grassy field; 2:5 Stay me =b> Invigorate me; flagons =b> delicacies; sick of love =b> overcome; lovesick; 4:4 bucklers =b> small shields; 5:4 bowels =b> heart; 8:5 raised =b> awakened.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Dr. John A. Hash • Staff: Rick Hash • Government Officials: Gov. Deval Patrick (MA) and Rep. Joe Wilson (SC) • Country: San Marino (25,000) inside north-central Italy • Major language: Italian • Religious freedom • 95% Roman Catholic; 5% atheist • Prayer Suggestion: Pray that your words and thoughts will be pleasing to the Lord (Ps. 19:14).
Optional Reading: Hebrews 8

Memory Verse for the Week:

Psalms 34:19
 

[Judy Harder]

August 01, 2011     


Bible Pathways
       
Read Isaiah 1 -- 4
Highlights:

God is angry! Why (Is. 1:4)? To disobey is to invite punishment (1:5). Genuine praise goes beyond praying and on to serving people (1:17). A vision of the Lord's future reign in the most important place on earth (2:2-3). God promises glorious restoration to Israel (4:2-6).
Isaiah was burdened over the sins of the nation of Judah and appealed to them to hear the Word of the Lord (Is. 1:10). They had been chosen to be the Lord's instrument of blessing to all nations, for out of Zion shall go forth the Law, and the Word of the Lord from Jerusalem (2:3). But they rejected the Word of the Lord and became a land . . . full of idols (2:. They finally forfeited their privileged calling by becoming a sinful nation, a people laden with iniquity, a seed of evildoers, children that are corrupters: they have forsaken the Lord, they have provoked the Holy One of Israel unto anger (1:4). Even their "worship" had become an abomination (1:13), and Isaiah foretold their devastating defeat (3:25-26).

There is everything good in the character of God, in the ministry of Christ, and in the power of the Holy Spirit to inspire and confirm our confidence in His Word. The will of God is that all who come to Him, He will in no wise cast out, regardless of past sins and failures (John 6:37). God is willing to forgive all sinners who will confess and forsake their sins, for the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanseth us from all sin (I John 1:7).

The outflow of holy displeasure contained in earlier portions of the first chapter of Isaiah should prepare us to expect an everlasting condemnation upon all who fail to come to Jesus Christ. But, surprisingly, it is followed by the most loving invitation ever presented by the Most High to all of His creation. God in mercy is still saying to sinners: Come now, and let us reason together (Is. 1:18).

As abhorrent as sin is to the holy nature of God, it is a fact that sinners discover that the loving arms of God are extended to forgive, to restore, and to comfort all who will come now. Let us daily meditate and pray the prayer that the Lord taught us: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be Thy Name. Thy Kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For Thine is the Kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever (Matt. 6:9-13). Jesus Christ will return to rule as King of kings, but He holds us accountable to make Him "Lord" of our lives now. And hereby we do know that we know Him, if we keep His Commandments (I John 2:3).

Thought for Today:

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

As the One who will judge the nations (Is. 2:2-4). The Lord Jesus Christ . . . shall judge the quick and the dead at His appearing (II Tim. 4:1).
Word Studies:

1:13 vain oblations =worthless sacrifices offered by hypocrites; 2:12 day of the Lord =the coming judgment upon the unfaithful as well as the time of rejoicing for the faithful; 3:18 cauls, and their round tires like the moon =headbands bejeweled with sun and moon ornaments; 3:22 crisping pins =money bags or purses; 3:24 stomacher =rich robe; 4:4 blood of Jerusalem =Jerusalem was guilty of killing innocent prophets.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for our Military worldwide • International Broadcasts • Government Official: Rep. Sue Myrick (NC) • Country: Sao Tome and Principe (155,000) two larger and several smaller islands in the Gulf of Guinea, 125 miles off the western coast of Africa • Major language: Portuguese • Religious freedom is fairly new • 83% Roman Catholic; 3% Protestant; 2% animist • Prayer Suggestion: Ask the Lord to reveal His perfect will for you (Ps. 25:4).
Optional Reading: Hebrews 9

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:

Psalms 34:19
 

[Judy Harder]

Read Isaiah 5 -- 9

Highlights:

The brilliance of the holiness of the Lord reveals the darkness of our sin (6:5). Send me (6:. Will you go? God always leaves a seed (6:13)! Prophecies of Jesus, the Light of the World (7:14-16; 9:1-7). Whatever the circumstances, keep trusting God (8:19-20).
The Prophet Isaiah lived in Jerusalem, the capital of Judah. His ministry continued for 50 to 60 years during the reigns of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, Hezekiah, and possibly Manasseh. Isaiah saw himself as utterly unfit to stand in the presence of the Almighty Holy One. For guilty people there is cleansing; and lips, once unclean, can be made holy. One of the great obstacles to this cleansing — to seeing ourselves as we really are — is self-sufficiency.

When we recognize God as the Holy and Mighty Creator, then we can't help but see ourselves as unclean: I am undone . . . a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips: for mine eyes have seen the King, the Lord of hosts (Is. 6:5). This self-evaluation is made in response to the fact that we have experienced the Most Holy God.

The Heavenly King is identified as the Lord of hosts 62 times in the Book of Isaiah. Isaiah also foretold: Unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given: and the government shall be upon His shoulder: and His Name shall be called Wonderful, Counseller, The Mighty God, The Everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace (9:6).

Isaiah submitted himself in self-surrender as an instrument in the hand of God. He was ready to go where God might lead him. In the midst of evil and unbelief, God gave Isaiah the privilege of proclaiming the coming Messiah to an evil king (Ahaz): Therefore the Lord Himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a Son, and shall call His Name Immanuel (7:14). The name Immanuel means "God with us." Not only did the prophet foretell the virgin birth of Jesus, but he also revealed His deity.

Isaiah was called to prophesy to an unbelieving and sinful generation that had forsaken God (6:9-12). It was an age of international political tension and prosperity when only a minority in the Southern Kingdom of Judah remained faithful to Jehovah. The Northern Kingdom of Israel, under Jeroboam II, also was enjoying prosperity; but it was even more corrupt than Judah — socially, politically, and morally.

The call of God demands that we be faithful — not always successful. Men measure by success, but God by faithfulness. It is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful (I Cor. 4:2).

Thought for Today:

Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God (II Cor. 3:5).
Christ Revealed:

Isaiah reveals that a Child shall be born; a Son shall be given; and that the government shall be upon His shoulder (Is. 9:6). The kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of His Christ; and He shall reign for ever and ever (Rev. 11:15).
Word Studies:

5:1 vineyard the Israelites; 5:5 go to listen to Me; 5:23 reward bribes; 7:16 abhorrest hate, despise; 8:21 hardly bestead sorely distressed, hard pressed; 9:9 stoutness arrogance.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts: In honor of Isabella & Olivia Kaufman • Staff: Chris Robison • Government Officials: Rep. Dan Boren (OK) and Rep. Michael Ross (AR) • 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: Pray for understanding of His will as you read the Word of God (Ps. 25:5).
Optional Reading:

Hebrews 10

Memory Verse for the Week:

Psalms 34:19

[Judy Harder]

Read Isaiah 10 -- 14

Highlights:

God allows evil kings to punish Israel, but He also punishes evil kings for harming Israel (Is. 10). A prophetic picture of Christ returning in glory (chap. 11); The Holy One of Israel (12:6); our salvation (12:2).

Salvation and fellowship with God are two great themes of the Bible. All who believe the Word of God and trust Christ as their personal Savior receive the Living Water and experience spiritual satisfaction beyond compare. Behold, God is my salvation. . . . Therefore with joy shall ye draw water out of the wells of salvation. . . . Praise the Lord, call upon His Name, declare His doings among the people (Is. 12:2-4). Living for the Lord then becomes our way of life, and our greatest joy is to lead others to the wellspring of eternal life. His well of life-giving water is truly overflowing and inexhaustible, just as the nature of God. Jesus said to the Samaritan woman: Whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life (John 4:14). His invitation is to come to the wells of salvation (Is. 12:1-3).

All the wells of salvation are in Christ; and from Him the believer receives the priceless Living Water that satisfies the spiritually thirsty. The wells of salvation are revealed in His Word (John 4:10; 7:37-38).

We cannot afford to neglect the joy of drawing from the water of salvation provided in His Word for the day-by-day cleansing from all sin. Jesus taught us to pray: Give us this day. . . . forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors (Matt. 6:11-12). We praise the Lord that we have been cleansed with the washing of water by the Word (Eph. 5:26). There is a precious assurance of acceptance and fellowship with God. This comfort is real, abiding, and inexpressibly precious.

Can we praise the Lord, call upon His Name, declare His doings among the people, make mention that His Name is exalted (Is. 12:4) amid difficulties and disappointments, heartaches, and loneliness? Can we sing unto the Lord (12:5)? Yes, it is possible. How? By looking beyond ourselves and recognizing that the Sovereign God has a purpose for everything He allows to come into our lives and has placed us exactly where we are at this time for our eternal good (Rom. 8:28). We can learn from every circumstance, proving and proclaiming that His grace is sufficient in any situation.

He said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for My strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me (II Cor. 12:9).

Thought for Today:

Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities . . . for when I am weak, then am I strong (II Cor. 12:10).
Christ Revealed:

As the Descendant of Jesse, King David's father (Is. 11:1; comp. Luke 3:23,31-32). Isaiah 11 reveals Christ's coming earthly rule of righteousness. One day soon Jesus will return to earth in all the fullness of His glory and will be accompanied by His angels. Then He will set up the millennial Kingdom of His creation; this will be the beginning of His rightful eternal rule over His creation (Matt. 25:31-46; also Rev. 20-22).
Word Studies:

10:1 grievousness oppression, injustice; 10:12 high aroud; 10:20 stay rely; 10:22 consumption destruction; 10:33 lop cut off; 14:16 narrowly look upon gaze at.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Staff: Dan Murton • Government Official: Rep. Christopher Murphy (CT) • 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: Ask the Lord to be merciful and to forgive your sins (Ps. 25:6-7).
Optional Reading:

Hebrews 11

Memory Verse for the Week:

Psalms 34:19

[Judy Harder]

Read Isaiah 15 -- 21

Highlights:

God warns: "You'll be sorry if you mess with My children!" (Gen. 12:3). Learn from His judgments against Moab in Isaiah 15 — 16; Damascus (Syria) (Is. 17); Ethiopia (chap. 18); Egypt (chap. 19 — 20); Babylon, Edom, Arabia (chap. 21). God sifts our lives with disappointments, suffering, losses, etc. to remove the chaff and draw us closer to Him (21:10).
Isaiah foretold that the glory of Jacob shall be made thin (Is. 17:4) and would be like wasted wheat left scattered on the ground after the harvest had been gathered (17:5). The destruction would be complete. There was nothing for Judah to look forward to except a long and dark period of Babylonian captivity. The few who were left would realize that it was the result of their sin and that turning to God was their only hope. At that day shall a man look to his Maker, and his eyes shall have respect to the Holy One of Israel (17:7-8). Many times, the people of God have had to face a crisis before they would humble themselves and repent of sin, turning to the Lord with all their hearts.

After Israel's dark 70-year period of Babylonian captivity, Babylon would fall to the Medes and Persians. Isaiah prophesied its fall like a watchman stationed in a watchtower (21:1-10).

When the Christian looks out upon the world around him, he will find himself surrounded by a moral and spiritual night — a dark night of unbelief and sin — because men loved darkness rather than light (John 3:19). Only the children of God have a glorious light within them. Every earnest Christian is to be a watchman who longs for the advent of Christ's coming and the world's new morning.

If we are to inherit the Lord's best during our short lives, it is of utmost importance that we not allow anything to keep us from giving Christ first place in our lives and living to please Him. The desire for material possessions, a person, or personal pleasure has kept many from being used by the Lord to take His message of eternal life to a lost world. But a person who earnestly desires to please the Lord will see that our earthly possessions really belong to God; they have only been entrusted to us to give us an opportunity to lay up treasures in heaven — the lives of those we have pointed to eternal life (Matt. 6:20-21; Luke 16:9).

No one can experience true satisfaction or the peace of God, which passeth all understanding (Phil. 4:7; John 14:27; 16:33) until his desire to please God is greater than his desire to please self — or anyone else.

Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it (Matt. 7:13-14).

Thought for Today:

Incline my heart unto Thy Testimonies, and not to covetousness (Ps.119:36).
Christ Revealed:

As the One who will sit on the throne of David (Is. 16:5). The angel Gabriel told the virgin Mary that the Lord God shall give unto Him the throne of His father David (Luke 1:32-33). Christ also is revealed as the Saviour (Is. 19:20; comp. Matt. 1:21; Luke 2:11).
Word Studies:

16:3 bewray betray; 16:11 my bowels my inner being, heart; 17:11 a heap a failure; 19:8 angle looks; 21:14 prevented with their bread him that fled gave food and water to the fugitives.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in memory of Heidi Gulla • Government Officials: Pres. Barack Obama, Rep. Keith Ellison (MN), and Rep. Robert Andrews (NJ) • 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: Seek the guidance of God in meekness (Ps. 25:9).
Optional Reading:

Hebrews 12

Memory Verse for the Week:

Psalms 34:19