Bible Pathways

[Judy Harder]

 August 05, 2011     


Bible Pathways
     
Read Isaiah 22 -- 26

Highlights:

Isaiah weeps as God judges unrepentant Jerusalem, which uncaringly eats and drinks, then is destroyed (Is. 22:1-14). Wicked leaders deposed (22:15-25). Judgment and salvation promised (chap. 25). Our only deliverance from sin and its consequences (26:4).
The Author of true peace is none other than our Lord, the God of peace (Rom. 15:33; 16:20; Phil. 4:9). His peace is illustrated as a river (Is. 48:18; 66:12) that swells and rolls onward until it carries sin and sorrow away as far as the east is from the west (they never meet as do north and south) (Ps. 103:12) — to be remembered no more (Heb. 10:17). Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on Thee (Is. 26:3). In every trial the child of God is enabled to rejoice in the Lord, knowing the Lord is at hand (Phil. 4:4-5).

If His perfect peace is to be experienced, we must be born again and trust ourselves in sincere, childlike faith to Christ, the Source of all true peace. The Apostle John said: As many as received Him (Jesus) . . . were born . . . of God (received the spiritual nature of God). . . . Except a man be born again, he cannot . . . enter into the Kingdom of God (John 1:12-13; 3:3-18).

Sometimes, for our best spiritual benefit, God has been pleased to withdraw all evidence of His presence for a season as He did with Job (Job 23:8-9). Many believers experience unnecessary frustration by letting temptations, sorrows, suffering, and disappointments overshadow Christ's presence like the uncertain weather or wind on a dark night. No chastening (trial, discipline) for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous (painful, most unpleasant): nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness (His peace) unto them which are exercised thereby (trained by it to allow their faith to overcome all fears) (Heb. 12:11). Now faith is the substance (assurance) of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen (11:1). The presence of Christ does not depend on our feelings, which are as changeable as the clouds, but on the unchangeableness of His love.

We will experience His peace when we recognize that no good thing will He withhold from them that walk uprightly (Ps. 84:11). So in the midst of all the conflicts of life, we may have perfect peace (Is. 26:3) when we are in submission to the Lord of peace (II Thess. 3:16). Our circumstances often are not pleasant, but we can be satisfied knowing that in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him that loved us (Rom. 8:37).

Thought for Today:

Great peace have they which love Thy Law: and nothing shall offend them (Ps. 119:165).
Christ Portrayed:

By Eliakim, master of Hezekiah's household (Is. 22:20-22); what was said of him is true of Christ who is Master over the household of faith. Christ . . . a Son over His own house; whose house are we (Heb. 3:6; Gal. 6:10).
Word Studies:

22:1 valley of vision Jerusalem; 22:2 stirs shoutings; 23:13 raised up destroyed; 24:7 mourneth laments, sorrows; 24:15 fires dawning light; 24:19 clean dissolved split open; 24:23 ancients elders; 26:7 weigh make straight, lead in the right way.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts • Government Official: Gov. Brian Sandoval (NV) and Rep. Michael Doyle (PA) • 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: Ask the Lord to forgive your sins (Ps. 25:11).
Optional Reading:

Hebrews 13

Memory Verse for the Week:

Psalms 34:19
 

[Judy Harder]

Read Isaiah 27 -- 31

Highlights:

God deals out "tough love" to Israel (Is. 27:11) and Judah (29:1-6). It is futile to rely on Egypt: Woe to them that go down to Egypt for help . . . but they look not unto the Holy One of Israel (31:1-3; 30:1-5).
Sennacherib, the ruthless king of Assyria, was marching toward Judah with the intent of conquering it and reducing its people to slavery (II Kin. 18:13; II Chr. 32:1). The danger was very real and imminent. What was King Hezekiah to do? How was Judah to stand against Assyria, the world's most powerful monarchy at that time? If you were to ask Hezekiah's "policymakers," they would all say: "There can be no question about the intent of Assyria and the defeat of the Kingdom of Judah." The "policymakers" would agree that the only way to save Judah from defeat was to obtain the alliance and armies of some powerful nation. This was exactly what the rulers of Judah agreed to do. They entered into an alliance with the king of Egypt for military strength and security instead of praying and asking God to help them. The prophet Isaiah reproved them, saying: Woe to the rebellious children, saith the Lord, that take counsel, but not of Me. . . . For the Egyptians shall help in vain. . . . this is a rebellious people . . . that will not hear the Law of the Lord. . . . thus saith the Lord God, the Holy One of Israel; In returning and rest shall ye be saved; in quietness and in confidence shall be your strength: and ye would not. . . . blessed are all they that wait for Him (Is. 30:1,7,9,15,18).

Fearing an Assyrian attack, King Hezekiah sent his ambassadors to Egypt with a large amount of wealth. They were requesting military aid and desiring to make a treaty with Egypt, a nation that had been a great world power for centuries. From a human point of view, this seemed to be the only possible means of security against Assyria. Egypt had a great military system, including numerous chariots and horses. In addition, Ethiopia was closely associated with Egypt, and the combined armies of these two powerful nations would seem invincible.

When danger threatens, do we immediately look to our friends and professional advisers? Or do we, through daily searching of His Word, discern the principles of God for direction and then, in prayer, trust Him wholeheartedly to enlighten our understanding concerning the specific problem before us?

No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon (Matt. 6:24).

Thought for Today:

Some trust in chariots, and some in horses: but we will remember the Name of the Lord our God (Ps. 20:7).
Christ Revealed:

As the precious (Chief) Corner Stone, a sure foundation (Is. 28:16; Eph. 2:20-21; Matt. 21:42; Acts 4:10-12; Rom. 9:33; I Pet. 2:6-8).
Word Studies:

27:1 piercing swift; 28:21 strange awesome, unusual; 28:22 bands be made strong punishment be made greater; 30:1 cover with a covering live an offering; 30:3 confusion humiliation, your undoing; 30:24 ear blow.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in memory of Iva Ann McElroy (Dr. John Hash's mother) • Government Official: Rep. Mike McIntyre (NC) • 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: Declare the wondrous works of God with thanksgiving (Ps. 26:6-7).
Optional Reading:

James 1

Memory Verse for the Week:

Psalms 34:19

[Judy Harder]

Read Isaiah 32 -- 37

Highlights:

Be wary of nations which can't be trusted, for they shall be destroyed. Hear the threats of God against nations (Is. 33:1,7-9; 34:1-17). The Lord promises victory (33:22; 34:8; 35:4,10; 37:5-7,22-38); just do as Hezekiah did (37:14-20).
Just eight years after he invaded and destroyed the Northern Kingdom, Sennacherib, king of Assyria, attacked Judah. Now it came to pass in the fourteenth year of king Hezekiah, that Sennacherib king of Assyria came up against all the defenced cities of Judah, and took them. . . . Thus saith the king (of Assyria), Let not Hezekiah deceive you . . . Neither let Hezekiah make you trust in the Lord, saying, The Lord will surely deliver us: this city shall not be delivered into the hand of the king of Assyria (Is. 36:1,14-15; II Kin. 18:13-17; II Chr. 32:1-8). It was during this crisis that King Hezekiah expressed his trust in God and confidently told his nation: With us is the Lord our God (32:; the Lord . . . will save us (Is. 33:22); Thus saith the Lord. . . . I will defend this city (37:33-35).

Hezekiah sought to influence and lead his people to trust in God as their only hope of survival against Assyria. When he read the letter which the Assyrian ambassador had brought from Sennacherib, Hezekiah went up into the House of the Lord, and spread it before the Lord. And Hezekiah prayed before the Lord (II Kin. 19:14-15).

The desperate prayer was short but sincere, and God answered this godly man with an amazing victory. In one night, the angel of the Lord destroyed 185,000 soldiers in Sennacherib's army (19:35).

Be careful for (worry about) nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God (Phil. 4:6).

Three promises are implied in the prophecy in Isaiah 32:1-2 that deal with stressful circumstances such as Hezekiah faced. The covert and the hiding place imply the necessity of protection from fierce desert winds and storms. The water is desperately needed to sustain life in a dry place. The shadow of a great rock in a weary land depicts the desert traveler in the heat of day seeking shade from a great rock and, as the day comes to a close, hopeful for rest in a place of security and protection. You can depend on the promises of God; they cannot fail.

Now unto Him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, Unto Him be glory in the Church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen (Eph. 3:20).

The Word of God is quick (living), and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword (Heb. 4:12).

Thought for Today:

Call unto Me, and I will answer thee, and shew thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not (Jer. 33:3).
Christ Revealed:

As the One who, in judgment, wields the sword of the Lord (Is. 34:6). Out of His mouth goeth a sharp sword, that with it He should smite the nations (Rev. 19:15).
Word Studies:

32:2 covert shelter; tempest storm; 32:5 liberal noble; churl deceitful; 32:7 instruments schemes; 32:19 low in a low place completely destroyed; 33:9 hewn down destroyed.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Staff: Clarence Rathbone • 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: Seek the Lord in times of trouble; He will shelter you (Ps. 27:5).
Optional Reading:

James 2

Memory Verse for the Week:

II Timothy 3:1

[Judy Harder]

Read Isaiah 38 -- 42

Highlights:

Sickness, prayer, and healing (Is. 38; remember Ex. 15:26). Hezekiah's poem of praise (Is. 38:9-20). His poor judgment because of pride (chap. 39). Prophecy of the Deliverer and Savior (chap. 40).
Our Lord Jesus fulfilled this Scripture prophecy in Isaiah 42:1-2 when He withdrew Himself from hostile religious leaders who were attempting to destroy Him: Behold My Servant, whom I uphold; Mine Elect, in whom My soul delighteth; I have put My Spirit upon Him: He shall bring forth judgment to the Gentiles. He shall not cry . . . nor cause His voice to be heard in the street (also see Matt. 12:14-19).

The words My Servant in these verses speak of Jesus of Nazareth, the Messiah — the King of kings. Jesus could have rightfully said of Himself but didn't: "Behold the great Creator King of kings." Instead it was said of Him: Who, being in the form of God . . . took upon Him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men (Phil. 2:6-7).

What greater privilege could we have than to be servants in complete obedience to the Creator God — to consider no task too lowly and no sacrifice too great to bring honor to our Lord!

Whosoever of you will be the chiefest, shall be servant of all. For even the Son of Man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give His life a ransom for many (Mark 10:44-45).

Hezekiah lost his golden opportunity to impress the ambassadors of Babylon with his true Source of greatness and strength which were gifts from God. He could have taken them to the Temple and told them how he had spread Sennacherib's letter before the invisible but very real presence of God. Then he could have told them how he had prayed that the strategy of his enemy might be brought to nought, and how in one night God had answered by destroying 185,000 Assyrian soldiers.

He could have told them that, when he became ill and almost died, he turned to God in prayer and God promised him another 15 years of life. The ambassadors of Babylon would have been far more impressed with the power and protection of the unseen hand of his God than they could possibly have been by the mere display of treasures.

Do we fail to tell others what God has accomplished in answer to our prayers? Are opportunities wasted to satisfy our egos as we attempt to impress people with our greatness?

May the Lord help us to join the Apostle Paul in saying: With all boldness, as always, so now also Christ shall be magnified in my body, whether it be by life, or by death. For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain (Phil. 1:20-21).

Thought for Today:

And Hezekiah prayed . . . Now therefore, O Lord our God, save us from his hand, that all the kingdoms of the earth may know that Thou art the Lord (Is. 37:15,20).
Christ Revealed:

As the Creator (Is. 40:28; comp. John 1:1-3); as the Shepherd (Is. 40:11; comp. John 10:11); as the Redeemer (Is. 41:14; comp. Gal. 3:13; I Pet. 1:18-19; Rev. 5:9).
Word Studies:

38:10 residue remainder; 40:2 comfortably kindly and tenderly; 40:12 meted out measured; span spread of the fingers; 42:4 isles Gentiles are mentioned in Is. 42:1, so the isles in 42:4 refer to the isles of the Gentiles (see Gen. 10:5); 42:13 jealousy his fury.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Staff: Beth Carlton • Country: Slovakia (5 million) central Europe • Major languages: Slovak and Hungarian • Religious freedom • 60% Roman Catholic; 8% Protestant; 4% Orthodox • Prayer Suggestion: Ask the Lord to teach you His ways (Ps. 27:11).
Optional Reading:

James 3

Memory Verse for the Week:

II Timothy 3:1

[Judy Harder]

Read Isaiah 43 -- 46

Highlights:

Powerful promises of the Lord's love and protection; prophecy of our Savior's redeeming work and Jerusalem's restoration. Cyrus is introduced. Warning against idols (chap. 46 of Isaiah). Don't miss vs. 13! What a promise!!
Only the Spirit of God could have given Isaiah such amazing details about a man named Cyrus at least 150 years before he was born. Thus saith the Lord . . . I am the Lord . . . that saith to Jerusalem, Thou shalt be inhabited; and to the cities of Judah, Ye shall be built, and I will raise up the decayed places thereof . . . That saith of Cyrus, He is My shepherd, and shall perform all My pleasure (Is. 44:24-28).

When Isaiah foretold that God would will raise up the decayed places thereof, there were no decayed places in Jerusalem. The Temple was still standing; the walls were in perfect condition; and the nation was still enjoying freedom and prosperity. Furthermore, it seemed most unlikely that a world conqueror would release the Jews and then urge them to return to Jerusalem to rebuild their Temple for the God of heaven and even help finance it and restore the Temple vessels (Neh. 1:4; Ezra 1:1-4,7-8). No prophecy seemed more unlikely to be fulfilled. Yet, all these things happened exactly as Isaiah foretold.

Heaven and earth shall pass away, but My words shall not pass away (Matt. 24:35). The city of Babylon was divided into two sections by the River Euphrates. The solid walls surrounding all of Babylon were over 300 feet high and about 80 feet wide — broad enough for four chariots to be driven side by side on the top. Cyrus dug an immense canal north of Babylon and diverted the River Euphrates into this canal. Then he marched his army at night through the unguarded two-leaved (folding) gates across the entrance in the vacant river bed.

Who told Isaiah such minute details and named a man that would rule a kingdom which, at that time did not exist? Who told him the man would conquer a world empire and set free a slave nation that, at the time of the prophecy, was still enjoying its freedom in its own land? Who would have prophesied that in over 150 years the Lord God would dry up thy rivers (Is. 44:27) — that the Euphrates would be diverted from flowing through Babylon? How could Isaiah foresee that the guards of Babylon, who always closed the folding gates at sunset and stood guard throughout the night, would neglect on that particular night to close them (45:1)? Only God, who knows all things that will come to pass, could have told him.

Praise ye the Lord. O give thanks unto the Lord; for He is good: for His mercy endureth for ever (Ps. 106:1).

Thought for Today:

For the Lord is good; His mercy is everlasting; and His Truth endureth to all generations (Ps. 100:5).
Christ Revealed:

As the Redeemer (Is. 43:1; 44:22-24). Through His death on the cross, Christ has redeemed (bought back) all who trust Him as their Savior (I Cor. 6:20; Gal. 4:4-5; Titus 2:13-14; I Pet. 1:18-19).
Word Studies:

43:2 fire oppression; kindle upon consume; 43:13 let it prevent it from happening; 44:9 delectable cherished; 45:1 loose the loins of weaken; two leaved gates double gates; 46:12 stouthearted stubborn-minded.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Lt. Col. & Mrs. Walter Swanson • Country: Slovenia (2 million) in southeastern Europe • Major languages: Slovenian and Serbo-Croatian • Freedom of religion • 81% Roman Catholic; 1% Muslim • Prayer Suggestion: Thank the Lord for hearing your prayers (Ps. 28:6-7).
Optional Reading:

James 4

Memory Verse for the Week:

II Timothy 3:1
 

[Judy Harder]

August 10, 2011     


Bible Pathways
     
Read Isaiah 47 -- 51

Highlights:

Prophecy that Babylon will be destroyed for mistreating Israel (Is. 47:1-15; 49:25-26). The heartbroken Heavenly Father speaks to His unruly children (chap. 48). Warning (48:22)! The Servant is officially commissioned as Savior (49:1-7). Whose hand holds you (49:16; 51:16)? Do things look bad? Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil (Ps. 23:4). Trust God (Is. 51:7-8,11,21-23).
At the time Mary and Joseph were approaching the Temple with Baby Jesus, Simeon was there waiting for the consolation of Israel (Luke 2:25-26) as prophesied by Isaiah: Thus saith the Lord, thy Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel; I am the Lord thy God which teacheth thee to profit (who is teaching you for your profit), which leadeth (guides) thee by the way that thou shouldest go (Is. 48:17). Simeon knew from Isaiah that God would send His Son to bless the Gentiles also: I will also give Thee for a light to the Gentiles, that Thou mayest be My salvation unto the end of the earth. Thus saith the Lord, the Redeemer of Israel, and his Holy One, to Him whom man despiseth, to Him whom the nation abhorreth (rejected by mankind), to a Servant of rulers (49:6-7).

When Simeon saw Mary and Joseph, there was nothing to indicate that the Baby they held was The Prince of Peace (9:6). These two humble peasants were obediently bringing their Child to the Temple to present Him to the Lord . . . to offer a sacrifice according to . . . the Law of the Lord (Luke 2:22-24).

Simeon was equally unpretentious. He was not the high priest; in fact, he was not a priest at all. He was only a devout, godly Jew who was expectantly looking for the coming of the Promised Messiah. Holding the Baby Jesus whose Name means "Jehovah is Salvation," he announced the fulfillment of the prophecy that had been given to Isaiah about 700 years before our Savior's birth: Mine eyes have seen Thy salvation, Which Thou hast prepared before the face of all people; A Light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of Thy people Israel (2:30-32).

How easy it is to miss some of the greatest moments of our lives unless we, like Simeon, stay in touch with the Spirit of God! Simeon was led by the Spirit as he went to the Temple on that day (2:27). And, as a result, he spoke by the Holy Spirit to fulfill prophecy. As Christians, we should be looking forward to the time when we too will see our Messiah. Jesus Christ . . . Him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in His own blood, And hath made us kings and priests unto God and His Father. . . . Behold, He cometh with clouds; and every eye shall see Him (Rev. 1:5-7).

Thought for Today:

And the multitudes . . . cried . . . Hosanna to the Son of David: Blessed is He that cometh in the name of the Lord; Hosanna in the highest (Matt. 21:9).
Christ Revealed:

As the Light to the Gentiles (nations) (Is. 49:6). Jesus said: I am the Light of the world (John 8:12; 9:5; Luke 2:32; Acts 13:47; 26:23).
Word Studies:

47:8 carelessly securely; 47:11 put it off avert or avoid it; 47:15 quarter own region; 48:2 stay; 48:10 refined tested; not with silver not like silver, which requires heat you could not bear; 49:21 removing wandering.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Staff: Barbara Bivens • 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: Sing praises to the Lord (Ps. 30:4).
Optional Reading:

James 5

Memory Verse for the Week:

II Timothy 3:1
 

[Judy Harder]

 
Read Isaiah 52 -- 57

Highlights:

Weep over what your sins cost Jesus (Is. 52:13-15; 53:1-12)! God reigns; Jerusalem redeemed (52:1-12); Israel, the restored wife (chap. 54). Note 54:17 & 55:8-9! Obedience rewarded (chap. 56); repentance and forgiveness (57: 15-21).
Thank God for His Word! Isaiah foretold: He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon Him; and with His stripes we are healed (Is. 53:5). Seek ye the Lord while He may be found, call ye upon Him while He is near (55:6). These prophecies were given about 700 years before the birth of Christ, the Messiah, the Son of God, who alone can atone for sin. Jesus confirmed this, saying: I am The Way, The Truth, and The Life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by Me (John 14:6). Isaiah foretold the suffering that the Messiah would have to endure to redeem a sinner. As we read the first four books of the New Testament, we realize that these prophecies of Isaiah — from naming the place of Christ's birth, to His significant birth, to the specific details of His sacrificial death and resurrection — were all fulfilled.

Christ suffered and died on the cross in our place and conquered death by His resurrection. It was on the cross that He revealed His love and made the supreme sacrifice so each one of us could receive forgiveness for our sins. It was Jesus who said: Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day: And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in His Name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem (Luke 24:46-47).

Love for our Lord inspires us to communicate His gracious message of salvation to a lost and dying world: Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved (Acts 4:12).

Natural death and spiritual death were both intended in the sentence uttered by God to Adam: In the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die (Gen. 2:17).

Since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead. For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive. But every man in his own order: Christ the firstfruits; afterward they that are Christ's at His coming. Then cometh the end, when He shall have delivered up the Kingdom to God, even the Father (I Cor. 15:21-24).

Thought for Today:

Now we believe . . . and know that this (Jesus) is indeed the Christ, the Saviour of the world (John 4:42).
Christ Revealed:

As the One who was rejected by His own people (Is. 53:3; comp. Luke 23:18; John 1:11); remained silent when He was falsely accused (Is. 53:7; Mark 15:3-5); was buried with the rich (Is. 53:9; Matt. 27:57-60); and was crucified with sinners (Is. 53:12; Mark 15:27-28).
Word Studies:

52:1 uncircumcised heathen (those without a covenant with God); 52:10 made bare His holy arm revealed His power; 52:12 rereward rear guard; 52:14 visage appearance, countenance; 57:4 sport yourselves ridicule; 57:17 frowardly rebelliously.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts sponsored by Thursday Morning Prayer • Government Official: Rep. Bill Long (MO) • 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: Confess your sins to the Lord; He is quick to forgive (Ps. 32:5).
Optional Reading:

I Peter 1

Memory Verse for the Week:

II Timothy 3:1
 

[Judy Harder]

 

   
Bible Pathways
     
Read Isaiah 58 -- 63

Highlights:

Our sinful nature separates us from God (Is. 59:2-15). Solution: A Redeemer (59:16-21). The Light of the World (60: 1,19-20). Jesus fulfills the prophecies of chapter 61 (Luke 4:16-29). The love of God, His mercy, pardon, and deliverance are outlined in chapters 62 & 63.
Jesus stood in the synagogue in Nazareth and read these words: The Spirit of the Lord God is upon Me, because the Lord hath anointed Me to preach (the) Good Tidings unto the meek; He hath sent Me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound (Is. 61:1). Then He proclaimed: This day is this Scripture fulfilled in your ears (Luke 4:18-21). Jesus is the Promised Messiah, Son of David, the Savior, the Redeemer of the world. Unto Him the Spirit was given without measure (John 3:34); He is the anointed of God (Is. 61:1).

Our Lord first came as a Servant to bind up the brokenhearted and to set the captive free. And each of us, as His followers, should also preach (the) Good Tidings unto the meek and proclaim liberty to those who are entangled in sin. This ministry for the Lord is one of the highest privileges of the child of God. When we faithfully tell others about Christ and see them trust Him in salvation, our hearts are thrilled to see them grow spiritually.

A Christian cares about other people and is a living demonstration of the love and gracious will of God (Rom. 5:. Furthermore, when the needs of others are made known to us, we have the privilege of bringing these needs before God in prayer and then doing what we can to comfort the brokenhearted.

This message of Good Tidings in all the beauty and grace of its meaning was fulfilled in the Person and completed work of Jesus Christ; but, it also sets forth the principle of true Christian service. Ours is not a ministry dependent upon superior talent and intellect. Let us say, in reverence and humility: "I am but a vessel, an instrument, an agent. I am not the Master; I am but a servant. Lord God, be Thou my inspiration, my strength, and the completeness of my life."

Like captive slaves, we are by nature in bondage to sin — to the flesh — to the world. Christ has come to proclaim liberty — to break the chains of mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual captivity to all who will repent of their sin, be born again, and then follow Him as Lord of their lives. Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage (Gal. 5:1).

Thought for Today:

Jesus saith . . . I am The Way, The Truth, and The Life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by Me (John 14:6).
Christ Revealed:

As the One anointed to preach Good Tidings (Is. 61:1). Jesus read this passage to the rulers of the synagogue (Luke 4:16-22) but stopped without completing the second verse (Is. 61:2), thus showing that He fulfilled the first part. But, the second part, the Day of Judgment, was yet to be fulfilled.
Word Studies:

60:5 see, and flow together become enlightened, and shine forth the Light of God; fear be in awe (be amazed at what God is doing), and then when that has registered, comes the joy; 61:3 appoint empart comfort; 62:4 Hephzibah my delight is in her; Beulah married; 63:15 the sounding of thy bowels the yearning affection of your heart.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Staff: Pam Murton • Government Official: Rep. Connie Mack IV (FL) • Country: South Africa (42.6 million) on the southern tip of the African continent • Major languages: Afrikaans and English • Religious freedom • 76% Christian; 1% Muslim; 1% Hindu; 15% Traditional; .5% Jewish; 6.5% None/Other (Baha'i, Jain, Sikh, Zoroastrian, Buddhist, Confucian) • Prayer Suggestion: Be glad in the Lord and rejoice at all times (Ps. 32:11).
Optional Reading:

I Peter 2

Memory Verse for the Week:

II Timothy 3:1

[Judy Harder]

Read Isaiah 64 -- 66

Highlights:

In these final chapters are prayers for mercy and forgiveness from a God who is silent (Is. 64). Those pleading confess their sin and praise His deeds (64:4-7). God will spare His true servants (65:1-10). The rebirth of His nation and His promise (66:7-9,22).
There is a peace of God, which passeth all understanding (Phil. 4:7) — as a great and mighty river. This peace is the promised inheritance of every Christian. Isaiah foretold how the Messiah would provide this marvelous peace, saying: Thus saith the Lord, Behold, I will extend peace to her like a river, and the glory of the Gentiles like a flowing stream (Is. 66:12; 48:18).

Jesus assured us: Peace I leave with you, My peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled (regardless of circumstances), neither let it be afraid (of the future) (John 14:27).

Our Lord did not promise freedom from suffering, but He did promise His amazing inward peace — even in the midst of great suffering and opposition. Job and Jeremiah are examples of godly men who suffered much. But if we are to enjoy His gift of peace we need to know and follow His biblical qualifications.

The Lord will allow our hearts and faith to be tested by Satan — to suffer, become troubled and afraid. But His Word is always available and quick, and powerful (Heb. 4:12) to enable us to calmly face all troubles and fears. Don't forget it is the source of victory. Since God created us, He did not overlook anything in His Guide for our lives. He knows exactly what we need — physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

It is of little importance that we excel in the wisdom of the world, but it is of utmost importance that we steadfastly read the life-giving, inspired Word of God and follow all the will of God as recorded in it. Furthermore, when we read the Bible from Genesis to Revelation and ask the Holy Spirit, He will illuminate our understanding of life's complex problems. Jesus promised: He (the Holy Spirit) will guide you into all Truth (John 16:13-14).

There is often conflict between self-will and the will of God (Is. 66:7-8). However, through our suffering, God provides an opportunity in which the Christ-life within us can help us win the victory over our old independent nature of self-will and self-sufficiency. But the question is: "Will we surrender our own will and yield to our Father's will?" All who surrender to His Spirit will answer "Yes" and will be obedient. When the time drew near for Jesus to be crucified, He said to His Father: If Thou be willing, remove this cup from Me: nevertheless not My will, but Thine, be done (Luke 22:42).

Thought for Today:

Fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear Him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell (Matt. 10:28).
Christ Revealed:

As the Creator of new heavens and a new earth (Is. 65:17; 66:22; comp. John 1:1-3; II Pet. 3:13). As the One whose glory will be declared among the nations (Is. 66:18-19; Rev. 5:12-13).
Word Studies:

64:3 terrible awesome, revered greatly, greatly to be feared; 64:11 are laid waste have been destroyed; 65:14 howl for vexation of spirit cry out in misery; 66:6 voice sound.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in memory of Henry Rogers • Government Officials: Rep. Tom Marino (PA) and Rep. Peter Visclosky (IN) • Country: South Korea (46.9 million) in northeastern Asia • Major languages: Korean and English • Religious freedom • 48% Christian; 40% Buddhist; 3% Confucian; 9% Shamanism; Chodogyo, Other • Prayer Suggestion: Praise God in prayer and with singing for His Word is pure and His works are done in truth (Ps. 33:2-4).
Optional Reading:

I Peter 3

Memory Verse for the Week:

II Timothy 3:1

[Judy Harder]

August 8 2011

Bible Pathways
     
Read Jeremiah 1 -- 3

Highlights:

God knew Jeremiah long before he was born (Jer. 1:4-5)! Is the Word of God in your mouth (1:9)? God reminds Judah of its blessings (2:1-7); of the people forsaking Him (2:13) and worshiping false gods (2:10-12,26-28). Israel more righteous than Judah (3:6-11); Judah urged to repent (3:14-17); national restoration promised (3:16-18). God speaks (3:22)!
God is the Source of all that nourishes, enriches, and satisfies our nature which depends on Him — the Fountain of Living Waters (Jer. 2:13). Real satisfactions — physical, emotional, and spiritual — are available only from God. This is life eternal, that they might know Thee (John 17:3).

In the desert climate of Palestine, water was the first necessity for human existence. No one would exchange an artesian well with abundant water for a man-made, broken cistern that could hold no water.

But the nation of Judah was even more foolish: My people have changed their glory for that which doth not profit. Be astonished, O ye heavens, at this. . . . For My people have committed two evils; they have forsaken Me the Fountain of Living Waters, and hewed them out cisterns, broken cisterns, that can hold no water (Jer. 2:11-13).

The two evils are the same thing. There is the self-willed departure from God and the self-sufficient life. They have forsaken Me. All sin is a forsaking of God. The dream of a self-sufficient life leads to disappointment and death. Yet, they callously deserted Him for their man-made, lifeless gods which cannot sustain life. What a shocking example of ingratitude! This illustrates the self-sufficient human nature of mankind who refuse to be loyal to God.

The people of Judah were symbolic of those who reject the Bible as the Fountain of Living Water. Many have turned to popular books by men. But compared to the Word of God, they are no more than cisterns, that can hold no water. Many writings of men may be helpful, but they are not equal to or to be a substitute for the Bible as the Source of all Truth.

It was no easy matter for Jeremiah to come boldly forward and threaten the judgment of God against his country. Jeremiah was to speak only what God commanded him. It is our duty to be equally faithful. Truth is not the private property of us in America; it is the rightful heritage of all the world. That is why it is so important to provide Bibles and Bible Pathways to all who request them. In a real sense our lives are a type of our Lord's. Like Noah, Abraham, Sarah, Jacob, Joseph, Moses, and Jeremiah, we are choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season (Heb. 11:7-26).

Thought for Today:

Go ye therefore, and teach all nations . . . to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you (Matt. 28:19-20).
Christ Revealed:

As the Fountain of Living Waters (Jer.2:13). Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto Me, and drink (John 7:37-38; also 4:1-26).
Word Studies:

2:3 offend be held guilty; 2:14 spoiled laid waste, plundered; 2:18 Sihor the Nile River; the river the Euphrates; 2:31 lords independent; 2:33 trimmest . . . thy way to seek love to good (as a show to impress) to get love; 3:2 been lien with acted like a prostitute; 3:9 lightness shameless behavior; 3:10 feignedly deceptively.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Staff: Rita Guerra • Government Official: Rep. Louise Slaughter (NY) • Country: Spain (39.6 million) in southwestern Europe • Major languages: Castilian Spanish and Catalan • Limited religious freedom • 85% Roman Catholicism; 1% Islam; .5% Protestant; .5% Jehovah's Witness; 13% Other (Mormon, Jewish, Secular Humanist) • Prayer Suggestion: Bless the Lord at all times regardless of circumstances (Ps. 34:1).
Optional Reading:

I Peter 4

Memory Verse for the Week:

II Timothy 3:2