Bible Pathways 06/21/2003
June 21
Read Job 25 -- 29
In Today's Reading:
Bildad's answer; Job's reproof of Bildad; Job's praise to God; Job's truthfulness; source of wisdom; recalling past wealth
Job was not searching for answers when he asked where to find true wisdom. He wanted his friends to realize that God alone could provide wisdom. He believed that true wisdom was not achieved through human intellect and was not recognized by worldly-minded people (Job 28:12-13,15,20-21).
God is the Author and Revealer of true wisdom. The only reliable source of wisdom is found by reading all of His Word to understand His perfect plan for our lives. This means that it is important to read through every book of the Bible, from Genesis to Revelation, with a sincere desire to apply its instruction to our own lives. We can be sure that Satan will attempt to distract us from this pursuit and to cause us to make decisions based on circumstances or contemporary standards.
The worldly-minded find fault with God, just as the Israelites did as they journeyed through the wilderness. They complained about their circumstances instead of acknowledging and submitting to God and His all-sufficient care. We too will make unwise decisions when we allow ourselves to become frustrated. To illustrate, we may say to someone: "You make me angry." But the fact is, we choose to be angry. Or we may say: "I am depressed today." However, the sad truth is that we have refused to see God in the circumstances He has allowed to take place in our lives. We can be sure that our Lord is far more concerned with our best interests than even we are (I Peter 4:19). We always have the choice to move above and beyond anger and disappointments by permitting the indwelling Christ to rule our lives. Submission to Christ is the key to experiencing the peace of God and having understanding (Philippians 4:6-7; Psalm 119:130).
Christ Revealed:
Through Job's compassion for others (Job 29:15-17,21-25). Jesus was moved to compassion when He saw great crowds in need of healing and feeding (Matthew 14:14; 15:30-39).
Word Studies:
27:22 fain flee = desires to flee; 28:1 a vein = a mine; fine = refine; 29:14 diadem = turban or headdress.
Prayer Needs:
Pray for Youth With A Mission/New Zealand and President Frank Naea · Government Officials: Gov. Jim Douglas (VT), Rep. Dan Burton (IN), and Rep. Dana Rohrabacher (CA) · Country: Greece (11 million) in southeastern Europe · Major languages: Greek and English · Government restrictions on witnessing to others about Christ · 97% Greek Orthodox (2% churchgoers); 1% Muslim; .4% Roman Catholic; .1% Protestant · Prayer Suggestion: Ask for your daily needs (Luke 11:3).
Optional Reading: Ephesians 4
Memory Verse for the Week: II Timothy 3:17
