Bible Pathways 06/27/2003
June 27
Read Psalms 10 -- 17
In Today's Reading:
Judgment upon the wicked; David's desire for justice; those who shall dwell with God; prayer for protection
David asked a question that all of us need to consider when he asked the Lord who qualifies to worship Him. The Holy Spirit provided the answer. Among other things, everyone who obeys the Lord, doing what is right, as well as speaking what is right, qualifies (Psalm 15:2). This can only take place after one becomes a child of God through faith in Jesus Christ. Even a religious leader like Nicodemus first had to be born of the water and of the Spirit or he could not enter the Kingdom of God (John 3:5). The ability to speak the truth comes from knowing God's Word.
The Book of Psalms foretells the resurrection of Christ, and it also offers assurance that all who believe in Him will rise to share in His resurrection and live eternally (Psalm 16:8-10; compare I Thessalonians 4:16-17). After three days, He physically arose, triumphant over death (Psalm 16:10). Forty days after His resurrection, Jesus Christ ascended heavenward to take His place at the right hand of the Father as had been prophesied. In this present life we feel His presence, but soon we will be with Him (16:11).
On the Day of Pentecost, Peter quoted from this psalm to assure about three thousand new believers that Jesus was the Christ of Whom David had prophesied (Acts 2:1,25-28,31,41).
The risen Christ is the Good News of the Gospel upon which our faith is based (I Corinthians 15:22).
Like David, let us rejoice that we are always aware of the Lord's presence to protect, provide, and perfect our lives. This is good news to rejoice about regardless of our circumstances (Psalm 16:8-9).
Christ Revealed:
In the prophecy that God would not allow His Holy One to see decay (Psalm 16:10). This foretells of the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ (Acts 2:25-27; 13:35-39). When Jesus spoke the Revelation to John, He declared He had been dead but now is alive and that He has the keys of death and hell in His possession (Revelation 1:18).
Word Studies:
10:5 puffeth = makes light; 10:13 contemn = defy; despise; 11:3 foundations = principles of society based on the Word of God.
Prayer Needs:
Pray for Pastor S.I. Ombima, Swahili translator in Kenya · BPM Staff: Ken Sharp · Government Officials: Rep. Mike Honda (CA), Rep. Bill Luther (MN), Rep. Jim Nussle (IA), Rep. Doug Ose (CA), and Rep. David Scott (GA) · Country: Guyana (705,000) on the northeastern coast of South America · Major languages: English and Amerindian dialects · The government is becoming increasingly Marxist, radical, and atheistic · 36% Hindu; 28% Protestant; 10% Roman Catholic; 9% Muslim · Prayer Suggestion: Ask that God's will be done in your life (Luke 22:42).
Optional Reading: Philippians 4
Memory Verse for the Week: John 8:31-32
