Bible Pathways - Mar. 10, 2008
March 10
Highlights In Today's Reading:
Don't miss this powerful chapter that has been used by the Holy Spirit to bring many to Christ as their Savior and Lord. It outlines the destruction of those who ignore Him. Discover why! As we follow the Lord He has promised to make us the head, and not the tail (28:13).
The pathway of conquest was linked with Israel's obedience to God's Word. Why? Just continue reading. It's very important for us. As God possessed Israel, they could, in turn, possess Canaan. God desired Israel to recognize the direct relation between conduct and destiny in all relationships of life. Thou shalt not seek their peace nor their prosperity all thy days for ever (23:6).
The Lord shall establish thee an holy people unto Himself . . . if thou shalt keep the Commandments of the Lord thy God, and walk in His ways. . . . if thou wilt not . . . all these curses shall come upon thee, and overtake thee (28:9,15). They were to see that submission to God and enjoyment of life were bound together as an inflexible spiritual principle. On the other hand, the inevitable consequence of sin would reduce them to failure, misery, and final ruin. This is the basic guide for all of us.
If Israel would not obey God, they would eventually be forced to serve their enemies. Because thou servedst not the Lord . . . Therefore shalt thou serve thine enemies . . . and He shall put a yoke of iron upon thy neck (28:47-48).
Because of indifference or ignorance many Christians, like the Israelites, have never realized the importance of obedience in obtaining God's protection and provision.
The Law revealed what was right to do. But, the Law could not provide us the power to do the right thing. However, God sent His own Son that the righteousness of the Law might be fulfilled in us (Romans 8:3-4). Added to that, every Christian has the indwelling Spirit of Truth . . . He will guide you into all truth (John 16:13).
Therefore, begin at once to read what His Word says; at the same time give up anything that is not according to the will of God. God has brought you to Himself, and now, through reading all of the Bible, He speaks to you all the thoughts of His heart. The Word of God is quick (living and active), and powerful (Hebrews 4:12). As you read, it becomes your spiritual food providing the strength to do what is best for your life. Desire the sincere milk of the Word, that you may grow thereby (I Peter 2:1-2).
He that hath My Commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth Me: and he that loveth Me shall be loved of My Father, and I will love him (John 14:21).
Thought for Today:
To not obey God's Word is sin and sin always separates us from God and His blessings. What agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God (II Corinthians 6:16).
Christ Portrayed:
As the One from whom our blessings come (Deuteronomy 28:1-2). Blessed be . . . God . . . who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings . . . in Christ (Eph. 1:3).
Word Studies:
28:5 store =b> kneading trough or bread bin; 28:20 vexation =b> frustrations, distresses; 28:26 fray =b> frighten; 28:27 botch =b> boils or sores; emerods =b> tumors; 28:53 fruit =b> offspring; straitness =b> distressing confinement; 28:59 plagues wonderful =b> extraordinary afflictions.
Prayer Needs:
Pray for The Arabic, English, and Spanish International Shortwave Radio Broadcasts in honor of Lee and Tammy Rutherford's anniversary • Staff: Rita Guerra • Country: Gabon (1 million) in west-central Africa • Major language: French • Religious freedom • 66% Roman Catholic; 30% Protestant; 3% animism and ancestor worship • Prayer Suggestion: Ask for your daily needs (Matthew 6:11).
Optional Reading: John 1
Memory Verse for the Week: I Peter 1:15
