Bible Pathway - June 29, 2010
Highlights:
The Lord is my Shepherd (He never fails to provide) (chap. 23). The earth is the Lord's (He owns it all). . . . He is King of Glory (chap. 24). The meek He . . . teach His way (25:9). David's patience and faith (27:14): God expects us to pray (chap. 28); the mighty power of God is available (chap. 29). Praise to Him (chap. 30).
David, the old shepherd-king knew from years of experience that he was like a sheep that needed to be led to the best for his life. He was inspired by the Holy Spirit to write: The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want (lack anything). . . . He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for His Name's sake (for our best interest) . . . I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever (in fellowship with Him forever) (Ps. 23:1-6).
Left alone, the sheep could easily become separated from the flock and lose their way. Of all domesticated animals, sheep are the most defenseless. By nature, like David, we are all sheep. But we may become so caught up in our own affairs that we lose sight of the Good Shepherd and find ourselves separated from Him (John 10:11,14).
The humble recognize the Good Shepherd who died for the Church. This is one of the key reasons that the Church is subject unto Christ (Eph. 5:24). The Church is not a building nor a denomination; it is composed of born-again believers. Let us hold fast the profession of our faith . . . Not forsaking the assembling our ourselves together . . . (or be faced with) a certain fearful looking for of judgment and fiery indignation (Heb. 10:23-27). We are comforted and encouraged knowing that Thou art with me (Ps. 23:4). The Lord works through people in the Church to encourage us. He is the Head and each of us (no exception) represents a function in the body. Some may think they are an independent "know-it-all," but the Holy Spirit often moves through true believers in the Church, providing advice (that we need). No teacher or pastor is "above this basic principle."
Even Thy rod and Thy staff they comfort me (23:4). We know that whom the Lord loveth He chasteneth (all true disciplines) regardless of who He chooses to administer the rod (Heb. 12:6).
The utmost desire of every one of God's sheep should daily be bringing into captivity every thought (of independence) to the obedience of Christ (II Cor. 10:5). God will guide and provide for every need that will better prepare us for eternity with Him.
Thought for Today:
Pray each day: Lord, lead me (to be faithful) . . . for His Name's sake (Ps. 23:3).
Christ Revealed:
As our Shepherd (Ps. 23). Christ called Himself the Good Shepherd and vowed to lay down His life for the sheep (John 10:11).
Word Studies:
26:1 slide =waver, fall; 26:2 reins =desires and thoughts; 26:4 dissemblers =pretenders, deceitful ones; 28:2 holy oracle =mercy Seat in the Holy of Holies ; 28:3 mischief =evil.
Prayer Needs:
Pray for Staff: Benjamin Wallace • Government Officials: Rep. Virginia Foxx (NC), Rep. Collin Peterson (MN), and Rep. Harry Teague (NM) • Country: Papua New Guinea (5 million) in the southwestern Pacific • Major languages: 715 indigenous languages • Religious freedom • 64% Protestant; 33% Roman Catholic; 2% ancestor worship, belief in spirits, and witchcraft • Prayer Suggestion: Intercede for others (Ex. 32:31-32).
Optional Reading: Philippians 2
Memory Verse for the Week: 2 Corinthians 4:7
