Bible Pathways - Mar. 3, 2008
March 3
Highlights In Today's Reading:
It was of utmost importance that the Ten Commandments be taught to the new generation. The old enemy Satan desperately attempts to remove them from sight today. But consider that this was about 3000 years ago. So they seem to have real staying power. God didn't bring Israel out to leave them wandering in the wilderness (6:23)!
When the Lord thy God shall . . . give thee great and goodly cities, which thou buildedst not . . . beware lest thou forget the Lord (6:10-12). The bitter humiliation of Egyptian slavery, the miraculous release from Pharaoh, the long wanderings in the wilderness, and the marvelous victories over kings and countries were all designed to develop their loyalty and love for God as well as to strengthen their faith and obedience to His Word. Israel was chosen to let the world see how blessed anyone would be if they remained faithful to the One True God.Nevertheless, Moses anticipated the dangers that prosperity would bring once they inherited the promised land. Israel would enjoy the blessings of freedom and wealth and would be tempted to gratify their worldly desires and ignore God.
The nation's distinguishing quality was not in themselves or in their abilities but in their position as representatives of the One True God. Although they did not realize it, it was a tragic period in the history of Israel when they feared the Lord, and served their own gods (II Kings 17:33).
Prosperity is deceptive, for we find it easy to forget our dependence upon God and, in pride, assume ourselves to be self-sufficient.
Our depraved nature craves to be praised, to be considered important, and to be served by others. It stings our ego when we are slighted and someone else receives the recognition and honor we thought we deserved. The Lord, in His loving concern, permits others to receive attention and preference to expose us to our self-centered ego.
The Father's will sometimes leads His children to humble submission through disappointing reverses. In such times, our submission to His control turns trials into opportunities to glorify the Lord. It also protects us from pride when we are enjoying popularity or prosperity. We can better endure suffering or sorrow when we acknowledge our insignificance and recognize our Heavenly Father as the source of every good gift (James 1:17). You are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar (special) people; that ye should shew forth the praises of Him who hath called you out of darkness into His marvellous light (I Peter 2:9).
Thought for Today:
The lust for material gain will rob us of God's blessings both here and in eternity. Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled (Matthew 5:6).
Christ Revealed:
Through the land flowing with milk and honey (Deuteronomy 6:3). This pictures Christ who provides for our needs. Seek . . . first the Kingdom of God, and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you (Matt. 6:33).
Word Studies:
5:17 kill =b> murder; 6:22 sore =b> ominous, horrifying; 7:2 smite them =b> defeat them; 7:13 fruit of thy womb =b> children; kine =b> cattle; 7:25 graven images =b> carved idols.
Prayer Needs:
Pray for The English International Shortwave Radio Broadcasts sponsored by Helen Mae Kegler • Staff: Dr. John A. Hash • Government Official: Rep. Jim Marshall (GA) • Country: Eritrea (4 million) in eastern Africa • Major languages: English and Tigrinya • Religious freedom • 51% Muslim; 40% Eritrean Orthodox; 4% Catholic; 1.5% Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: Can you say you are ready for the Lord's coming (Malachi 3:2)?
Optional Reading: Luke 18
Memory Verse for the Week: I Peter 1:14
