Bible Pathways - May 14, 2005

May 14
Read I Chronicles 8 -- 10
In Today's
Descendants of Benjamin; priests and Levites in
Only a small minority of Israelites responded to the proclamation by Cyrus and left the comforts and safety of the new Persian kingdom to return to the rubble of
Now the first inhabitants that dwelled in their possessions in their cities were, the Israelites, the priests, Levites, and the Nethinims (the
Every chilld of God has a place in God's plan and is needed.
Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. . . . But all these works that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing (distributing) to every man severally (individually) as He will and not necessarily as we prefer (I Corinthians 12:4,11). Regardless of the seeming importance or insignificance of our abilities, they are a sacred trust from God. The Lord does not expect the person who is given one talent to fulfill the responsibility of the person who has five talents (see Matthew 25:14-30). But, though our talents may seem to be minimal, each one can do something as we make ourselves available to Him. Paul reminded Titus that many profess that they know God; but in works they deny Him, being . . . disobedient, and to every good work reprobate (worthless) (Titus 1:16).
We are required to be faithful stewards (managers) of our lives and the abilities and opportunities that God has entrusted to us. Whatsoever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not to men (Colossians 3:23).
Christ Revealed:
By
Word Studies:
8:31 Zacher = Zechariah (not the prophet); 8:33 Esh-baal (Ish-bosheth); 9:21 porter = gatekeeper of the entrance way; 9:22 set office = trustworthy position; 9:23 by wards = as guards; 9:28 bring them in and out by tale = count them when they bring them in and take them out; 10:2 followed hard after = closely pursued and overtook; 10:3 went sore = was fierce; 10:4 uncircumcised = those without a covenant with God.
Prayer Needs:
Pray for Government Officials: Sen. Byron Dorgan (ND) and Rep. Alan Mollohan (WV) · Country: Zaire, Democratic Republic of the Congo (38 million) in south-central Africa · Major languages: French and Lingala · Limited religious freedom · 42% Roman Catholic; 28% Protestant; 12% magical practices, ancestor worship, and witchcraft; 1% Muslim · Prayer Suggestion: Continually watch and pray so that you won't yield to temptation in a moment of weakness (Matthew 26:41).
Optional
Memory Verse for the Week: II Timothy 3:16