Bible Pathway - Aug. 13, 2011
Read Isaiah 64
Highlights:
In these final chapters are prayers for mercy and forgiveness from a God who is silent (Is. 64). Those pleading confess their sin and praise His deeds (64:4-7). God will spare His true servants (65:1-10). The rebirth of His nation and His promise (66:7-9,22).
There is a peace of God, which passeth all understanding (Phil. 4:7) — as a great and mighty river. This peace is the promised inheritance of every Christian. Isaiah foretold how the Messiah would provide this marvelous peace, saying: Thus saith the Lord, Behold, I will extend peace to her like a river, and the glory of the Gentiles like a flowing stream (Is. 66:12; 48:18).
Jesus assured us: Peace I leave with you, My peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled (regardless of circumstances), neither let it be afraid (of the future) (John 14:27).
Our Lord did not promise freedom from suffering, but He did promise His amazing inward peace — even in the midst of great suffering and opposition. Job and Jeremiah are examples of godly men who suffered much. But if we are to enjoy His gift of peace we need to know and follow His biblical qualifications.
The Lord will allow our hearts and faith to be tested by Satan — to suffer, become troubled and afraid. But His Word is always available and quick, and powerful (Heb. 4:12) to enable us to calmly face all troubles and fears. Don't forget it is the source of victory. Since God created us, He did not overlook anything in His Guide for our lives. He knows exactly what we need — physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
It is of little importance that we excel in the wisdom of the world, but it is of utmost importance that we steadfastly read the life-giving, inspired Word of God and follow all the will of God as recorded in it. Furthermore, when we read the Bible from Genesis to Revelation and ask the Holy Spirit, He will illuminate our understanding of life's complex problems. Jesus promised: He (the Holy Spirit) will guide you into all Truth (John 16:13-14).
There is often conflict between self-will and the will of God (Is. 66:7-8). However, through our suffering, God provides an opportunity in which the Christ-life within us can help us win the victory over our old independent nature of self-will and self-sufficiency. But the question is: "Will we surrender our own will and yield to our Father's will?" All who surrender to His Spirit will answer "Yes" and will be obedient. When the time drew near for Jesus to be crucified, He said to His Father: If Thou be willing, remove this cup from Me: nevertheless not My will, but Thine, be done (Luke 22:42).
Thought for Today:
Fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear Him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell (Matt. 10:28).
Christ Revealed:
As the Creator of new heavens and a new earth (Is. 65:17; 66:22; comp. John 1:1-3; II Pet. 3:13). As the One whose glory will be declared among the nations (Is. 66:18-19; Rev. 5:12-13).
Word Studies:
64:3 terrible awesome, revered greatly, greatly to be feared; 64:11 are laid waste have been destroyed; 65:14 howl for vexation of spirit cry out in misery; 66:6 voice sound.
Prayer Needs:
Pray for International Broadcasts in memory of Henry Rogers • Government Officials: Rep. Tom Marino (PA) and Rep. Peter Visclosky (IN) • Country: South Korea (46.9 million) in northeastern Asia • Major languages: Korean and English • Religious freedom • 48% Christian; 40% Buddhist; 3% Confucian; 9% Shamanism; Chodogyo, Other • Prayer Suggestion: Praise God in prayer and with singing for His Word is pure and His works are done in truth (Ps. 33:2-4).
Optional Reading:
Memory Verse for the Week:
2 Timothy 3:1
