Bible Pathways - Aug. 31, 2009
Read Lamentations 3
Highlights In Today's Reading:
The compassion of God never fails (3:23). By faith we seek Him (3:25-26); He always hears (3:55-57)! He's our Inheritance (3:24); Lawyer (3:58); and Judge (3:59); ever the same (5:19). In worship, discipline is needed (3:27). Why did this happen (4:13)? The anger of God is always moved by love (4:11); His unfailing love sets us free (5:21).
The amazing God who is perfect Love and perfect Wisdom must bring upon a nation perfect judgment that brings punishment upon the evildoer and blessing upon all who repent and turn to Him. Whom the Lord loveth He chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom He receiveth (Heb. 12:6). As we read His Word we recognize how suffering opens our eyes to the true values of life and dispels many a deceitful dream.
The Israelites of Judah lost absolutely everything in life that was precious to them. Then, with an ever-deepening sense of loss, they were dragged away by Nebuchadnezzar to serve as slaves to the heathen, Gentile conquerer.
Theirs was the only kingdom in which God placed His Name and His Temple. And they possessed the greatest treasure on earth — the Word of God, the true source of all wisdom and the true answer to all our moral, physical, and spiritual needs.
The Israelites were once blessed of God with wealth and prestige above all nations. Yet, as time passed they ignored the Lord and His Word as if they deserved all their blessings. They looked for help from every other source but their Creator. Oh! how easy it is to develop a sense of self-sufficiency.
Surely, it is a great comfort for all of us during our difficult times to recall the unceasing mercies and love of God. A brighter day is mentioned at least seven times in chapter 3. This central chapter reveals the true faith of the prophet. (1) It is of the Lord's mercies that we are not consumed . . . His compassions fail not (3:22); (2) The Lord is my portion . . . therefore will I hope in Him (3:24); (3) Hope and quietly wait for the salvation of the Lord (3:26); (4) Though He cause grief, yet will He have compassion according to the multitude of His mercies (3:32); (5) I called upon Thee: Thou saidst, Fear not (3:57); (6) Thou hast pleaded the causes of my soul (3:58); (7) Thou hast redeemed my life (3:58).
Let us lift up our heart with our hands unto God in the heavens (3:41).
Thought for Today:
Be glad in the Lord, and rejoice, ye righteous; and shout for joy, all ye that are upright in heart (Ps. 32:11).
Christ Revealed:
As the merciful Savior (Lam. 3:22). Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life (Jude 1:21).
Word Studies:
3:5 builded against = besieged; 3:9 inclosed = blocked; 3:14 a derision = a laughingstock; 3:15 wormwood = bitterness; 3:29 putteth his mouth in the dust = speaks humbly; 4:10 sodden = soiled.
Prayer Needs:
Pray for Radio Sri Lanka Shortwave Broadcasts sponsored by Richard W. Higginbotham • English International Radio Broadcasts sponsored by Dr. John A. Hash • Country: Bolivia (8 million) in South America • Major languages: Spanish and Quechua • Religious freedom • 92% Roman Catholic; 3% Protestant; 3% Baha'i • Prayer Suggestion: Pray to the Lord with sincere lips (Ps. 17:1).
Optional Reading: Revelation 5
Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 11:28
