Highlights In Today's Reading:
We are reminded of our sinfulness but then we hear of the perfection of God. Note how those that wait upon the Lord . . . shall inherit the earth (37:9). Every day is precious and fleeting; let us be thankful and not waste much of our lives on mere earthly pleasures and material things (39:1-6).
The children of God are often influenced by good people to misdirect their time from spiritual interests to "good" but secular things. The mouth of the righteous speaketh wisdom (conversation is continually wholesome and uplifting), and his tongue talketh of judgment (justice, eternal value). The Law of his God is in his heart (because God rules his heart); none of his steps shall slide (will not be involved in conversation or conduct that is not wholesome) (37:30-31).
A sincere believer is often tempted by Satan to fear that his faith is too weak, that his desire is not upright or as earnest as it should be, or that his surrender is not complete. When we desire spiritual maturity two things are good to remember: Though he (we) fall (fail to say or do what would glorify the Lord), he (we) shall not be utterly cast down: for the Lord upholdeth him (us) with His hand (37:24).
We should also consider that when we received Christ as our Savior and Lord, we were born again (John 3:3,5). As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God . . . which were born . . . of God (1:12-13).But, then, as babes we need to desire the sincere (pure) milk of the Word, that ye may grow thereby (I Pet. 2:1-2).
It is the loving desire of God to gain first place in the hearts of all His children. He imparts His love and power to all who are willing to yield themselves to Him. As we yield to God, we become conformed to the image of His Son (Rom. 8:29). We then discover great joy in loving the things that He loves.
Time given in reading, praying, planning, and doing for Christ is indispensable for spiritual growth and prepares us in humility to depend entirely upon the Lord Himself. Suspension of progress, obstacles, and setbacks remind us of our need every day to be dependent upon His great wisdom provided in His Word.
Our Heavenly Father has a greater desire to bless us than our desire to be changed. God, in mercy and long-suffering (II Pet. 3:9), waits until we yield to His ways.
In every true prayer, there are two wills that are involved — one is ours which is limited in knowing what is best; the other is the Heavenly Father's with His perfect love and eternal wisdom. When the desires of God become our desires, our surrender to His will becomes the secret of effective praying and waiting upon God.
Let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing (James 1:4).
Thought for Today:
Lead me in Thy truth, and teach me: for Thou art the God of my salvation; on thee do I wait all the day (Ps. 25:5).
Christ Revealed:
As the Fountain of Life and the Light (Ps. 36:9). In Him was Life; and the Life was the Light of men. . . . That was the True Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world (John 1:4-9; compare 4:10,14; 8:12; 9:5; Rev. 22:1).
Word Studies:
36:7 put their trust under the shadow of Thy wings = rely on the strength of Thy protection; 38:2 Thy hand presseth me sore = Your punishment presses down on me; 38:8 roared = groaned with anguish; 38:11 sore = afflictions.
Prayer Needs:
Pray for our Military worldwide • Arabic International Shortwave Broadcasts for the month of July sponsored by Mary Hoffmeyer • English International Shortwave Broadcasts sponsored by Mrs. Catherine M. Parks • Staff: Dr. John A. Hash • Country: Somalia (7 million) on the Horn of Africa • Major languages: Somali and Arabic • Islam is officially favored and all other religions are opposed • 99.8% Muslim; .1% Christian • Prayer Suggestion: Rejoice that Jesus' blood has cleansed you from sin (I John 1:7,9).
Optional Reading: Colossians 4
NOTE: Bible Pathway covers the Old Testament with devotional and commentary insights over a nine-month period, January through September. Each day during these months, an optional reading of one chapter a day from the New Testament will also be listed. The October, November, and December issues will provide a daily commentary on the New Testament readings. Thus, the reader goes through the New Testament twice each year using the Bible Pathway plan.
Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 7:20