December 21-23

Your word I have treasured
in my heart,
that I may not sin against You.
Psalm 119:11

Our journey before our Christmas Season break ends with a most amazing trail. I am sure that if we took time to investigate every turn and sight visible from this lofty course, we could spend a lifetime on its path. Let me leave you with a trail map and you can take your time during the holidays to do some exploration on you own.

The pathway of Psalm 119 is broken down into twenty-two divisions with each division consecutively corresponding to one of the twenty-letters of the Hebrew alpha-bet. Obviously, this pathway is designed to express the A to Z of something! Eight verses make up each division. Now there’s a significant number for you! Not only does each division start with the consecutive letter of the alpha-bet, each of the eight verses in that division also starts with that same letter. This is more than just clever; it is Divine design.

As I walk through this intriguing Psalm, I see the journey of a man’s life, from cradle to grave. The first section, Aleph, begins his life’s trek. From the very beginning of life, we are made aware that the only path to happiness and blessing is to walk in God’s ways. In the second section, Beth, we see a young man, perhaps a boy of about 12 or 13, struggling with keeping his way pure. As the young man grows, life becomes more complex; longings, desires, successes and failures are all brought to God. By the time you get to Qoph, you hear the words of one who has walked in God’s path for many years. The weariness of life has set in and the man cries out to God to revive him. When we get to the division of Shin, we hear the words of a man who has walked steadfast throughout his life and looks to the future with the hope of God’s salvation. Tav gives us a glimpse of a man surveying his life and looking to God to reward him with the blessing of praising Him in His presence.

One thing remains consistent through each division - God’s Word is the only answer and direction we need for every phase and situation of our lives!!!

A while ago, I became intrigued by the design of Psalm 119 and began to do some study of the wisdom and mystery of the Hebrew alphabet. It is said by rabbis and Jewish Hebrew scholars that, “The alphabet – if correctly understood – is a primer for life. Ethical conduct, religious guidance, philosophical insights, all are nestled in the curls, crowns, and combinations of the Hebrew letters.” I also became fascinated by the fact that each of the eight verses of each division begins with the same letter. I began to wonder if there wasn’t a message in those eight words. Just for interest sake, I would like to give you the meaning of each of the first word of the seven verses of the first section, Aleph. But rather than give them to you as definitions, I am going to give them to you as a sentence!

To be desirously envied! To be desirously envied indeed are you!
Oh that at that moment I will thank You.

Verse eight has three statements that begin with the letter aleph, and they read:

The statues I will keep! Do not forsake me!

I am convinced that the combination of these first words is not a coincidence. Their collective message is an overview of the theme of the Aleph section. The second section, Beth, reveals a similar pattern and progression in thought. Once again, here are the first words of each verse in consecutive order.

With what? With my whole heart!
With my heart, blessed are You.
With my lips!
With Your way!
With Your precepts!
With your statutes!

Yes, I am thoroughly convinced that you could walk a lifetime in Psalm 119 and never exhaust its mysteries. I encourage you to take some time to ponder its messages, as well as its main theme. May we go into this next year knowing that God’s words which are spoken out of His love for us, are there to guide us no matter where we are in life. May we find comfort and rest in hiding its treasures in our heart so that we may follow His ways and embrace hope for eternity!

December 7-18, 2009

Will someone please tell me how I got a week behind. Sorry for the delay - again!!! Thank you for bearing with me. I'll try to do better!!! Since last week and this week are both walking us through the Psalms, I am combining the two together. If your Christmas season is as busy as mine, you probably won't even notice that I did! Love and blessings!!!

He will call upon Me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble; I will rescue him, and honor him. With long life I will satisfy him, and let him behold My salvation.
Psalm 91:15-16




This week we continue to walk with Hezekiah as we hear the Psalms he collected to guide him and encourage him on his journey. These ancient words are timeless. The situations faced in Hezekiah’s day, or David’s for that matter, continue to be repeated in each generation. If there is one thing we can learn from it all, it’s that human nature never changes! The pendulum of the Psalms swings from overwhelming joy and victory to unbearable sorrow and defeat. Where does one even begin to categorize the messages of the Psalms!!! But I believe there are some common threads that are constant for every generation.

1. God made us and He has the right to rule us!
2. If we stray from His ways, there will be consequences!!
3. If we live our lives trusting Him in every situation, we will walk in peace no matter what is going on around us!!!
4. God has promised victory in the end!!!!
5. God is worthy of praise no matter what is happening in our lives!!!!!

Is it any wonder that Hezekiah was so diligent to gather strength from these songs? No matter what he faced, he could either find the counsel, hope or insight that he needed. As you walk with Hezekiah, be sure to identify the words that speak to your life today. You may want to take extra time to look into the Psalms that God speaks directly to you. Just as with David, sometimes their message seems quite easy to understand, while at other times, their words are shrouded in mystery. Some of the thoughts God whispered to David were meant for his time, while others were prophetic and spoke of a time to come. God will still speak to us in that fashion today.

Let me give you a personal example. A number of years ago, I was speaking in the northern part of Michigan. Before I left, the pastor asked if he could pray with us before we began our five-hour trek home. He told me that God had given him a word for me. He went on to say that he hoped it meant something to me, because he really didn’t know why God had given it, but he felt there was something very specific and significant in its content. The verses were found in Psalm 91:11-12

For He will give His angels charge concerning you, to guard you in all your ways. They will bear you up in their hands, lest you strike your foot against a stone.

My spirit identified with the message, but I also had no real insight to their “deeper” meaning. As my friend who had accompanied me on this trip and I were heading home, there was a real sense of God’s presence around us. We both enjoyed basking in His peace and comfort. It wasn’t until we were just a few miles from my house and took the exit off the Interstate that we understood the words God had given. While we were on the exit ramp, there was a horrible noise that came from under the suburban and the vehicle seemed to have difficulty moving forward. Pulling off to the side of the road, I got out to see if the transmission had fallen on the ground! We called our husbands to come and rescue us. They hitched the car to the back of my friend’s suburban and headed towards home. They had only gone a short distance when the front tire separated from the axel and went rolling down the road. When our husbands investigated what had happened, they found that every lug nut holding the tire on had been completely sheared off!!! We had just driven a couple of hundred miles with some mighty powerful angels bearing us up, lest we strike our foot against a stone!

My encouragement to you is that, as you are reading, if God speaks something to you personally, write it down, date it in your Bible, highlight it in florescent yellow, or write it in your journal. Then watch God bring the fulfillment of His personal word to you. And when all is said and done, you will be able to easily do what is so often contained in the Psalms: You will be able to praise the Lord!!!

November 30 – December 4, 2009

This is a bit late. I had it ready before I left for Israel, but didn't have it posted so that it could be there in time. Please forgive the delay. Now I just have to get the one up for this current week. Thank you so much for your patience and understanding.

They assembled their brothers, consecrated themselves, and went in to cleanse the house of the Lord, according to the commandment of the king by the words of the Lord.
(II Chronicles 29:15)




Put on you Sunday best and let’s get ready for a truly special occasion!!! Have you ever noticed that preparations for special events take much longer than the events themselves? We don’t see this any clearer than Hezekiah’s preparation to rededicate the Temple and the reestablishment of its services. The king set everything in its proper order, being careful to follow the instructions of Moses, David, Gad, David’s seer, and Nathan the prophet.

Have you noticed that when Israel diligently endeavored to repent and get on the right track, one of the first things to be reinstated was Passover? This was not just any mundane holiday, it was the covenant memorial meal God instituted to remind them of His preeminence in their lives and in the nation. They would not be where they were had God not chosen them and delivered them and brought them into the land. These were all His doings! God had said that this covenant memorial was to mark the beginning of days for them. How apropos that this should be the first national celebration recognized after the rededication of the Temple.

King Hezekiah understood that this covenant memorial was not just intended for the kingdom of Judah, but for all Israel and sent the invitation throughout the northern, as well as the southern kingdom.

I must admit that my heart really goes out to the messengers who had to carry the invitation. No matter how good the message, there are those unbelievers who prefer to hold on to their old ways and would rather ridicule the messengers than to follow God’s ways. Things haven’t changed!!! Thank God for people who hold on to God’s truths in the dark places, and who respond to His bidding, even when it’s not popular.

You may remember that God had ordered the king to copy the Law and the Word daily. It is obvious that Hezekiah took this seriously. The words of David and Solomon held a solemn place in his heart and he collected them as a constant reminder of God’s instructions. As we begin through his collection, we can see why these Proverbs and Psalms had such an impact on him. You may get a glimpse of Hezekiah’s heart, if you read them through his eyes.

On Thursday we are confronted with a proverb that goes against current popular teachings.

He who turns away his ear from listening to the Law, even his prayer is an abomination. (Proverbs 29:9)

How many times do we hear the ungodly eulogized or glorified merely because they said a prayer or used God’s name? Many will teach that God hears every prayer and answers each one? That teaching totally contradicts the words of Proverbs 29:9. God listens to the prayers of the obedient and the one who cries out in true repentance! Those who turn their backs and refuse to walk in His ways, yet say flowery prayers to make themselves feel better do not impress Him.

On Friday we cover some familiar territory. Who hasn’t heard a Mother’s Day message preached using Proverbs 31:10-31 as the text. These verses take on greater significance if we see them written in the Hebrew language. Each verse begins with a consecutive letter of the Hebrew alphabet starting with the first and ending with the last. This amazing passage is truly the “A” to “Z” of womanhood and God’s model of a Bride. To understand this from a spiritual perspective is to get a glimpse of the heart of Christ and His desire for a wife!

So much to see! So much to learn! Take your time and explore the passages. Enjoy the journey!!!

November 23-25

What more was there to do for My vineyard that I have not done in it? Why, when I expected it to produce good grapes did it produce worthless ones? (Isaiah 5:4)




As we continue to survey the land with Isaiah, we continue to be dismayed at the sight before our eyes. The people have learned to trust everything and everyone BUT God. God’s promise to take away everything they trust in leaves no stone unturned. He will take away their daily necessities such as bread and water. Their military strength will fail. Judges and prophets, those who were supposed to give judgment naturally and spiritually, will prove false. Diviners who they trusted to tell their future and elders who they relied on to discern the past will have no answers. Neither the delegated authority of the captains, nor those who have earned honor for their deeds will be able to be trusted. The counselors who were once able to present plans, and the expert artisans who had the wisdom to bring plans into reality no longer have the wherewithal to formulate or initiate the plans to save the people. No longer are the skillful enchanters able to charm, manipulate and seduce the minds of men and dupe them to do their bidding. Instead, immature, impulsive, and unpredictable leaders will rule them.

Our trip through God’s vineyard is a sad sight to see. God planted choice vines, placed them in the best soil, watered, fertilized and pruned, but the finished product was not worth gathering in. The more we understand God’s love for this vineyard, the more we will identify with Jesus’ words later on when He warns Israel that God will prune away the worthless branches and graft in new ones.

Isaiah is an amazing artist who, by the power of God, is able to paint some exotic pictures. His depictions remind me of the 3-D pictures that can only be perceived by those who are able to properly focus. Many people are unable to see the hidden images because they are only able to focus on the surface of the picture. To see the mysterious representation, one must be able to focus beyond the immediate visual rendering. Although Isaiah speaks of the devastation to come and paints a picture of God’s plan to restore His people, those who are able to view it with a proper focus are able to see that the hidden truths speak of the end of time and the Messianic reign of Christ. With a proper focus, we are able to see that the prophetic word concerning the king of Babylon and his coming fall also predicts the total destruction of Satan himself. The one who once believed he held the world in the power of his hand and manipulated mankind to do his bidding will find himself dethroned and humiliated in front of the ones who had put their trust in him.

As sure as God is on His heavenly throne, there will come a day of reckoning! It’s not a pretty sight. May this picture remind us to hold fast to God’s ways in the midst of this dark world!!!

November 16-20, 2009

Sorry folks! This was scheduled to post last Friday. I'm not sure why it didn't!!! Please forgive the delay.




The people of Israel mingle with godless foreigners, making themselves as worthless as a half-baked cake. Worshiping foreign gods has sapped their strength, but they don’t even know it. Their hair is gray, but they don’t realize they’re old and weak. Hosea 7:8-9







As we continue our journey with Hosea, we look around and wonder what country we are in. The people of Israel don’t look much different than the nations that surround her. She continues to adopt the appearance of the nations she has adjoined herself to. God’s promise to leave them to their selves and let them suffer their own destruction is no idle threat!!! The only way they will ever see that they did not become a nation and obtain their land in their own strength is to remove His powerful hand and let them fall flat on their face!

On Tuesday we listen to God reminisce about His son Israel. He remembers the love He felt for him when He brought him out of Egypt. He remembers the days in the wilderness when He taught him how to walk. He remembers being a loving Father and putting food and provisions on his table. But now all He sees is an ungrateful son who has forsaken the ways of His Father to walk the ways of the wicked. Any parent who has ever had a child intentionally choose the wrong path can relate to the heartache God speaks with. God has come to the place that He will no longer run interference for Israel. They are guilty and they will bear the pain of their own sin. No more bail money!!! No more begging and pleading! God clearly lets them know that they are on their own!!!!

But on Wednesday we are reminded of how loving and forgiving YHWH, the God of Israel is. If they will return, confess and acknowledge their sins, He will heal, love and bless them again. The God of heaven and earth will continue to reign on His throne. He is not going any place. If they want Him, they know where to find Him and the path it takes to get there!

As we discover the characteristic of the leaders and people of the northern kingdom, we recognize the face of our world today. The love of partying and the pride of how much booze one can hold are their sordid marks of respect. God clearly tells them that the first time He spoke was to give them rest, but the second time He speaks will to show them justice and righteousness. He speaks of placing a Cornerstone by which all others must be measured if they desire to understand God’s standards.

Thursday is a day of great sadness. The northern kingdom of Israel meets her fate. Those who survive the siege by Assyria live on, only to be carried off into exile. The land would have become completely overrun had it not been for Tiglath-pileser’s civilian replacement policy. But we quickly learn that these foreign substitutes are made aware that, although God’s people are no longer in the land, the God of Israel still remains. The priest who was sent back to teach the new inhabitants the ways of YHWH, the God of Israel, is unable to eradicate the mixture in the land. It is obvious that he held on to the teachings of Jeroboam and the sacred cows! All he could do was to teach what he knew. Tradition is a powerful stronghold!!!

The Samaritans of Jesus time were a direct result of this mixture. Not only did they mingle their religions, they mingled their blood. If all were going well in Israel these half-breeds would claim their Jewish roots, if not, they held their Assyrian roots up as a banner. Later on, when the Jews returned from captivity, the returning Jews despised these Samaritans.

On Friday we meet up again with our friend Isaiah. Isaiah is a man who doesn’t hold back. He is one of those preachers who knows how to paint a vivid picture using words that cut to the quick. “A dumb ox or a stupid ass is smarter than you people of Judah and Jerusalem!” In spite of the unwillingness of the people to hear the message, Isaiah continues to outline the road to repentance. God refuses to listen to their empty prayers! If they want to find Him, they are going to have to do more than lip service! Repentance is shown by the willingness to learn to do good and to seek justice. In other words, true repentance is proven by our actions!

Isaiah gives us a glimpse of the last days. He speaks of the time when Messiah will sit in the Temple in Jerusalem and the nations of the world will desire to come and learn His ways. This passing glance not only continues to give hope to the nation of Israel today, it is a hope we Christians can fix our gaze upon. We have yet to see this promise fulfilled and in the midst of this world of sin and turmoil, we too can hold on to the promise of the coming Messiah who will establish His kingdom in righteousness and truth. As Paul once said, “If the cutting off of the Jews brought glory, how much more glory will there be when they are grafted back in?” God has promised them and us that the day of Messiah’s reign will come. As we look at the news and the events that are happening around us, all we can say is, “Even so, Lord Jesus COME!!!”

November 9-13, 2009

Moreover, when Ahaz gathered together the utensils of the house of God, he cut the utensils of the house of God in pieces; and he closed the doors of the house of the Lord and made altars for himself in every corner of Jerusalem. (II Chronicles28:24)




We begin our week with great promise. In spite of all the devastation Israel faces, God makes a declaration of hope. The people of Zebulun and Naphtali will be the first to see the great Light, the Messiah who will rule His eternal government in great peace. A Child will be born; a Son will be given! Joy, fairness and justice will mark His rule forever. But before they see this great One, death and destruction resulting from God’s anger looms on the horizon.

Like a single golden thread in a garment, the hope of Messiah is periodically woven into the fabric of Isaiah’s prophecies. Israel will be totally cut down to the nub, but the Branch from Jesse’s stump will shoot up and grow.

In spite of the constant warning, Israel continues on its destructive path, with Judah following not far behind. Just when you think it can’t get any worse, along comes King Ahaz of Judah. Not only does he encourage people to sin, he replaces God’s altar with a replica of the pagan altar he saw in Assyria. One would wonder how a nation could be so blind, or a king so ignorant. But we watch the steady dimming of light right here in my nation. A nation who once understood that the God of Israel was the foundation on which we were built, now argues over taking “one nation under God” out of its pledge of allegiance, and “in God we trust” off her currency. Nations who shut YHWH out, soon find that the doors of the Temple become closed! Churches that are unwilling to compromise the gospel are forced to go underground. For far too many, comfort and conformity are more desirable than walking God’s narrow path.

On Thursday we meet a most unusual man whose desire to get people to hear God’s word and understand His heart goes beyond natural logic. Hosea is willing to endure heartbreak and rejection at the command of the Lord if it will bring people to repentance. Through the vivid picture painted by Hosea’s harlot wife, God portrays His love for His people and their unfaithfulness. More amazing than the story of Hosea’s unfaithful wife, is the declaration of God’s unfailing love! As guilty as Israel is, God will not give up until He has worked repentance into His people.

On Friday we will stop by the courthouse where Israel’s deeds will be judged. The indictments against her are numerous: unfaithfulness, no kindness, no knowledge of God her husband, covenant breaker, murder, stealing, adultery, and violence. Her guilt can no longer be covered up! And the root of her guilt is exposed – the priests have led the way! The priests, leaders and royal family must bear the responsibility for what they have done. It was their duty to lead the people into an understanding of God’s ways, but their desire for money and fame was stronger than their desire for righteousness.

We end our week hearing Hosea’s mournful cry to come and return to the Lord. If only the people would listen, they would find a merciful God, ready to open His arms of forgiveness and welcome them into His house. But man has shut the door and only man can open it again.

November 2-6, 2009

What sorrow awaits you who say,
“If only the day of the LORD were here!”
You have no idea what you are wishing for.
That day will bring darkness, not light.
(Amos 5:18)

Before we continue our journey, sit down with me a moment and let me tell you a story of my life. When I was five years old, I was in a tornado. My aunt who was just sixteen at the time, was babysitting that evening, while my parents were at a church function. As the darkness gathered and the hail began to fall, my aunt huddled us together in our living room. We did not have a basement and there was no place to hide. As the tornado ripped down the street, falling huge trees, tearing apart houses and buildings and blowing windows out of storefronts and homes, my aunt did the only thing she knew to keep us safe; she had us pray. When the storm lifted, you could no longer see the street because of the number of trees that filled the pavement. While there was damage all around us, the only thing our house endured was blown leaves in the yard.

For many years afterward, the sound of strong wind rustling through the trees gave me a very unsettled feeling. As an adult, dark storm clouds brought great fear. One day as the sirens went off, notifying us that a tornado had been sighted, and I sat huddled with my children, I stopped to ask myself, “Who holds your life and orders your steps? Do you trust Him or don’t you?” And from that moment on, the fear of storms literally vanished!

As we continue our journey, we will watch the storm clouds darken the skies. The devastation of God’s judgment is coming and there is no holding it back! As we continue our steps with Amos, we hear his concern for the household of Jacob. Each time he sees the judgment hand of God on the horizon, he intercedes and God relents. Finally, God takes Amos to the wall and holds the plumb line up to it. The wall is faulty and leaning and must be dealt with. This is when God tells Amos to stop interceding; His judgment will come.

I can only wonder how well Amos’ message would go over in the church today. He preaches that the people piously sit in their pews on Sunday and go back to the sinful, cheating ways on Monday. There was not a famine of the Word of God, but a famine for HEARING the Word of the Lord. Amos’ prophecy is clear - God is about to shake things up and there will be no place to hide!

In spite of all of Israel’s sin and rebellion, there is still a ray of hope in the dark, foreboding clouds. God promises to rebuild what He tears down. God’s word through this fig farmer promises abundant fruitfulness and assures them they will never again be uprooted.

On Wednesday we meet Tiglath-pileser III. His name was actually Pul or Pula, but he took on the title of the mighty Assyrian ruler, Tiglath-pileser I who ruled about three hundred years earlier. Very little is said of Tiglath-pileser II. Pul enthroned himself after a bloody coup in which he had all the royal family killed. His quest for power caused him to become one of the greatest conquerors of all time. Nation by nation, he swallowed them up and forced Assyrian rule upon the region. To keep rebellion at bay, he transplanted citizens into the conquered lands and kept them dependant on Assyrian provision and protection. He was also the one who brought Babylon under Assyrian dominance. We will learn more about him as we continue our journey in the days ahead.

Also on Wednesday, we bid farewell to King Uzziah, the king God struck with leprosy because of his arrogance. In the year King Uzziah dies, we are confronted with one of the most prominent prophets of God to ever come on the scene. Isaiah’s message of despair speaks clearly of the Assyrian invasion that lies on the horizon. Isaiah is so filled with the Word of the Lord that he even weaves God’s warnings in the names of his children. When Isaiah tells them that he and his children serve as a warning, he meant it. The names of his children spelled out their impending doom!

It is sad to hear Isaiah’s word and know that they fell on deaf ears. What makes it so heartbreaking is that his words could easily be said to this generation and, for the most part, would have the same response. God will only tolerate sin for so long before He calls for a day of reckoning. The darkness that is gathering today warns of a greater gloom than in Isaiah’s day. Our only hope is to hide under the shadow of God’s wing. Only there will we be safe until the storm passes by!

October 26-29, 2009

Thus Jehu eradicated Baal out of Israel. However, as for the sins of Jeroboam the son of Nebat, which he made Israel sin, from these Jehu did not depart, even the golden calves that were at Bethel and that were at Dan. (2 Kings 10:28-29)





This week we begin our journey with a shout of victory. King Jehu of Israel eradicates Baalism, killing the prophets, burning the images, and turning the temple into a public latrine. But in the midst of such victory, once again we hear the word, “However.” Yes, once again we are confronted with the big “BUT.” By the time Jehu became king, the golden calves had become steeped in his tradition. Although God told Jehu that He was pleased with his deeds, the lingering compromise eventually got the better of him and he “did not depart from the sins of Jeroboam, which he made Israel sin.”

Why didn’t Jehu complete what he had started? Why was he content to only go so far and then stop? We might find the answer if we search our own hearts and lives. I know it has caused me to do some soul searching. There are many things we embrace in Christianity that come from pagan roots. They have been adopted and refashioned as Christian symbols, and yet are of pagan origin. It is often difficult to explain why we don’t wear, have or do certain things because you are often considered fanatic or radical. It is not the world that often marks you, but those within the church. I’ve often wondered what the church would look like if all pagan mixture were eradicated. If the Holy Spirit were to start housecleaning in the House of God, I wonder how we would react if He began to touch some of our sacred cows?!?!

As our gaze moves from the King’s Highway in Israel, we find extensive road construction on the Highway in Judah! Athaliah, the power hungry daughter of King Ahab of Israel, now seizes power in Judah. Compromise and making friends with this world will sooner or later run its full course!!! Although the king had married himself to the family of Ahab, the king’s daughter was married to the man of God! There is a real lesson that urges us to be careful what we allow ourselves to become yoked to. There is so much that could be said, but I will allow you to meditate on that for yourselves.

Jehosheba, the sister of Ahaziah, the assassinated king, knew the only safe place to hide his infant son was in the Lord’s presence. At six years old, when most boys are learning to ride bikes and play king of the hill, Jehoash is anointed and declared king of Judah. Instead of a toy sword or a comic book, Jehoash is given a scepter and a copy of the law. For the rest of Jehoiada’s lifetime, he carries governmental influence over Johoash and brings major reform to the kingdom of Judah. As amazing as these changes were, we find ourselves running into the big “BUT” once again.

And Jehoash did right in the sight of the LORD all his days in which Jehoiada the priest instructed him. Only the high places were not taken away; the people still sacrificed and burned incense on the high places. (2 Kings 12:2-3)

Whether “but” is spelled “however,” or “only,” they all mean the same thing. The word “but” is “used to introduce something contrasting with what has already been mentioned.” (New American Heritage Dictionary) “He did right, BUT …,” “He did good, BUT…,” In each case, it show a failure to reach the ultimate goal; total sanctification. It makes me wonder what my epitaph will read.Paul is a good example of one who didn’t want to find the word “but” in his memorial statement!

Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you entirely; and may your spirit and soul and body be preserved complete, without blame at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. (1 Thessalonians 5:23)

If only Jehoash’s story ended there, but unfortunately it didn’t. After Jehoiada’s death, the righteous influence Jehoash had experienced all his life was gone. Now it was time to see what he was really made of! Was he merely one driven by the influence of others, or were the actions and decisions he made truly done out of his own convictions. We quickly see that Jehoash was a man that was easily swayed and the worship of Asherah poles is reinstated. Sigh!!!

On Wednesday we watch the bridge wash out. Elisha’s last prophecy was anything but good! Israel’s defeat of Syria would be short lived! BUT the saddest part of our journey on Wednesday is to see the ongoing division amongst the people of God. How sad!

We are in for a real adventure on Thrusday!!! Grab your swim fins and snorkel as we head out on an incredible journey with Jonah, the mighty man of God with the word of God in his mouth and anger and resentment in his heart. When God tells Jonah to go to Nineveh, Jonah hops a ship in the opposite direction. Nineveh was the capital of Assyria. As we continue our journey, it will become increasingly clear why Jonah had no desire to bring God’s word to this city. Nineveh was one of the oldest cities on the planet, having been founded by Nimrod centuries earlier. The worship of Istar was founded here. This fertility goddess took on many forms and many names. At times she was Istar, other times she was referred to as Nina and was written in the character for “fish.” No coincidence that God had Jonah swallowed up by one! Today the city of Nineveh lies across from Mogul in Iraq. For centuries, Nineveh lay on the east side of the Tigris River and Mogul lay on the west. But as Mogul expanded on both east and west banks, it now has engulfed the site of ancient Nineveh. The maps below will aid you in discerning our location. Both Nineveh and Tarsus can be found. But why did Jonah head to Tarsus. That was also in the borders of the Assyrian Empire? Centuries and many conquests later, Tarsus became the birth place of Saul of Tarsus who, after a face to face encounter with the Risen King, became Paul the apostle. Ahhhh, such delicious food for thought!!!

Jonah’s life is a pertinent message that speaks to the heart of every person who says they want to do the will of God, and then has God give them a mission they are less than pleased with. Three times Jonah prays to die, yet when he is truly dying, he prays to live.

One of the beautiful things I’ve learned about God from Jonah’s fish tale is that God will go to extremes to teach a lesson. God prepares a plant, a worm, and a scorching wind just so He can bring Jonah understanding. Now that’s a Teacher who truly cares!!!

Although the city of Nineveh repents, we will soon discover that their allegiance to YHWH is short-lived. God looks at the nations surrounding Israel and Judah and the influence they have had on His people and promises judgment. God looks at His own kids and knows that His justice must be met out to them as well. The storm clouds are gathering. God has spoken and judgment will come!

******

Trail Guide

Using the map below:

1. Find Jerusalem

2. Find Samaria

3. Find Nineveh

4. Find Tarsus

5. Find Babylon

6. Using a current map of the area (you can find one on the Internet), find Mogul in Iraq

October 19-23, 2009

Then it came about as they were going along and talking, that behold, there appeared a chariot of fire and horses of fire which separated the two of them. And Elijah went up by a whirlwind to heaven.

II Kings 2:11

This week we will behold some pretty spectacular sights. The last leg of our journey with Elijah is filled with memorable moments. Last week we saw what fatigue and a sense of loneliness can do to even the strongest man of God. But Elijah’s encounter with God’s presence obviously re-energized him with the strength he needed to finish his task. Elijah doesn’t hesitate to confront King Ahaziah with the word of the Lord when he sends to inquire of Baal-zebub about his future. King Ahaziah is another king who doesn’t appreciate God's words and orders Elijah's arrest and is met with the fire of the Almighty. You’d think some people would learn by others mistakes, but unfortunately too many individuals are bent on making their own!!!

There is soooooooo much that could be said about Elijah’s trip into eternity. If Elisha and the sons of the prophets knew he was walking the last steps of his journey on this earth, you can be sure Elijah knew it as well. Elijah’s test of Elisha is one we would be wise to carefully consider. In a round about way, he was testing Elisha’s resolve. “Will you go with me all the way, or will you look for the easy way?” Since Elijah said, “Stay here, for the Lord has sent me to …..,” Elisha could easily have justified his reasons for staying behind. After all, didn’t Elijah tell him to? We saw Naomi use this same technique with Ruth! Unfortunately, some people will grab on to any excuse to ease their journey. For some, it doesn’t take much for them to excuse themselves from going to church, or to Bible study, or to any other gathering of the saints. Only if Elisha was there till the last moment, would he see his heart’s desire fulfilled! Elisha continued to learn right up till the last moment. He may have experienced Elijah’s anointing, he may have been momentarily wrapped in his mantle, but Elisha understood that these were merely the experiences of his call, not the fulfillment of his ministry. Only a continuous walk with a teachable heart would prepare him to walk in Elijah’s footsteps.

Even after Elijah was taken, Elisha understood that an experience and a mantle were not enough if he didn’t have the God of Elijah! And he was quick to learn that even those who know the word and the works of God find it difficult to embrace change! The sons of the prophets struggled with embracing Elisha’s new status. After all, wasn’t he a son of the prophet just like them? Elisha understood that sometimes you have to let people discover the truth for themselves and he permitted them to go and search for Elijah, knowing that they wouldn’t find him. He also realized that their accusations of him being self-ambitious would only be laid to rest if they knew Elijah was truly gone.

As we experience our adventures with Elisha, we quickly discern that truly he is walking under the same anointing and authority as Elijah. He has learned well from his predecessor. The same fire of God is at his disposal. The same healing power is working through him. The same discernment guides his steps. We also see that Elisha had the same place of authority in the life of the king. It’s one thing to prophecy; it’s another to be called to be God’s spokesman to the king! And just as Ahab blamed Elisha for the woes of the nation, Elisha becomes the king’s target of blame for the miserable state of the nation. It always amazes me that people who are bent on sinning tend to blame their miseries on everyone else but themselves. It reminds me of a pastor I know who was having an ongoing affair for two years and refused to quit seeing the woman. His wife contacted me for counsel, wanting to know what God’s Word required of her. After the divorce was final, her husband sent me a message saying, “Thank Shirley for ruining my life!” Yep, some things never change!!! It is so much easier to blame the messenger than to deal with sin before God!

At the end of the week, we watch as Jezebel is thrown to her death. Unfortunately, her wicked influence outlives her! Between Jeroboam’s introduction of the golden calves and Jezebel’s propagation of Baalism, the nation continues on a downward spiral. Their rejection of God and His ways shows how ignorant they were. They may have forgotten their covenant with God, but God hadn’t forgotten His covenant with them. As we continue our journey, we will see this covenant-keeping God in action. Let’s continue to walk, watch and learn!

October 12-16, 2009

And Ahab the son of Omri did evil in he sight of the Lord more than all who were before him. And it came about, as though it had been a trivial thing for him to walk in the sins of Jeroboam the son of Nebat, that he married Jezebel the daughter of Ethbaal king of the Sidonians, and went to serve Baal and worship him.

I Kings 16:30-31

I’ve traveled a lot of roads throughout this world and I’ve seen a lot of road signs along the way. I believe that each one has been put there for a good reason and I would be wise to heed their message. Unfortunately, as we travel along our path this week, we find that not everyone pays attention to the signs and continue to take the same deadly road as the person before them.

As we travel the northern kings’ highway, we find that the leaders of Israel all took the same road. Each king’s route is compared to the course of Jeroboam. The two golden calves set up in Dan and Bethel and called by the name YHWH not only marked the territorial extremes of the kingdom, but also identified the extremes of their sin. Although each king was aware of the warnings and signs through the prophets sent to their predecessors, their message was ignored and they proceeded on their sinful journey.

This week we are introduced to a new benchmark of sin in Israel, the northern kingdom. As a result of a coup led by Omri, Israel’s most wicked family came into power. The death spiral to the nation not only affected the northern kingdom, but was also the catalyst that brought the Kingdom of Judah to its demise. As if Omri wasn’t bad enough, he sired a son named Ahab! What was it that Ahab propagated that made him so wicked? He married Jezebel, the Sidonite, and she brought her god with her. Ahab built a temple and an altar for Baal and stood to worship this abomination!

As we continue our journey with the kings, we find that Baalism and the worship of Asherah invoke great anger in YHWH, the one true God. As we continue on our trek, it will help if we understand the nature of Baalism. Baal became a term that encompassed a number of different pagan gods. Their commonality is that they are all linked to the god and goddess of fertility. The priests of Baal always wore black. Worship of Baal was expressed through burning incense, sacrifices, sometimes even human sacrifices, and sexual intercourse. It was a religion based on sensory experience. Music, dance, scents were all used to heighten desire and engage the senses. It was believed that rain was Baal’s sperm coming down to impregnate the soil. Isn’t that a disgusting thought!!!

Because worshippers have a desire to emulate whatever, or whomever they worship, sex and fertility became an important part of the cultic practice. Groves of trees were planted and kept for worshippers to come and cohabitate with priests or priestesses of the cult. This is where the term “temple prostitute” originated. Children born of these unions were thought to be sacred and also became priests and priestesses. It was the duty of every married male and female to come to the groves when they were beseeching Baal’s help or blessing. Before the Israelites went into Canaan, God had told them they were not to emulate the nations who dwelt there before them.

You shall not do what is done in the land of Egypt where you lived, nor are you to do what is done in the land of Canaan where I am bringing you; you shall not walk in their statutes. (Leviticus 18:3)

What was it that the nations had done before them that caused the land to spew them out? You may want to be reminded and read Leviticus 18. “You shall not uncover the nakedness of…..” is the constant phrase throughout the chapter. “Uncovering nakedness” didn’t refer to peaking up a woman’s skirt, but to sexual misconduct. Every kind of sexual acts mentioned in Leviticus 18 were welcomed practices in the Baal cult. God had put a clear signpost for the nation of Israel. The imminent danger for disobedience was clearly spelled out.

But as for you, you are to keep My statutes and My judgments, and shall not do any of these abominations, neither the native, nor the alien who sojourns among you; (for the men of the land who have been before you have done all these abominations, and the land has become defiled); so that the land may not spew you out, should you defile it, as it has spewed out the nation which has been before you. (Leviticus 18:26-28)

Ahab’s not only catered to Jezebel’s desire to bring Baalism into the country, but encouraged her ambition to eradicate the worship of YHWH and replace it with Baal and Asherah. Her intent was to kill every prophet of YHWH within the northern kingdom of Israel.

It is on this backdrop that we are introduced to Elijah, the Tishbite. Our first encounter with this amazing prophet is when he comes and stands before Ahab and says, “As YHWH, the God of Israel lives, before whom I stand, surely there shall be neither dew nor rain these years, except by my word.” When we remember that in Baalism, it was believed that rain was Baal’s sperm, we can quickly understand that Elijah’s words before the king were a declaration of war on Baalism!

As we walk down the road with the kings of Israel, we continually see the nation decline and take on the characteristics of the nations God had driven out before them. From our lofty perspective, we wonder how they could be so blind to the dangers ahead. Didn’t they read the road signs? Couldn’t they perceive the tragic end? The marker clearly spelled out the danger!!! But like so many people in this life, their flesh found satisfaction on the path they were on, and the thrill of the moment overrode the impending doom that lay ahead.

May we be careful to read the warning signs in God’s Word that clearly mark any dangerous path we may turn on. And may we follow the light that will bring us back to the right way. Truly, our life depends on it!!!

October 5-9, 2009

So the Lord said to Solomon, “Because you have done this, and you have not kept My covenant and My statutes, which I have commanded you, I will surely tear the kingdom from you, and will give it to your servant. … However, I will not tear away all the kingdom, but I will give one tribe to your son for the sake of My servant David and for the sake of Jerusalem which I have chosen.”
I Kings 11:11 & 13


This week our journey takes us to a fork in the road. We have been walking the road of life with Solomon for the last couple weeks and seen the life of a man who started the race well, but ended it tragically. We find a man who knows how to give good advice, but doesn’t know how to life what he preaches! Hopefully, Solomon’s concluding words in Ecclesiastes were spoken as he neared the end of his road of life and was truly remorseful for the direction he had taken.

The conclusion, when all has been heard, is: fear God and keep His commandments, because this applies to every person. Because God will bring every act to judgment, everything which is hidden, whether it is good or evil. Ecclesiastes 12:13-14

If we have no goal, then how will we know which road we should be taking? After a lifetime of searching for the meaning of life, Solomon came to realize that someday, we will all stand before God, and life should be lived with that eternal view!

On Tuesday we come to the great divide in the road. One road is built on the foundation of the folly of youth, while the other is built on the passion for power. Solomon’s son Rehoboam was out of touch with the people and was enjoying the lap of luxury at their expense. Obviously, his contemporaries held his same values. Words of those who had lived longer and gained some wisdom and experience held no weight in the minds of youthful ambition. Some things never change!

Our introduction to Jeroboam starts off on a positive note, but quickly turns to custard! We hear God’s plan and promise for him and his family. But it doesn’t take Jeroboam long to doubt God’s ability and his fears drive him to take matters into his own hands. Have you ever notice how some roads can look so much like others that you have traveled before?

Wednesday’s journey brings about a sober reminder that those who are called into ministry incur a stricter judgment! All I can say is, “Thank God for His mercy and grace!!!!!”

Rather than walk one road or the other, our journey will be the highway that is able to see both roads at the same time. On Thursday we see a demonstration of God’s tenderness and His tremendous ability to forgive. Rehoboam’s repentance is quickly met with God’s mercy. But we also see that forgiveness doesn’t always wipe away all consequences!

We find that the road of the kings’ is filled with hills and valleys. It is also like the freeways of Detroit that deteriorate quickly and are constantly in need of repair!!! Just about the time one king makes road improvements, another king comes and tears them up. Patching potholes will only last for a time. The only repair that will last is tearing up the road and laying the foundation all over again!

We also are reminded that speaking the word of God is often not what people want to hear and carries great repercussions.

We will be following these two roads for a while. There is lots of drama along the way, and times you will need to know what is happening on both roads simultaneously. So get out your binoculars, keep a pencil and some paper handy and let’s get going!

September 28-October 2, 2009

Behold, I have found only this, that God made men upright, but they have sought out many devices!
Ecclesiastes 7:29









Our week begin with hearing the last couple of verses of Solomon’s highest song. We continue to watch this young women grow until she declares that her breasts are as towers, she has fully matured! Every part of her being has been attended to. The Bridegroom is pleased with all that He sees!!! She has learned to stay in the arms of her Beloved and lean on Him. What a contrast from the little sister who has no breasts. She is totally unprepared on the day “she is spoken for.” I trust you will determine with me to do all we can to be prepared for the Bridegroom’s call!

At the conclusion of Solomon’s song, we meet a whole different Solomon. On Wednesday we are introduced to the flaws of his life. Here is the man to whom God had given such great wisdom. He has the wisdom to rule the kingdom, but fails to use that wisdom in his personal affairs. There certainly is nothing new under the sun!!! How many times do we hear of men (or women) who can run a successful business, but fail in their homes and in their marriages? We are told that Solomon loved what he shouldn’t have; he love foreign woman! He failed to keep God’s command when He told Israel not to marry women from the nations of Egypt, Moab, Ammon, Edom, the Hittites and others, because they would “turn their hearts.” Obviously, Solomon thought=2
0he was different from the rest and that his wisdom could handle it. WRONG!!!! You wonder how he could have gotten it so wrong! Compromise comes little by little. I’ve been watching it in the church for years!!! Things seem harmless in the beginning, sometimes it even look like a good thing. But little by little, values change and what people would have never embraced before, doesn’t look so bad anymore.

The saddest thing is to watch Solomon turn into a Saul!!!!!! God tells him that He is going to take the kingdom from him because of his failure to stay true to YHWH. And so what does Solomon do? He endeavors to kill the one he fears will succeed him.

The last part of our week looks at a Solomon in a whole different phase of life; Solomon the old man. The path we follow in the territory of Ecclesiastes can seem very confusing. But if we put it in perspective, we will find it quite enlightening. Solomon has been searching for wisdom and the meaning of life. He has tried to understand everything under the sun. He has learned that the ability to know everything belongs only to God! Study and search every moment of your life, and you will still come up alarmingly short of the goal. If there is one thing I have learned in my lifetime of study, it is that I will not live long enough to scratch the surface of knowing and understanding all that the Word of God contains. I
t’s knowledge and hidden meanings are far to vast to be absorbed in a lifetime, no matter how long I am given!!!!!!

Ecclesiastes looks at the futility of life if there were no God and no eternity. What’s the sense of it? Time and time again, Solomon reminds us that the only time we can find purpose is when we recognize God does exist and He does pay attention to what we do with our lives. He acknowledges that God’s ways are the only paths that bring contentment and satisfaction to life. Solomon has seen the worship of foreign gods, up close and personal. He has even been nagged into taking part in his wives’ pagan rituals. (He obviously knew the effect of their constant “drippings,” like the annoyance of a leaky roof!) In spite of all he has experienced, Solomon cannot shake the truth that when we live a life pleasing to God and walk in His ways, there is a sense of satisfaction with life.

So take out your notepads as you walk with this man of wisdom and failure, and learn the true meaning of life. God has put eternity in our hearts and given us the desire to live pleasing to Him. So let’s keep striving to know our Maker and live in the realm of eternity while we are walking on this earth!

September 21-25, 2009

Sensible people keep their eyes glued on wisdom, but a fool’s eyes wander to the ends of the earth. Proverbs 17:24 NLT

As we continue on the path of wisdom through the Proverbs, we might find ourselves saying, “Haven’t we been here before?” Sometimes we pass things that look much like what we’ve already seen, and other times we find ourselves looking at the same thing from a different position. On Thursday we are given thirty focal points that will lead us to wisdom’s gate. I am convinced that if we started our journey with this list, making each one of them a lead point, we would find that all of the proverbs would relate to one or the other.

Exercising along the way is healthy so let me give you an exercise to do. Take each one of the thirty points and try to boil it down to a simple statement. Let me give you my condensed version of the first five. You may choose to do them differently, but it will give you an idea of the goal.

1. Have compassion for the poor and needy.
2. Don’t befriend angry people.
3. Don’t take on someone else’s debt.
4. Respect other people’s property.
5. Hard work will be rewarded.

Try to find the heart of the topic, and not merely paraphrase the verse. You may even want to shift your schedule around and begin your week with this particular trail. Then observe as you go through the rest of the week and see where the other proverbs fall. It’s kind of like the game you play when you are on a long road trip with the kids. “Okay kids, how many green cars can we see?”

Three times this week we will hear God’s warning against false scales. I had always applied this to business vendors. I want to be sure I get a pound of bologna when we stop for our lunches, and not ¾ of a pound! But I believe there is a greater message for us, than for the butcher. It is so easy to use double standards when we weigh out each other’s lives and actions. I want to weigh worth by your actions, but place my deeds on the scales of my intentions. DOUBLE STANDARDS!

I wonder how many other proverbs we miss because we look at the obvious and fail to comprehend the riddle it contains! I don’t think you are too young or too old to receive wise counsel and get good direction from this amazing Proverbs pathway.

SONG OF ALL SONGS
On Friday, be sure you dress up. We’re going to the theater! We will conclude out week by watching the beginning of the most beautiful drama ever written, The Song of Solomon. What an amazing love story. Let me give you the program so you can follow along.
Act I – Young Love (chapters 1-2)
The scene opens with the young maiden giddy with love. Although she is a bit self-conscious and struggles a bit with insecurity, she knows she loves this man with all her heart. His desire for a secret meeting brings about quite an adventure!

Act II – The Garden of Love (chapters 3-6)
Through Act II we watch their love grow and blossom. All seems to be going so well until he introduces her to others. She becomes withdrawn. She still loves him, but has closed the door on him. His gentle pursuit turns the romance around.

Act III – Everlasting Love (chapters 7-8)
Weddings are special and this one is amazing! I can’t wait for us to get there!!!

What a great week we have ahead of us! Put on your 3-D glasses and keep your eyes open for the hidden wonders along the journey. There is so much to see!

September 14-18, 2009

Let the wise listen to these proverbs and become even wiser. Let those with understanding receive guidance by exploring the meaning in these proverbs and parables the words of the wise and their riddles.
Proverbs 1:5-6




This week our journey heads down the path of wisdom and understanding. Solomon, our tour guide for the next couple of weeks, knows how important it is to listen and observe until we find the missing pieces that will help us see the whole picture! Proverbs and parables are riddles; word pictures that take thought and ingenuity to solve. Solomon’s desire is to help us discern the mysteries of this ancient path that leads to success.

We begin our trip with Wisdom beckoning us on her path. Solomon knows the path well. His father and mother traveled it with him regularly. I’ve been on this tour with Solomon many times before. If there’s one thing I know for sure, he loves relating the lessons he learned as he grew up under the tutelage of David and Bathsheba. He places great value on their words and instructions! You don’t have to walk with Solomon for very long before you hear his father’s influence on him. The heart of the Proverbs Path is to encourage us to fear God, and not focus on the dangers that surround us.

If you’ve ever lived in the Detroit area, you quickly learn that there are some exits on the freeway that you don’t want to take! And there are certain areas of town you don’t want to be in, day or night! Only those who are familiar with the city know the places of greatest danger. Solomon is quick to point out some intersections and street corners to stay away from! The path of wisdom knows to stay clear of red light districts and shady paths of deception.

Solomon’s map shows the safest route. Trusting God, honoring Him with all that you have, and seeking to do His will is sure to keep us from taking wrong turns! What’s great about this path of righteousness is that it’s well lit; it is like the light of dawn that grows brighter and brighter! We also find that it is well marked. The way is clearly defined on the hilltops, along the road, at the crossroads, by the gates at town entrances and along the entrance roads.

When we go on tour in Israel, the government requires that a license guide escort us. This tour chaperone knows the land and the laws and is paid to safely guide us. Our wisdom tour requires some traveling companions. Before we commence on our journey, it is necessary to make sure common sense, success, insight and strength are by our side.

There are some amazing buildings we will pass along the way. We will see Wisdom’s house with the seven pillars. We will eat of the food and the wine on her table. We will stop by the graveside of folly and pass the empty fields of the lazy. We will check out a new building site and see the makings of a sure foundation. Make sure you take notes!
We will learn that talk is cheap, money can’t buy everything, and honesty is the best policy. We will also discover that if we really love to learn, we need to love discipline! This obviously, is not going to be a stroll in the park. I hope you have good shoes on, because we are about to traverse a lot of ground! Sometimes the path will be easy, and other times we will find it difficult to climb. There’s much to see along the way, so keep your eyes and ears open. You don’t want to miss it!!!

SPECIAL ENTRY

Hi fellow travelers,

I have had a couple of people who either did not get the reading schedule for this next quarter, or were unable to open the schedule. As a result, I am posting the schedules here on the site. This should take you through the end of the year. Thanks for your perseverance!

Traveling Blessings!!!!

READING SCHEDULE FOR ONE YEAR CHRONOLOGICAL BIBLE

THIRD QUARTER
JULY 2009
Date Pages Read to, but not including
Wed 1 445-448 Warriors Join David’s Army
Thu 2 448-451 David Destroys the Amalekites
Fri 3 No Reading
Mon 6 451-454 David Learns of Saul’s Death
Tue 7 455-459 David’s Sons Born in Hebron
Wed 8 459-462 Abner Joins Forces with David
Thu 9 462-466 David Conquers the Philistines
Fri 10 466-470 The Ark Moved to Jerusalem
Mon 13 470-474 The Lord’s Covenant Promise..
Tue 14 474-477 Psalm 60
Wed 15 477-481 David Defeats the Ammonites
Thu 16 481-484 Nathan Rebukes David
Fri 17 484-487 The Rape of Tamar
Mon 20 487-491 Absalom’s Rebellion
Tue 21 491-495 David Escapes through the….
Wed 22 495-499 Joab Rebukes the King
Thu 23 499-501 Psalm 7
Fri 24 503-506 David’s Song of Praise
Mon 27 506-509 Psalm 18
Tue 28 509-512 Judgment for David’s Sin
Wed 29 512-516 Duties of the Levites
Thu 30 517-520 Duties of the Gatekeepers
Fri 31 520-524 David’s Instruction to Solomon

AUGUST 2009
Date Pages Read up to, but not including
Mon 3 524-528 Psalm 6
Tue 4 528-532 Psalm 15
Wed 5 532-535 Psalm 21
Thu 6 535-539 Psalm 25
Fri 7 539-543 Psalm 29
Mon 10 543-546 Psalm 35
Tue 11 546-551 Psalm 38
Wed 12 551-554 Psalm 41
Thu 13 554-558 Psalm 61
Fri 14 558-561 Psalm 67
Mon 17 561-566 Psalm 70
Tue 18 566-569 Psalm 108
Wed 19 569-573 Psalm 131
Thu 20 573-577 Psalm 143
Fri 21 577-580 Psalm 88
Mon 24 580-583 Psalm 50
Tue 25 583-587 Psalm 75
Wed 26 587-590 Psalm 78
Thu 27 590-593 Psalm 79
Fri 28 593-597 Psalm 83
Mon 31 597-601 Solomon Judges Wisely

SEPTEMBER 2009
Date Pages Read up, but not including
Tue 1 601-603 2 Chronicles 2:1-18
Wed 2 603-606 Solomon Builds His Palace
Thu 3 606-610 The Ark Brought to the Temple
Fri 4 610-612 Solomon’s Prayer of Dedication
Mon 7 No Reading
Tue 8 612-616 The Dedication of the Temple
Wed 9 616-619 1 Kings 9:15-28
Thu 10 619-623 Solomon’s Officials & Goven…
Fri 11 623-626 The Purpose of Proverbs
Mon 14 626-631 A Father’s Wise Advice
Tue 15 631-633 Lessons for Daily Life
Wed 16 633-636 Wisdom Calls for a Hearing
Thu 17 636-641 Proverbs 11:1-13:25
Fri 18 641-646 Proverbs 14:1-16:33
Mon 21 646-653 Proverbs 17:2-19:29
Tue 22 653-657 Proverbs 20:1-22:16
Wed 23 657-662 Thirty Sayings of the Wise
Thu 24 662-665 More Sayings of the Wise
Fri 25 665-669 Young Woman
Mon 28 669-672 Young Women of Jerusalem
Tue 29 672-676 Solomon’s Many Wives
Wed 30 676-679 The Futility of Wisdom

FOURTH QUARTER
OCTOBER 2009
Date Pages Read up to, but not including
Thu 1 679-683 Wisdom for Life
Fri 2 683-686 Thoughts on Wisdom and Folly
Mon 5 686-689 The Northern Tribes Revolt
Tue 6 689-692 A Prophet Denounces Jeroboam
Wed 7 692-696 Egypt Invades Judah
Thu 8 696-699 Baasha Rules in Israel
Fri 9 699-703 Zimri Rules in Israel
Mon 12 703-706 The Contest on Mount Carmel
Tue 13 706-709 The Call of Elisha
Wed 14 709-713 Johoshaphat and Ahab
Thu 15 713-716 The Death of Ahab
Fri 16 716-720 Elijah Confronts King Ahaziah
Mon 19 720-723 End of Jehoshaphat’s Reign
Tue 20 723-727 Miracles during a Famine
Wed 21 727-731 Ben-Hadad Besieges Samaria
Thu 22 731-734 Ahaziah Rules in Judah
Fri 23 734-738 Jehu Kills the Priests of Baal
Mon 26 738-742 Joash Rules in Judah
Tue 27 742-745 Jehoash Rules in Israel
Wed 28 745-749 Uzziah Rules in Judah
Thu 29 749-753 The Prophecy of Amos
Fri 30 753-759 A Call to Repentance

NOVEMBER 2009
Date Pages Read up to, but not including
Mon 2 759-762 A Vision of Locusts
Tue 3 762-766 A Promise of Restoration
Wed 4 766-769 Jotham Rules in Judah
Thu 5 769-772 2 Chronicles 28:1-15
Fri 6 772-776 Hope in the Messiah
Mon 9 776-779 Hope for the Lord’s People
Tue 10 779-782 A Message about Damascus …
Wed 11 782-785 Hoshea Rules in Israel
Thu 12 785-788 The Lord’s Case against Israel
Fri 13 788-792 Israel’s Love for Wickedness
Mon 16 792-796 The Lord’s Judgment against ..
Tue 17 796-800 The Lord’s Anger against Israel
Wed 18 800-805 Assyria Besieges Samaria
Thu 19 805-807 Isaiah’s Message for Rebellious
Fri 20 807-810 A Warning of Judgment
Mon 23 810-814 A Song about the Lord’s Vine...
Tue 24 814-818 A Taunt for Babylon’s King
Wed 25 818-823 To end of page
Thu 26 Happy Thanksgiving!
Fri 27 No Reading
Mon 30 825-828 Hezekiah’s Religious Reforms
Tue 31 828-831 Read to 26:1

DECEMBER 2009
Date Pages Read up, but not including
Wed 2 831-834 Read to 28:1
Thu 3 834-837 The Sayings of Agur
Fri 4 837-841 Psalm 42
Mon 7 841-844 Psalm 45
Tue 8 844-847 Psalm 49
Wed 9 847-850 Psalm 2
Thu 10 850-835 Psalm 91
Fri 11 835-858 Psalm 95
Mon 14 858-861 Psalm 102
Tue 15 861-865 Psalm 105
Wed 16 865-869 Psalm 107
Thu 17 869-872 Psalm 113
Fri 18 872-877 Psalm 119
Mon 21 877-880 Heth
Tue 22 880-882 Ayin
Wed 23 No Reading
Thu 24 No Reading
Fri 25 Merry Christmas
Mon 28 No Reading
Tue 29 No Reading
Wed 30 No Reading

READING SCHEDULE FOR OTHER BIBLES

August 31-September 4, 2009

Note: This was revised on Monday, August 31st at 3:17 Phoenix time




Now Solomon the son of David established himself securely over his kingdom, and the Lord his God was with him and exalted him greatly. (II Chronicles 1:1)







The passing of the baton is the most crucial part of a relay. For a smooth transition, both the one relinquishing ownership and the one receiving ownership must be in stride together. They must be going at the same pace, and there must be a moment when both have their hand on the baton at the same time. This week we watch David pass the kingdom on to Solomon and cheer him on as he gains speed.

SOLOMON’S SECOND ANOINTING
David realized that his time is short. Before his death, he was sure to put everything in order. We see Solomon and David stride together as David gives Solomon the plans and provisions for the Temple. We see that Solomon is anointed a second time as king. Don’t you find it interesting that the fist three kings of Israel each were anointed as king more than once? Saul and Solomon were anointed twice, while David was anointed three times. The question is, “Why?” Perhaps we will be more enlightened concerning leadership if we take a moment to consider these events. In each case, their first anointing was a confirmation of choice. This anointing set them apart to be groomed for the position they would hold. Their second anointing was a setting in place with the authority to function in what they were chosen to do.

All too often, people who receive the first anointing of the Spirit, fail to see this as a selection process. Rather than embrace the following period of time with the understanding that they are in prep school, they begin to function in a realm of authority they have not yet been given. Unfortunately, many have aborted the true call God had initially intended, and set their hand to building kingdoms of their own making.

Solomon’s education consisted of listening and heeding his father’s plans and advice. David was a wise teacher. He was careful to recognize his son’s call, but he was also cautious and didn’t make Solomon wise in his own eyes. David desired his son to rely on God, just as he had learned to do. Obviously, David’s wisdom brought about its desired fruit. When God confronted Solomon in a dream and offered him his heart’s desire, his number one request was for wisdom and understanding.

SOLOMON’S SUBTLE EXCEPTION
From the beginning of Solomon’s reign, we are overwhelmed with the grandeur of his work. Often that can be the only focus of the information we are given concerning his rise to power. But there are two other facts that we would do well to pay attention to. They may not seem like much now, but they will be vital to our understanding of the upcoming events.

The first detail of Solomon’s life that we will want to tuck away in our memory banks for future reference is that “Solomon loved the Lord, walking in the statues of his father David, EXCEPT he sacrificed and burned incense on the high places.” (I Kings 3:3) God was quite precise as to where incense was to be offered. There was only one altar that had His sanction - the golden altar that resided in the Tabernacle.

Why would Solomon bend the rules? The answer to that riddle is found in the other piece of data that we should retain.

And his house where he was to live, the other court inward from the hall, was of the same workmanship. He also made a house like this hall for Pharaoh’s daughter, whom Solomon had married. (I Kings 7:8)

It doesn’t take much research to discover that Solomon entered into a marriage alliance with Pharaoh of Egypt. Not only did he marry his daughter to seal the alliance, he showered her with extravagance. His actions reveal an attitude of heart that will later be spelled out in words; Solomon loved foreign women. From the very beginning, their effect on him is evident. Burning incense on high places would be something common to the worship of pagan gods. Although, in the beginning, Solomon offered his gifts to YHWH, it still shows his propensity to compromise. His compromise was not to whom he offered it, but how he offered it. Even Solomon found it acceptable to conform his worship to the ways of the world!

It is sad to see how many Christians are willing to use books, movies and media personalities as the source of truth, while their Bibles sit on their shelves collecting dust. They don’t even have to bother bringing them to church any more. It’s not that the points that are being made in the sermons are evil or total heresy; it’s that they are raised higher than what God did sanction – His Word!!! I guarantee you that if you were to hand a Bible to a vast majority of people and ask them to look something up, they would be in a quandary to know whether to look in the Old or New Covenant! Obadiah? Where’s that??? The beautiful sound of rustling leaves of Bible pages as worshippers followed the speaker on his Bible trail have been silenced by modern technology. People who only opened their Bibles on Sunday mornings, now don’t open them at all! In the pages of the Book, Solomon continues to stand as an example that compromise that starts in subtle ways can end up in major disaster! It in not only the “Who” that can be important, but the “how.”

SOLOMON THE BUILDER
Seven years from the time he started the building of the Temple it reached it’s completion. But this was not the only structure Solomon was known for. His building of his palace took more than twice as long and was equally as grand. But it didn’t stop there! As we continue on, we find that besides the cities he constructed for his chariots and the cities he rebuilt, he also built a beautiful palace for the daughter of Pharaoh. Although Solomon had MANY wives, the daughter of Pharaoh held preeminence. I find it strange that she is never mentioned by name, merely by her relationship to Pharaoh.

The Word gives us a clear list of Solomon’s building accomplishments. They included:
Palace of the Forest of Lebanon
Hall of Pillars
Hall of Justice – (the throne room)
His living quarters
Palace for Pharaoh’s daughter

We end the week with a detailed description of the Temple furnishings and the bringing of the Ark into the Temple. Before David brought the Ark to Jerusalem, he prepared a place for it. Before Solomon brought the Ark to the Temple, it had to be completed. The Temple went from glory to glory through the years of its construction until the day it was presented to God as the place for Him to bring His kingdom reign. Ephesians 2:19-22 says,

So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow-citizens with the saints, and are of God’s household, having been built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus Himself being the corner stone, in whom the whole building, being fitted together is growing into a holy temple in the Lord; in whom you also are being built together into a dwelling of God in the Spirit.

And like the building of the Temple, we too are going through the phases of being changed from glory to glory.

But we all, with unveiled face beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as from the Lord the Spirit. II Corinthians 3:18


At the completion of this magnificent edifice and during its dedication, Solomon reminds the people of God’s word.

“Since the day that I brought My people from the land of Egypt, I did not choose a city out of all the tribes of Israel in which to build a house that My name might be there, or did I choose any man for a leader over My people Israel; but I have chosen Jerusalem that My name might be there, and I have chosen David to be over My people Israel.” II Chronicles 6:5-6

Solomon reminds them that this work began with his father David. God didn’t just choose anyone or any place; He chose his father and his father’s city. The baton had been passed, David’s dream of a house for God now complete! God fulfills His promises!!!

May we continue to learn from the lives of David and Solomon, and may we be careful when it is our turn to pass or receive the baton God has given us!

August 24-28

A psalm of Heman
Psalm 88
A psalm of Ethan
Psalm 89
A psalm of Asaph
Psalm 50




Hi faithful travelers. I’d like to introduce you to my friends. They are each psalmists. Perhaps you already know about them, or maybe this is your first face-to-face meeting with them. You will hear some of their songs this week and it may help to understand their message if you are more familiar with who they are.

Our first piece of music comes from Heman. Let me tell you a bit about Heman. This powerful man holds an exalted place among the singers of Israel. His official role as a leader among the musicians began when David brought the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem and placed it in the tabernacle he had erected for it.

Now these are those whom David appointed over the service of song in the house of the Lord, after the ark rested there. I Chronicles 6:31

When we examine his background, it is not too difficult to see how Heman rose to this place of prominence. You already know his grandfather.

These are those who served with their sons; from the sons of the Kohathites were Heman the singer, the son of Joel, the son of Samuel. I Chronicles 6:33

The Samuel referenced is none other than the one who anointed Saul and David. Thank God that Heman chose to walk the way of his grandfather, and not the way of his father. You may recall that his father Joel was not a very godly man. Here, let me refresh your memory.

And it came about when Samuel was old that he appointed his sons judges over Israel. Now the name of his first-born was Joel, and the name of his second, Abijah; they were judging in Beersheba. His sons, however, did not walk in his ways, but turned aside after dishonest gain and took bribes and perverted justice. I Samuel 8:1-3

Obviously Samuel had a direct affect on Heman. What an encouragement to grandparents who may feel they missed the mark with their children. God is the God of the second chance, and grandchildren give us another opportunity to make a difference.

Keep in mind that Samuel was head of the school of the prophets. An important part of the ministry of prophecy was the ministry of music. You may recall Samuel’s words to Saul after he had anointed him.

And it shall be as soon as you have come there to the city, that you will meet a group of prophets coming down form the high place with harp, tambourine, flute, and a lyre before them, and they will be prophesying. I Samuel 10:8

Music and the stirring of the Spirit have always gone hand in hand. Who knows! Perhaps Heman, being one of the “sons of the prophets,” was among the group that day. It wouldn’t surprise me. One thing we know for sure is that Heman grew to understand the power of music and prophecy. He was not only musically talented; he was prophetically gifted.

More, David and the commanders of the army set apart for the service some of the sons of Asaph and of Heman and of Jeduthun, who were to prophesy with lyres, harps, and cymbals; (I Chronicles 25:1)

As I listen to Heman’s song, I hear a distant echo of David voice. Did Heman accompany David in the wilderness? When David fled Saul, he made a straight path for Samuel. Could it be that after Saul had the priests at Nob slain and after Samuel died, Heman felt the safest place to be was with David? His Psalm leads me to believe that he endured the same rejection as David and that he experienced it from a young age. David knew all that this man had been through, he knew his talents and his gifts, and he knew his integrity. And one of his songs made it in the favorite psalms hymnal!

The second gentleman I would like you to become acquainted with is Ethan. Unlike Heman’s song, which is quite serious and foreboding, Ethan’s song is a declaration of God’s power, majesty, and ability. Ethan was highly regarded by his fellow kinsman and as a result, he was appointed as one of the three chief musicians.

Then David spoke to the chiefs of the Levites to appoint their relatives the singers, with instruments of music, harps, lyres, loud-sounding cymbals, to raise sounds of joy. So the Levites appointed Heman the son of Joel, and from his relatives, Asaph the son of Berechiah; and from the sons of Merari their relatives, Ethan the son of Kushiah (I Chronicles 15:16-17) So the singers, Heman, Asaph, and Ethan were appointed to sound aloud cymbals of bronze; (I Chronicles 15:19)

Although I can’t tell you much about Ethan’s background, I can tell you about his reputation. He, like Heman, was very wise. When God speaks of the greatness of Solomon’s wisdom we are told:

And Solomon’s wisdom surpassed the wisdom of all the sons of the east and all the wisdom of Egypt. For he was wiser than all men, than Ethan the Ezrahite, Heman, Calcol and Darda, the sons of Mahol and his fame was known in all the surrounding nations. (I Kings 4:30-31)

The words of his Psalm quickly identify why he had such great wisdom. Ethan perceived the greatness of who God is!

Last, but certainly not least, I would like to introduce Asaph. Not counting David, the most published composer in our Psalms Hymnal is Asaph. Twelve of the Psalms are attributed to him. Once again, we find that he had a close relationship with David. On the day the Ark was brought into Jerusalem, we are told:

Then on that day David first assigned Asaph and his relatives to give thanks to the Lord. (I Chronicles 16:7)

David had such honor for Asaph that he left him and his relatives in charge of the music ministry before the Ark.

So he left Asaph and his relatives there before the ark of the covenant of the Lord, to minister before the ark continually, as every day’s work required. (I Chronicles 16:37)

Asaph had an appreciation for a variety of music and instruments, but his gifted drumming is deserving of honorable mention!

Asaph the chief, and second to him Zechariah, then Jeiel, Shemir-amoth, Jehiel, Mattithiah, Eliab, Benaniah, Obed-edom, and Jeiel with musical instruments, harps, lyres; also Asaph played loud-sounding cymbals, (I Chronicles 16:5)

As I mentioned concerning Heman, Asaph was also one who prophesied with his music.

There are other musicians also mentioned in David’s list of appointees, and in time we will meet others whose psalms made it into our Biblical hymnal, but why are Heman, Asaph and Ethan mentioned together as leaders. The answer is really quite simple. The Levitical priesthood was broken down into three divisions:

1. The descendants of Kohath – headed by Heman (I Chronicles 6:33)
2. The descendants of Gershom, - headed by Asaph (I Chronicles 6:39-43)
3. The descendants of Merari – headed by Ethan (I Chronicles 6:44-47)

Thus the entire spectrum of Levites was represented in music and prophecy with regard to the ministry before the Ark, and eventually the Temple.

As you listen to their songs, open your heart to hear the Temple choir and orchestra as they sing many of the words that are also in your heart. And always remember, we walk to the beat of a different drum!