TODAY IN THE WORD

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Jeremiah 29:1-14
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, . . . “ plans to give you hope and a future.” - Jeremiah 29:11
TODAY IN THE WORD
If you want to study leadership, hundreds of books have been written asserting to offer the keys to successful leadership. While some titles offer helpful ideas or practical suggestions, God’s Word gives believers the best insights into what it means to be a godly leader. In our study this month, we’re going to examine the books of Ezra and Nehemiah, both of which focus on leaders who were committed to following God.

These books, which were originally one book or scroll, recount events following the Exile of Judah in Babylon in 586 B.C. Prior to the Exile, the prophet Jeremiah had warned Judah of impending doom if they did not repent and return to the Lord in obedience. In addition to his warnings, however, the Lord also sent a gracious word of hope. Jerusalem would fall. The people would be captured and sent to Babylon. But God would not forget them.

Our passage today is the word of promise that God gave to His people decades before the events of Ezra and Nehemiah. At this time, most of the high-ranking officials and high-profile citizens had already been taken into captivity (vv. 1-2). Jeremiah, who still remained in Jerusalem, sent this letter to give instructions to God’s people during their time in Babylon. Even though the Exile had begun, God demonstrated His love and care for His people by continuing to speak to them through His prophet.

This letter encouraged the people to settle into Babylon, continuing family traditions and contributing to the prosperity of their conqueror (vv. 4-7). The people should not listen to false prophets who would urge them to resist their captivity or rebel against Babylon (vv. 8-9). They didn’t need to try to escape, because God was promising to bring them back to their land—He was even giving them the timeframe! (v. 10).

The final verses of our reading contain one of the beautiful promises of God. His people were suffering the consequences of their rebellion, but He still loved them. He was still faithful. He still had plans to prosper them and give them hope and a future.

APPLY THE WORD
Jeremiah 29:11 has encouraged the people of God for thousands of years: “For I know the plans I have for you . . . plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” If your future seems uncertain or you feel on the verge of losing hope, commit this verse to memory as a way to remember the faithful promises of our faithful God. No matter what you’re going through today, God guarantees your future.

[david749]

Thanks Roger and have a pleasant week.     David

[Soldier4Christ]

Thank you and may you have pleasant week in the Lord.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Ezra 1
In order to fulfill the word of the LORD spoken by Jeremiah, the LORD moved the heart of Cyrus king of Persia. - Ezra 1:1
TODAY IN THE WORD
King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon controlled a vast empire and enriched his capital with captive peoples and looted treasure. He had been warned in a dream, interpreted by Daniel, to repent of his sins, but instead he proclaimed: “Is this not the great Babylon I have built as the royal residence, by my mighty power and for the glory of my majesty?” God responded with judgment for his pride. Only after his extraordinary humiliation did Nebuchadnezzar respond: “Then I praised the Most High; I honored and glorified him who lives forever” (see Dan. 4:28-37).

The Babylonian kingdom was soon overtaken by the Persian Empire (see Dan. 5:28). In contrast to Nebuchadnezzar, King Cyrus of Persia exhibited a measure of humility about his position. Here in the opening verses of the book of Ezra, we see a key theme emerge: Leaders are important—but only if they allow God to work through them.

Notice throughout today’s reading how often the text describes God working in the hearts of leaders. First, “the LORD moved the heart of Cyrus” in order to fulfill His promise, which we read about yesterday (v. 1). Historians have said that the Persians, particularly Cyrus, were interested in encouraging their conquered peoples to retain their native religion, assuming that this would keep them happier and less likely to revolt. Scripture provides us with the behind-the-scenes peek, however—whatever political motives Cyrus might have had, it was the work of God that prompted him to make the proclamation to initiate the return of Jewish exiles to Jerusalem (vv. 2-4; see Isa. 44:28).

God worked through Cyrus to fulfill His promise, and He also moved the hearts of the tribal leaders, priests, and Levites to desire to return to rebuild the temple (v. 5). Remember that the people had been exiled for several generations; many of them had extended families, good jobs, and comfortable lives throughout the empire. A spiritual prompting made them willing to embrace the arduous task of repairing their decimated spiritual center of worship.

APPLY THE WORD
This chapter concludes with a list of items that Cyrus returned to the Jews. We might be tempted to skim or disregard the lists in this book as irrelevant to our contemporary devotional life. But it reminds us that the Lord cares about details, and He provided for the practical needs to accomplish this task. He restored some of the treasure to His people and equipped them for their journey. When the Lord calls you, He will also equip you to obey Him!

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Ezra 2
Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give . . . for God loves a cheerful giver. - 2 Corinthians 9:7
TODAY IN THE WORD
The test of commitment lies not in starting out but in following through when difficulties arise. We don’t evaluate the strength of a marriage on the wedding day—it’s only possible after we see how a couple respond to adversity and the passing of time. We don’t award medals for athletes who begin a race; they have to earn them by completing the distance despite their burning lungs and quivering legs.

One theme of Ezra and Nehemiah is the test of commitment when tested by opposition and challenges. In our reading yesterday we saw that the tribal and religious leaders followed the prompting of the Lord to return to Jerusalem. Today we see the first step of their follow-through on that commitment.

The list of the people who returned might cause our eyes to glaze over. So many strange names, and seemingly irrelevant list of numbers! But interesting information is embedded in this list that gives us clues about the important message communicated to us through the book of Ezra. Notice the main categories described after the geographical list: the priests, the Levites, the singers, the gatekeepers of the temple, the temple servants and servants of Solomon (vv. 36, 40, 41, 42, 43, 55). This return to Jerusalem had spiritual significance, indicated by the list of religious leaders. Throughout the Exile, God had preserved the spiritual leadership for His people.

The importance of spiritual leadership is highlighted further by the incident in verses 59 through 63. As the book of Ezra will stress repeatedly, the purity of God’s people is vitally important for their obedience and relationship with God. With no family records to verify their claims of Jewish or priestly identity, this group was instructed not to participate as religious leaders until God’s divinely appointed tools for seeking wisdom could be used by a priest (v. 63; cf. Ex. 28:30; Num. 27:21).

Finally, the chapter concludes with their arrival in Jerusalem, and the “heads of families gave freewill offerings toward the rebuilding of the house of God” (v. 68). It was another step on their journey of commitment.

APPLY THE WORD
Most of us are better at starting something than we are at finishing. We need only look at half-finished craft projects, rarely used gym memberships, or list of friends whom we need to call. When it comes to our spiritual commitments, our continuing obedience reveals the state of our hearts. If you need to renew your journey, remember that the Lord equips you and take action today—whether it’s prayer, serving someone in need, or perhaps giving generously—to live for Him.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Ezra 3:1-6
Despite their fear of the peoples around them, they built the altar . . . to the LORD. - Ezra 3:3
TODAY IN THE WORD
When Jacob and his sons went to Egypt to escape the famine in the land God had promised to Abraham, the Lord told him that his descendants would one day return to the land of promise (Gen. 46:3-4; 50:24-25). God kept this promise, miraculously leading the people of Israel from Pharaoh’s bondage. Yet on the verge of entering the Promised Land, the people balked. They heard the report from ten of the spies that focused on the dangerous inhabitants. They rebelled against Moses, preferring to base their decision on fear of others’ power rather than faith in God’s promise (see Num. 13:28-14:4).

Centuries later, the people of Israel were again returning to their land. Again God had kept His promise. And again, dangerous people inhabited the land. Anyone familiar with the history of Israel would wonder: What will they do this time? Will they respond in fear or in faith?

Notice in our passage today that the Israelites still feared the peoples who were in the land (v. 3). As we will see this month,this fear was not without reason. But they did not focus on their fear or their foes—they responded with worship. The leadership of Zerubbabel is introduced here, and he led the people in starting right away to rebuild the “altar of the God of Israel” (v. 2).

Although the temple had not yet been rebuilt, Zerubbabel and the people didn’t use that to excuse themselves from worship. The tone of the text indicates that they eagerly hurried to complete the altar so that they could resume worship. Obedience and worship are integrally connected throughout Scripture, including in the book of Ezra. The people of God exhibit their identity through worship offered to the Lord and obedience to His decrees. The specific offerings are listed in verses 3 through 5, and notice the refrain describing them: “in accordance with what is written in the Law of Moses,” “required number,” and “appointed sacred festivals” (vv. 2, 4, 5). The people took God’s Word seriously, and they acted in faith and obedience.

APPLY THE WORD
The Lord does not promise us a life free from opposition or obstacles, but He does promise to never leave us or forsake us (Deut. 31:6; Heb. 13:5). He doesn’t guarantee that we will never have people or situations to fear, but He does promise that He will reward our faith (1 Cor. 15:58). If you are facing a frightening situation, commit the outcome to God and choose to worship and obey Him. Offer Him your praises and service, knowing that His Word will never fail.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Ezra 3:7-13
They sang to the LORD: “He is good; his love toward Israel endures forever.” - Ezra 3:11
TODAY IN THE WORD
Amish communities are known for the practice of barn raising. Within just a few days, the community gathers to build an entire barn for one family, usually in response to a natural disaster that destroyed a barn or sometimes to assist a new family in the community. Typically, participation is mandatory—everyone, even children, has a role to ensure a successful barn raising.

In our reading today, we see the continuing leadership role of Zerubbabel to direct the rebuilding of the temple, and the entire community needed to participate to make this project of obedience to God a success. Masons and carpenters had to be paid, and a trading arrangement needed to made with Tyre and Sidon (v. 7). Next, Zerubbabel ensured that diligent work on the temple foundation progressed (vv. 8-9).

The skilled workers built the physical foundation of the new temple, and the priests and Levites provided the appropriate spiritual context for this occasion. As we saw yesterday, again they were careful to obediently follow the instructions for praise; obedience and worship continue to be linked (v. 10). Not only did the people offer sacrifices, they also offered shouts and songs of praise to the Lord in recognition of the significance of this new temple foundation. Their praise acknowledged the love and faithfulness of God who keeps His promises (v. 11).

The older generation, those who had seen Solomon’s temple, had been carried into exile, and now had returned to see the new foundation, wept aloud (v. 12). Some think that these were tears of sadness from comparing the new temple unfavorably to the glory of the old one. Others see the weeping as an emotional expression of amazement: after seeing the destruction of Solomon’s temple, this older generation was overwhelmed at God’s provision to allow them to see the construction begin on a new temple. It’s clear that this foundation produced a tremendous physical, emotional, and spiritual response. A hint for the events to come is at the end of the chapter: “The sound was heard far away” (v. 13). When we respond to the work of God, others will notice.

APPLY THE WORD
This has important lessons for us today. First, we each have different gifts and roles in order to accomplish the work of God (see 1 Cor. 12:4-11). We need not be jealous of the technical skills or spiritual leadership of others—every member of the community of faith is necessary. Second, our different gifts all come together in unity to praise the Lord for what He has done. Here is the spirit of true unity: recognizing the goodness and glory of God and responding in praise and obedience.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Ezra 4
Do not turn me over to the desire of my foes, for false witnesses rise up against me. - Psalm 27:12
TODAY IN THE WORD
Christ Liberty Family Life Center in Avondale Estates, Georgia, was a church focused on serving the poor, providing youth ministry, and worshiping in their leased building. They were forced to leave their building just a few months later, however, when the city enforced a zoning ordinance requiring churches to have a minimum of three acres of property. Without a suitable building, tutoring classes and youth ministry had to be canceled, and attendance dwindled as the church was forced to move from one temporary location to another.

Our text today depicts how difficult it can be to carry out the Lord’s work in the face of opposition. As we saw, others will notice when we praise and serve God—but they won’t always be happy about it.

The news of the rebuilding of the temple was met with hostility by the people living in the land, mostly various tribes who had been resettled into Samaria during the Assyrian Empire after Israel had been taken captive (see 2 Kings 17:24-41). Their claim to worship God was true; the problem was that they mixed the worship of the Lord with worship of their own gods (2 Kings 17:33). Zerubbabel understood the spiritual stakes. They could not dilute or defile the true worship of the true God with pagan rituals and sacrifices (v. 3).

The peoples of the land revealed their true motives by their actions. Instead of a desire to participate in worship, they were opposed to the return of Israelites, the restoration of the temple, and the reassertion of Jewish faith and identity. Since their first plan to corrupt the building of the temple failed, they turned to another strategy: political and legal manipulation. They sent letters to the Persian monarchs accusing the Jews of insubordination (v. 15). They preyed on that most sensitive subject for a ruler: his pocketbook. They alleged that a re-established Jewish presence would undermine royal revenues and even imperial control of the region (vv. 13, 16).

The ploy succeeded. The Persian king ordered the work to stop. The Samarian peoples enforced the decree. As a result, construction of the temple ceased for over a decade.

APPLY THE WORD
This low point in the story should encourage us—because even today, we will face opposition when we are serving and praising God. This is not retaliation for obnoxious provocation; this is spiritual resistance to the work of the Lord. When these times come, we can take comfort knowing that we are not the first of God’s people to experience opposition. Reading the psalms is especially helpful as they cry out for God’s righteousness, justice, and protection to prevail.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Haggai 1
Now Haggai the prophet . . . prophesied to the Jews in Judah and Jerusalem in the name of the God of Israel. - Ezra 5:1
TODAY IN THE WORD
Throughout history, the proclamation of God’s Word has transformed individuals and societies. Preaching in the Great Awakening led to an outpouring of conversions as well as witness to both free and enslaved African Americans. The first Black Baptist churches were formed as a result. The revivals in the United States in the early nineteenth century evangelized Native Americans and also encouraged prison reform and care for the mentally ill. The powerful preaching of D. L. Moody led many to salvation and prompted others to serve the urban poor and needy.

The prophet Haggai had a message from the Lord that His people needed to hear. As we’ll see today and tomorrow, this faithful proclamation had dramatic results for the Jews’ commitment to their call to rebuild the temple.

When this word from God came, construction on the temple had been idle for about fourteen years. In the meantime, however, the people had been busily working—not on the Lord’s house, but on their own (v. 9). Scripture indicates that these had been difficult years. Harvests had been sparse, and the people were hungry and disappointed (vv. 6-11). It appears that the people had not given much thought to the lapsed construction of the temple, but had spent a great deal of effort on their homes and material possessions (v. 4).

Haggai urged the people to “give careful thought to your ways” (vv. 5, 7). Again we see the Lord’s work in the hearts of Zerubbabel and the rest of the people (v. 14). They had not been actively rebellious against the command of God, but had passively drifted away from their commitment. When they heard this message, they recognized the truth of what Haggai said and were stirred to action.

Notice the time frame in this passage: within a matter of weeks after Haggai delivered the word of the Lord, the people had resumed work on rebuilding the temple (vv. 1, 15). When the Word is faithfully proclaimed, and the Lord opens hearts to respond, the work of God springs into action.

APPLY THE WORD
Not only did the Lord instruct the people to turn their attention to His temple, He also gave them this assurance: “I am with you” (v. 13). When our loving, faithful God calls us back to obedience, He reminds us of His protection and presence. He never sends us out to face opposition alone; He calls us to walk with Him. Thank Him today for the ministry of His Word in your life, for His help in maintaining the right priorities, and for His never-failing presence.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Ezra 5
Let a search be made in the royal archives . . . to see if King Cyrus did in fact issue a decree to rebuild this house of God. - Ezra 5:17
TODAY IN THE WORD
On March 6 we shared the story of Christ Liberty Family Life Center in Avondale Estates, Georgia, a church forced from its building because of zoning ordinances. Here’s more of the story. In response to the city’s action, the church filed suit in federal court alleging that the zoning ordinance, which applied only to religious groups, infringed on religious freedom. In August 2010, a federal judge ruled that the city must permit the church to have access to their facilities while the case is heard.

The Samarian people thought that they could use political and legal action to halt the building of the temple and the resurgence of Jewish faith and presence. As we’ll see today and tomorrow, God can work through government to protect His people and preserve His work.

The chapter begins by recognizing the prophetic work of Zechariah and Haggai, which we examined in more detail yesterday. No sooner had rebuilding begun, however, when government officials appeared, demanding to know who had authorized this construction project (v. 3). They send a report to the Persian king Darius about the matter.

Several things were different on this occasion than fourteen years earlier. First, the Jewish leaders seemed to understand that they had God’s protection, and they did not respond out of fear (v. 5). They tell the government officials the truth about Cyrus’s decree and their authorization to rebuild (vv. 11-16). Second, the rebuilding work does not cease while they wait to hear back from Darius. In fact, the description given by Tattenai and the other officials indicated that Zerubbabel and the people had taken the message of Haggai to heart. Not only did they continue to work with diligence, but they were also “making rapid progress” (v. 8).

The report from the hostile Samarians referenced the rebellious nature of Jerusalem before its destruction by Nebuchadnezzar in 586 B.C., which the royal archives confirmed. But this report referenced the more recent decree by Cyrus in 538 B.C, which according to Persian law must be honored.

APPLY THE WORD
We’ve seen how God can work through political leaders and how the government and legal system can affect the people of God. Take time to pray specifically and by name for each of your elected officials. Pray that they will be instruments of God’s will in their city, state, and nation. Pray that their hearts will be open to the direction of God, even if—like Cyrus—they aren’t believers. Pray, too, that you will demonstrate a Christian attitude and response toward leaders.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Ezra 6:1-12
May God, who has caused his Name to dwell there, overthrow any king or people who lifts a hand to change this decree. - Ezra 6:12
TODAY IN THE WORD
Part of the delight in reading the book of Esther comes from the wonderful use of irony. Haman thought he would manipulate the king into bestowing great honor upon him—but the honor went instead to his archrival, Mordecai (Esther 6). Then Haman’s plot to destroy Mordecai and all the Jewish people resulted in his destruction on his own gallows, the promotion of Mordecai, and the protection of the Jews (Esther 7-8).

Our passage contains another account of irony in Scripture, and it’s notable that this isn’t merely a reversal of fortune or expectation. It’s an example of God going above and beyond for His people.

In response to the request from the local governors, King Darius ordered a search for the alleged decree from Cyrus that granted permission for the temple to be rebuilt. As Zerubbabel had said, the scroll was indeed found, and it matched their account of events (vv. 1-5).

At this point, Darius could have sent a notice to Tattenai and the local governors that, in fact, the Jews were correct about the decree of Cyrus. He could have simply instructed the officials to leave Zerubbabel alone to continue the construction of the temple, as he stressed in verses 6 and 7. But the decree continued on. Not only did the Lord halt the opposition, He went above and beyond to ensure that His people were provided for.

Darius commanded that the governors pay for the temple construction expenses out of their own treasuries (v. 8). They also had to provide the materials for the sacrifices, from the animals to the drink and grain offerings, directly facilitating the ability of the Jews to worship God (v. 9). Of course this was motivated by Darius’s own self-interest—he welcomed prayers on his behalf to any and every deity his subjects might worship (v. 10). But despite Darius’s motives, God was divinely superintending every step.

Tattenai might have thought his appeal to Darius would be the end of temple construction. But God used this to reverse the situation from oppression to protection, and then even beyond, to provision.

APPLY THE WORD
In the middle of struggles and heartaches, it’s comforting to know that the Lord knows the whole story: beginning, middle, and end. He understands your sorrow, and He also prepares your joy. You see the past and the present, but He also knows the plans He has for your future (Jer. 29:11). Just as He was faithful to His people to protect and provide for them, He will be faithful for you.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Ezra 6:13-22
Then the people of Israel . . . celebrated the dedication of the house of God with joy. - Ezra 6:16
TODAY IN THE WORD
When the Hyatt Regency McCormick Place hotel opened in 1998, lavish celebrations commemorated the event. Invitation-only parties and a ribbon-cutting ceremony with Chicago dignitaries signaled that construction had been completed and the hotel was open for business.

In today’s passage, we have the description of the completion of another construction project—the temple of God in Jerusalem was finally finished. A great celebration was held, but instead of parties and celebrities, the event featured worship and an acknowledgment of God’s goodness.

The governors of the area obeyed the decree of Darius, and the next four years offered great physical and spiritual blessing to the exiles in Judah. They were continuing to obey God’s command to build His house, and they were blessed by the spiritual leadership of Haggai and Zechariah (v. 14). After the many descriptions of disobedience and turmoil, these verses hearten and encourage us that seasons of obedience and blessing do happen for God’s people!

Notice three related themes in the account of their celebration: joy, obedience, and worship. The dedication of the temple was an occasion for joy (v. 16). But the people didn’t assume that they deserved the credit for this construction project. They were careful to follow “what is written in the Book of Moses” and order their worship through offerings and the installation of their religious leaders (vv. 17-18).

The people observed Passover, and they coupled their ceremonial practice with obedient lifestyles—separating themselves from the “unclean practices of their Gentile neighbors” (v. 21). The word joy appears two more times, and again we see the relationship between joy, obedience, and worship. They were obeying the Lord’s instructions for their relationship with Him, they were committed to His worship, and they were filled with joy (v. 22).

Finally, notice how God received the glory. He had changed the heart of the king. He had assisted them with building. The recognition of who God is and what He has done will result in joy, obedience, and worship.

APPLY THE WORD
Has God done something wonderful in your life? Rejoice and praise Him! Has God been faithful to you? Obey His commands and follow Him! Has God proved Himself full of love, mercy, provision, and protection? Worship Him and give Him the glory! Our lack of joy, obedience, and worship always stems from a failure to focus on who God is and what He has done. When we think of the goodness of Jesus and what He’s done for us, we will respond with a life of praise.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Ezra 7
Ezra had devoted himself to the study and observance of the Law of the LORD. - Ezra 7:10
TODAY IN THE WORD
The explorer David Livingstone was commissioned by the Royal Geographical Society as Her Majesty’s Consul for the East Coast of Africa. The British authorities hoped that Livingstone’s discoveries would benefit their trading access and acquisitions, but Livingstone had spiritual interests, not just geographic ones. A committed Christian, he believed that his gifts as an explorer could aid the spread of missions work in Africa. And in fact, his work opened up much of central Africa to missionaries who opened schools, founded hospitals, and shared the gospel.

Sometimes God works both through the tainted motives of rulers and the talents of His followers, to accomplish His will. Today’s passage introduces Ezra, and we learn something significant about worldly and godly leadership.

This text opens with the phrase, “After these things” (v. 1). The Persian Empire left a tremendous historical record, and most scholars conclude that the phrase captures a time lapse of some fifty years between chapters 6 and 7. As we transition to Ezra’s ministry, we read of his godly heritage, verifying that he was a legitimate priest from Aaron’s line (vv. 1-5).

Ezra certainly didn’t coast on his family background. His commitment to the Word of the Lord is repeated several times: he was “well versed in the Law,” and he “had devoted himself to the study and observance of the Law” (vv. 6, 10). He was respected by the king, blessed by God, and dedicated to knowing and following the Lord’s teaching.

The commission by Artaxerxes reveals the provision for the work in Jerusalem that we’ve seen several times from the Persian kings. And Artaxerxes, like Darius, was motivated by his own self-interest. He wanted protection from every deity he thought he could please (v. 23). Worldly leadership views power as how much stuff it controls—how much money, how many people, or how many weapons. But Ezra wasn’t deceived by worldly leadership. He knew the source of his protection; he knew that ultimately God worked through this Persian leader to accomplish His own will (vv. 27-28).

APPLY THE WORD
Ezra understood that godly leadership is submission to the call of God. Therefore he could say, “I took courage” (v. 28). No matter what your gifts and talents are, you have been called to serve the Lord. And where God has called, He will also provide. That means that you can serve with confidence. Have you resisted “taking courage” because you were distracted by worldly leaders? Focus on what God has given you instead, knowing that no service for Him will be wasted.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Ezra 8
The gracious hand of our God is on everyone who looks to him. - Ezra 8:22
TODAY IN THE WORD
The three young men had every advantage—they were from elite families, handsome, smart, well-educated, cultured, and well-liked. No wonder they were fast-tracked into leadership positions, where they seemed destined for success. Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah were also hard-working, but they drew the line at one order: they would not bow down and worship the statue of the king. They placed their trust in God above loyalty to the king, and God rewarded the three—better known by their Babylonian names Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego—with a dramatic rescue from Nebuchadnezzar’s fiery furnace (see Daniel 1; 3).

It’s likely that Ezra knew the story of his Jewish ancestors and their choice to trust the power of God over the power of the king. In our passage, we see that Ezra was also cultured, educated, and respected by the monarch. He had been given a royal commission to journey to Jerusalem. But Ezra knew that his ultimate protection came from God, and he put more faith in prayer to a gracious God than confidence in the power of a fickle king.

Ezra left Persia with a group of over one thousand people (vv. 1-14), but he soon realized that he didn’t have any Levites in his company, required for conducting appropriate worship according to the Law (vv. 15-20). Once he had demonstrated fidelity to God’s instructions, Ezra told the people to fast and pray for safety on their journey.

Notice that Ezra had the option of requesting protection from the king. But he understood that the request would undermine his testimony of faith in God’s character and work (v. 22). Darius most likely would have provided the necessary troops to accompany the large group of Jews. But the bottom line came down to faith: did Ezra have the faith to back up his claims about God? Or would he put his trust in the soldiers and horses of the Persian Empire?

The decision to trust the Lord and commit their protection to Him led to a further testimony about His goodness: “He answered our prayer . . . and he protected us from enemies and bandits along the way” (vv. 23, 31). Yet again, God proved Himself faithful.

APPLY THE WORD
Ezra was not being foolhardy here, taking an unnecessary risk and claiming that God would protect him (see Matt. 4:5-7). Instead, he was refusing to put himself in the king’s debt in a way that would compromise his testimony about God. Whom do we trust? Do we put more faith in politicians, doctors, or bankers than we do the Lord? Are we more willing to fret about our health or investments than we are to fast and pray? We can trust in God, because He alone is always faithful.

[Soldier4Christ]

Read: Ezra 9
Who can stand when he appears? For he will be like a refiner’s fire. - Malachi 3:2
TODAY IN THE WORD
In 1995, 150 years after its founding, the Southern Baptist Convention released a statement of confession, grief, and apology for its role in promoting slavery, segregation, and barriers to fellowship with African Americans. The resolution said, “We lament and repudiate historic acts of evil such as slavery from which we continue to reap a bitter harvest,” and asked “forgiveness from our African-American brothers and sisters.” It committed “to eradicate racism in all its forms from Southern Baptist life and ministry.”

When sin permeates the work and ministry of the people of God, deep repentance and confession is called for. Ezra demonstrated spiritual leadership by humbling himself to intercede on behalf of the people of Judah.

Except for the pause in building the temple (see Ezra 4), the account of the return from Exile had been moving along beautifully—the people were obedient, God was faithful, the Persian kings had offered provisions, and the Jewish leaders had followed the Law. But now Ezra learned that an insidious sin had infected the people: they had intermarried with the surrounding peoples (vv. 1-2).

The core problem was not racial impurity (see Josh. 6:25; Ruth 4). Rather, the problem was religious impurity (vv. 11-12). Intermarriage meant that the people began to blend worship of the true God with pagan practices, including child sacrifice (see 2 Kings 17:17). The Lord had repeatedly warned His people to resist cultural pressure to adopt sinful values and had even sent them into exile; yet here they were again, falling back into the same patterns of sin (v. 7).

No wonder Ezra mourned. The heartbreak palpitates through every verse of his prayer. Ezra knew the history of his people and the character of God. The Lord had restored them to their land and to their worship—and again, they had sinned against Him. There can be no bargain, no negotiation, no excuses. Ezra simply wept at the sin of the people and acknowledged the righteousness of God (v. 15). His justice is like a refiner’s fire; how could they stand in His presence (cf. Mal. 3:2)?

APPLY THE WORD
Our culture promotes meaningless apologies: “I’m sorry if you took that the wrong way”; “I apologize if anyone was hurt”; “Mistakes were made.” The reality of our sinfulness and God’s holiness doesn’t allow wiggle room for insincere confessions like, “God, I’m sorry if I sinned in some way.” When confronted with the reality of sinful actions and attitudes, our only response should be like Ezra, to throw ourselves before the Lord in repentance and confession, knowing that He is gracious (v. 8).