Read Ezra 6 – 8
For upon the first day of the first month began he to go up from Babylon, and on the first day of the fifth month came he to Jerusalem, according to the good hand of his God upon him. For Ezra had prepared his heart to seek the law of the LORD, and to do it, and to teach in Israel statutes and judgments. Ezra 7:9-10 KJV
Ezra, who had been a captive in Babylon, was a scribe of God’s Word, the Law. He had requested of the king of Persia permission to lead a second group of Israelites back to Jerusalem. His request was granted, Ezra said, according the good hand of God. Three characteristics concerning how he prepared his heart are brought to our attention. First, he was determined to know God’s Word; he spent time in it in order to know it. Second, he was determined to obey God’s Word; to have God’s blessing he understood his life had to adjust to God’s Word. Third, he was determined to teach others the Word of God; he believed it had what they needed to change their lives. To know, do, and share God’s Word are the characteristics of a heart prepared to serve the Lord and be blessed by Him. Because Ezra prepared his heart, verse nine says the good hand of his God was upon Him.
Lord, I want to have a heart prepared to know, obey, and serve You. Help me be consistent in my own study of Your Word and its application to the way I live. I want to be a doer and not just a hearer of Your Word. Then help me accurately teach it to others that they also might have what they need to enjoy Your blessing.
A question to ponder through the day: What changes do I need to make to ensure I spend adequate time in God’s Word, applying it to the way I live, and sharing it with others?
