Let’s meet Ezra, a priest, a scribe, and the leader of the second group of exiles from Babylon back to Jerusalem. Ezra rebuked the people for intermarrying and worshiping false gods. He wanted them to know the Word of God is always right and that following Him should be our purpose regardless of how hard it might be.

The rebuilding of the temple was halted for 15 years by opposition from the people of land who bribed councilors to frustrate the purpose. However, when  building resumed, the King of Persia supplied the materials needed! What a powerful lesson on trusting God’s timing.

“And I, Artaxerxes the king, make a decree to all the treasurers in the province Beyond the River: Whatever Ezra the priest, the scribe of the Law of the God of heaven, requires of you, let it be done with all diligence…” 7:21

Ezra's words reminded the people God was responsible.

“Blessed be the Lord, the God of our fathers, who put such a thing as this into the heart of the king, to beautify the house of the Lord that is in Jerusalem… I took courage, for the hand of the Lord my God was on me…” 7:27-28

Won’t you join us as we reflect and connect with this amazing text!