Today’s Chapters: Ezra 5-9
Pete’s Thoughts:
Ezra 5
The leaders in Israel sent a letter back to King Darius to have the articles for the temple sent to them. Darius had possession of these articles because they were apart of the loot that Nebuchadnezzar took from Jerusalem when he destroyed the temple. In order for worship to be properly restored, these articles were needed.
Ezra 6
It is evident that God was working in this situation to rebuild the temple. Darius not only found the decree made by the Cyrus concerning the articles, he declared that all other expenses for the rebuilding of the temple would be paid at the king’s expense.
Ezra 7
When Ezra set out for Jerusalem he had with him one of the most important documents he could carry. It was a letter from King Artaxerxes stating that anything that Ezra needed commanded was to be done in the King’s name and at his expense. This gave him the authority to cut through all the red tape that would have defeated the process of rebuilding the temple. Surely the heart of the king is in the Lord’s hand.
Ezra 8
There is a small sentence in verse 31 that is important but often overlooked. God gave them safety while traveling. Consider how much gold and silver these people were carrying. Any and all the thieves from 100 miles around would descend upon this group and rob them. Yet God provided protection for them and kept them safe on the road.
Ezra 9
Ezra was a righteous man of God who willingly interceded on behalf of his people. When we hear of someone who is in trouble or in need or prayer, do we just pass it by or do we care enough about them to take that matter to the Lord in prayer?
