| | | | The Gracious Hand of God - Ezra 7:8-10 Ezra was a man that lived during the time of the Jewish captivity in Babylon, and he was one of the men that played a leading role in bringing the Jews back to their homeland, and reestablishing the Jewish faith in Israel after seventy long years of captivity. In chapter seven we're told:
Ezra arrived in Jerusalem in August of that year. He had arranged to leave Babylon on April 8, the first day of the new year, and he arrived at Jerusalem on August 4, for the gracious hand of his God was on him. This was because Ezra had determined to study and obey the Law of the Lord and to teach those decrees and regulations to the people of Israel. Ezra 7:8-10 (NLT)
As I read this I was reminded of a man that I've been discipling, who after years of leading a double-life of sorts, is now seeking God, walking in the light, and spending time in God's word and prayer each day. He shared with me that although his life isn't back to where he want's it to be yet, good things are starting to happen. He see's the hand of God working in his life. It was quite humbling to listen to, as I realized that the reason his life is changing isn't due to anything I'm doing, but because he is seeking the Lord, and he has "determined to study and obey the Law of the Lord."
Friend, there's no secret trick to getting your life back on track. If your life is starting to crumble, recognize that there is one common denominator to your problems; YOU! But there is hope, and that is if you will be determined to seek the Lord in prayer, and spend time studying and obeying His word each day, just like Ezra, the gracious hand of God will be on your life, because:
All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 (NKJ)
"Lord, help me to be determined to set aside time to seek you and study your word each day, and by the power of Your Holy Spirit, help me to live out obedience to Your word."
Pastor Clay | | | | | | | |
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