During a study in Ezra, my men's group took several weeks digging into each chapter, looking at the history of the Israelite's and their experiences in the exile to Babylon and the return to Jerusalem. The goal was to find lessons we could apply to our lives today. Although there are many things we can learn from the Israelite's, I was more intrigued by Ezra and his devotion to a God that he had only known from studying the Laws of Moses and the words of the prophets that came before is time.

Sure Ezra was told stories of the past regarding his people and their time in Jerusalem, stories of delivery into the promise land, stories of past Kings, good and bad, and stories of the glorious temple built by Solomon, the festivals to the Lord, and the sacrifices required of the Lord. But Ezra never experienced these things first hand.  Nonetheless, Ezra understood what it meant to surrender fully to The Lord.

Scripture says in Ezra 7:10 (NIV) “For Ezra had devoted himself to the study and observance of the Law of the Lord, and to teaching its decrees and laws in Israel“

This one verse notes three important things, we as Christians, should practice today:

1.)    Ezra devoted himself to the Study of the Law of the Lord. God gave us His word to instruct us in the way we should live life. Studying God’s laws are vital to a life of obedience. God’s words should be written on our hearts and be fresh within us, that at every turn on the path we travel, we should be able to draw upon God’s word from memory, the moment we need it, to help us overcome.

2.)   Ezra Devoted himself to the observance of the Law of the Lord. It is one thing to know the law, but it is another thing to obey and practice the law. Jesus did not say if you love me you will study what I say and be able to repeat it back to me. He said if you love me you will obey my commands. John 15:10 (NLT) says, “When you obey my commandments, you remain in my love, just as I obey my Father’s commandments and remain in his love." We need to put into practice what we know to be true. Don’t just talk the talk, but walk the talk. If you truly believe it than you will do it.

3.)   Ezra had devoted himself to teaching God's decrees and laws in Israel. Ezra knew the power in what he had learned and practiced. He also understood it was something NOT to be kept to oneself. It was import to Ezra that His people, God’s chosen people, knew what the Law of the Lord said and practiced it. Israel had a bad reputation for turning their backs on God in a period of one generation. Ezra knew from his studies the prophetic message of God. He knew how Israel had failed, and he understood it was only by God’s grace that there was still a remnant left for God to fulfill His promise through. It was important for Ezra to lead by example and to teach Israel the importance of following God wholeheartedly and that’s exactly what he did.

Wow! What precedence! When I read this I am somewhat embarrassed at my effort on a daily basis as it regards my devotion to God. It is easy to make excuses. It is easy to be distracted and let our every day routines take over. But to be honest, it should be our daily routine to study, practice and teach the word of God. I am challenged by God’s word about Ezra. Take some time to read his story, reflect on how you measure up, then thank God and ask Him to help you to change your routine as needed.

In Christ,

David