How does Ezra 7:14 encourage us to seek God's will in our decisions? Setting the Scene - Ezra arrives in Jerusalem during the reign of Artaxerxes, charged with a specific mission. - The king’s decree recognizes Ezra’s expertise in “the Law of your God,” and commissions him to “inquire” about Judah and Jerusalem (Ezra 7:14). Reading Ezra 7:14 “For you are sent by the king and his seven counselors to inquire about Judah and Jerusalem with regard to the Law of your God, which is in your hand.” Key Observations • “Sent” – Ezra’s assignment is intentional; he is under authority yet ultimately accountable to God. • “Inquire” – a deliberate investigation, not casual curiosity. • “With regard to the Law of your God” – Scripture is the standard by which every matter is evaluated. • “Which is in your hand” – Ezra possesses the Law tangibly; God’s Word is ready for immediate consultation. How the Verse Guides Us Today - Permission and mandate: If a pagan king thought God’s Law was worth consulting, believers should be even more ready to do so. - Priority: Decision-making starts by asking, “What does God’s Word say?” - Authority: The Bible stands above culture, tradition, or personal preference. - Accountability: Just as Ezra would report back, we answer to God for how we apply His Word. Practical Steps to Seek God’s Will 1. Hold the Word “in your hand.” • Keep Scripture accessible—physical Bible, app, memorized passages. 2. Inquire before you act. • Pause; refuse to move forward until Scripture has spoken to the issue. 3. Compare every option with clear commands or principles. • When the Bible speaks directly, obey without negotiation. 4. Seek counsel that upholds Scripture. • Surround yourself with people who will open the Bible with you, not merely share opinions. 5. Follow through. • Once God’s will is clear, walk in it, even if inconvenient or unpopular. Supporting Scriptures - Psalm 119:105 – “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” - Proverbs 3:5-6 – “Trust in the Lord with all your heart… He will make your paths straight.” - James 1:5 – “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God…” - Acts 17:11 – The Bereans were “examining the Scriptures daily to see if these things were so.” - 2 Timothy 3:16-17 – “All Scripture is God-breathed… so that the man of God may be fully equipped for every good work.” Putting It into Practice • Begin each decision by opening God’s Word. • Ask, “What does the Law of God in my hand say about this?” • Evaluate motives and plans through the lens of Scripture. • Proceed only when your course aligns with God’s revealed will, confident He will honor obedience just as He honored Ezra’s faithful inquiry. |
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