How does Ezra 7:28 connect with other instances of God's favor in Scripture? The Verse in Focus Ezra 7:28: “and who has extended His loving devotion to me before the king, his counselors, and all his powerful officials. Because the hand of the LORD my God was upon me, I took courage and gathered leaders from Israel to go up with me.” Echoes of Favor Throughout Scripture • Joseph before Pharaoh – “The LORD was with Joseph…and the LORD gave him favor in the eyes of the chief jailer” (Genesis 39:2–4, 21). • Moses before the Egyptians – “The LORD had given the people favor in the sight of the Egyptians” (Exodus 12:36). • Ruth before Boaz – “Why have I found favor in your eyes…?” (Ruth 2:10–12). • David before Saul – “David was successful in all his ways…and Saul set him over the men of war” (1 Samuel 18:5, 14). • Esther before Xerxes – “The king loved Esther…so that she obtained grace and favor” (Esther 2:15–17; 5:2). • Daniel before Nebuchadnezzar – “God granted Daniel favor and compassion in the sight of the chief official” (Daniel 1:9). • Nehemiah before Artaxerxes – “The king granted me what I asked, for the gracious hand of my God was upon me” (Nehemiah 2:8, 18). • Jesus growing up – “And Jesus increased…in favor with God and men” (Luke 2:52). • The early church – “praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people” (Acts 2:47). Shared Marks of Divine Favor • God moves the hearts of rulers (Proverbs 21:1). • His “hand” rests on His servants, empowering courage and action (Ezra 7:28; Nehemiah 2:18; Acts 11:21). • Favor serves covenant purposes—preserving a people, advancing worship, or spreading the gospel. • Recipients respond with obedience, humility, and risk-taking faith. Connecting Threads Ezra’s experience mirrors earlier and later episodes: 1. Placement before powerful authorities. 2. Tangible help that cannot be explained merely by human negotiation. 3. Immediate courage and decisive steps that further God’s redemptive plan. Living the Lesson • Expect God’s favor to open doors aligned with His Word, not personal convenience. • Seek His “hand” through prayer and faithful obedience; favor is granted, not seized. • When favor comes, move forward boldly—just as Ezra “took courage” and gathered others for God’s mission. |
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