In what ways can we seek God's favor in our endeavors like Ezra? The Favor Ezra Experienced “And I, King Artaxerxes, issue a decree to all the treasurers of Trans-Euphrates: Whatever Ezra the priest, a scribe of the Law of the God of heaven, may request of you, it must be provided in full.” (Ezra 7:21) The king’s open-ended generosity is remarkable, but Ezra himself is quick to point to the real source: “the hand of the LORD my God was upon me” (Ezra 7:28). Below are practical ways we can seek that same divine favor in our own endeavors. Pursue Scripture Wholeheartedly • Ezra “had set his heart to study the Law of the LORD, to practice it, and to teach” (Ezra 7:10). • Favor begins with a resolute commitment to know, obey, and share God’s Word. • John 14:21 reminds us that loving Christ by keeping His commands invites a deeper experience of His love and self-revelation. Walk with Integrity and Devotion • Psalm 84:11: “He withholds no good thing from those who walk with integrity.” • Proverbs 3:3-4: loyalty and faithfulness “bring favor and high regard in the sight of God and man.” • Integrity positions us to receive God’s “yes” because our motives have been purified by His truth. Pray for the Good Hand of God • Ezra repeatedly notes that “the hand of the LORD” was upon him (7:6, 7:28; 8:22). • Psalm 90:17 captures the same plea: “May the favor of the Lord our God rest upon us; establish for us the work of our hands.” • Consistent, humble prayer acknowledges that success ultimately rests on divine involvement, not human ingenuity. Obey Before Opportunity Arrives • Deuteronomy 28:1-2 promises overflowing blessing “if you will diligently obey.” • Ezra obeyed what he already knew; God then opened doors no one else could. • Small daily obediences prepare us to handle larger assignments with credibility. Seek God’s Agenda Above Your Own • Matthew 6:33: “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you.” • 1 Corinthians 10:31: do everything “to the glory of God.” • When our projects are designed to advance worship, discipleship, and compassion, heaven’s resources are gladly released. Honor Earthly Authorities • Ezra respected Artaxerxes’ position and worked within the empire’s structures. • Romans 13:1 and Proverbs 21:1 remind us that God steers the hearts of rulers. • Submitting where we can—and appealing respectfully where we must—keeps us blameless and often wins unexpected allies. Move Forward in Faith • Revelation 3:8: God sets before us “an open door, which no one can shut.” • Hebrews 11:6: He “rewards those who earnestly seek Him.” • Acting on God’s prompts, even when resources seem thin, creates space for Him to display His sufficiency. Live Generously and Acknowledge the Source • Ezra carried offerings for temple worship and later distributed royal provisions to fellow priests; favor flowed through him, not just to him. • 2 Corinthians 9:8 promises that grace abounds so we can “abound in every good work.” • James 1:17 keeps us humble: “Every good and perfect gift is from above.” Putting It All Together 1. Immerse yourself in Scripture until obedience becomes instinctive. 2. Guard integrity; let loving devotion mark your relationships. 3. Pray specifically for God’s hand on each task. 4. Align goals with kingdom purposes. 5. Respect authority and trust God to direct influential hearts. 6. Step out in faith, expecting open doors. 7. Channel every blessing outward and give God the credit. Follow Ezra’s pattern, and watch the Lord’s favor establish the work of your hands. |
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