In what ways can we prioritize God's work like in Ezra 3:7 today? The Historical Snapshot “Then they gave money to the masons and carpenters, and they gave food and drink and oil to the Sidonians and Tyrians to bring cedar logs from Lebanon to the sea at Joppa, according to the grant they had received from Cyrus king of Persia.” (Ezra 3:7) Key Principle: Provision Precedes Progress The returned exiles did not wait for the temple to be finished before supporting it; they invested first. Their generosity—money, supplies, skilled labor—said, “God’s house comes ahead of our own comforts.” Where the Principle Meets Our World Today • Prioritize giving before spending – Set the tithe or first‐fruits offering aside as soon as income arrives (Proverbs 3:9; Malachi 3:10). – Budget kingdom giving the way Judah budgeted cedar, stone, and wages. • Fund gospel partnerships – Support missionaries, church plants, Bible translation, crisis pregnancy centers—modern “masons and carpenters.” (Philippians 4:15–17) • Contribute skills, not only cash – Web design, legal advice, carpentry, childcare—whatever vocational talent you have, offer it for ministry use (1 Peter 4:10). • Resource quality materials – In Ezra, cedar from Lebanon was the best wood available. Today, provide sound equipment, solid curriculum, reliable vehicles—tools that honor God by their excellence (Colossians 3:23). • Give practical aid to ministry partners – Food, lodging, transportation, gift cards. The exiles supplied oil and provisions so others could work unencumbered (3 John 5–8). Checklist for Prioritizing God’s Work 1. Examine the calendar: block out time each week for worship, service, and discipling others (Hebrews 10:24–25). 2. Examine the bank statement: what percentage advances the kingdom? (Matthew 6:21) 3. Examine the talents column: are your abilities active in church life or dormant? (Romans 12:6–8) 4. Examine the household: teach children that the local church gets first claim on family resources (Deuteronomy 6:6–9). Sustaining a Lifestyle of Kingdom Priority • Fix the target: “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness…” (Matthew 6:33). • Remember the promise: “Your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” (1 Corinthians 15:58) • Cultivate cheerfulness: “God loves a cheerful giver.” (2 Corinthians 9:7) • Keep eternity in view: “Each one’s work will become evident, for the Day will disclose it.” (1 Corinthians 3:13–14) By investing our money, skills, and schedules in God’s purposes—just as the remnant did in Ezra 3:7—we declare anew that His work is worth our best and first. |
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