What can we learn from Ezra's journey to Jerusalem about obedience to God? The journey in one verse “Ezra arrived in Jerusalem in the fifth month of the seventh year of the king.” (Ezra 7:8) What drove Ezra’s obedience • Ezra’s four-month trek (Ezra 7:9) covered roughly 900 miles—no small commitment. • He succeeded “because the gracious hand of his God was upon him” (Ezra 7:9). • The secret is spelled out in verse 10: “Ezra had set his heart to study and practice the Law of the LORD, and to teach its statutes and ordinances in Israel.” Lessons from the road 1. A prepared heart precedes obedient feet – Ezra “set his heart” first (Ezra 7:10). – Compare Psalm 119:112 “my heart is set on keeping Your decrees to the very end.” 2. Obedience involves both knowing and doing – He studied and practiced God’s law (Ezra 7:10). – James 1:22 “Be doers of the word, and not hearers only.” 3. God’s favor empowers persevering obedience – “The gracious hand of his God was upon him” (Ezra 7:9; cf. 7:6). – Philippians 2:13 “For it is God who works in you to will and to act.” 4. Obedience blesses others through teaching – Ezra’s goal was to “teach” (Ezra 7:10). – 2 Timothy 2:2 “entrust to faithful men who will be qualified to teach others also.” 5. Timely obedience matters – He left on “the first day of the first month” and didn’t procrastinate (Ezra 7:9). – Psalm 119:60 “I hurried and did not delay to keep Your commandments.” Echoes elsewhere in Scripture • Abraham left Ur “and he went out, not knowing where he was going” (Hebrews 11:8). • Joshua’s success hinged on “meditating on the Book of the Law day and night… then you will prosper” (Joshua 1:8). • Jesus linked love and obedience: “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments” (John 14:15). Bringing it home – Cultivate a heart that actively pursues God’s Word. – Translate study into practice—ask, “What step of obedience comes next?” – Rely on God’s enabling hand rather than mere willpower. – Share what you learn; obedience multiplies when taught. – Start now—prompt obedience leaves a legacy, just as Ezra’s journey still teaches us today. |
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