Bible Chapter: Ezra 1 & 2

Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.

1.  Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
    God used king Cyrus of Persia to spearhead the return of the nation to Jerusalem.  He proclaimed that many should return to rebuild the temple.  He gave them provisions and encouraged them to return.  This fulfilled the prophecy of Jeremiah that the Jews would be in captivity in Babylon for seventy years before returning to Judah.  He returned articles from the house of the Lord that Nebuchadnezzar had taken and put in the temple of his gods.  God was fulfilling His promises to the nation.  They were taken captive because of their sin and rebellion against God., Now, He was restoring them to their homeland.  The list of the people who returned is included in these chapters.

2.  What can I apply in my life from the reading?
    God is serious about having people serve and obey Him.  We see that here.  The nation was taken captive for seventy years because of their sin.  The good news of this book is that we see the story of the restoration of the people to their homeland.  Ezra was a godly leader who brought them back to serve the Lord and insisted that they do so.  Serving God consistently, as Ezra called for, is the best way to live my life.

3.  How can I help someone?
    Remember that God is a righteous Judge.  He will judge sin and bless obedience.  He will make people pay for their rebellion.  It is always best to learn what God wants and then actually do it.