OCTOBER 6 – Reading 279

by John Pra | October 6

“PEOPLE OF THE WORD”
(Ezra 7:1-8:36)

“For Ezra had set his heart to study the Law of the Lord, and to do it and to teach his statutes and rules in Israel.” –  Ezra 7:10

Finally, after 70 years of exile in Babylon, the Jews returned  to Jerusalem as God had promised. Resettling and rebuilding was not easy. Surrounding nations warred against them, political maneuvers stalled their progress, and fear and discouragement set in. But after many years Jerusalem was moving forward, the city walls were repaired, and the Temple was rebuilt. Life was getting back to “normal.”

But back to normal wasn’t a good thing. Outwardly things looked better but inwardly hearts were drifting. Again. Revival and a renewed relationship with God was needed.

Between chapters 6 and 7 there is a period of more than 60 years – a long drift. For the first time, in chapter 7, Ezra is mentioned in the story. He is a priest and a scribe who copied, studied, and interpreted the law of Moses and the words of the prophets. When he returned to Jerusalem he was grieved by the transgressions of the people and dedicated himself to their reform. Ezra is credited with establishing the importance of the Torah and shaping the post-exilic Jewish identity.

We find how he accomplished this in 7:10: He studied the Law of the Lord, he obeyed the Law, and he taught the Law. For us to have a Godly impact and see revival in our world, we need to follow Ezra’s example.

1. Study the Word – This begins with unhurried reading, thoughtful questions, and humble dependence upon the Holy Spirit.

• Read for meaning, not just mileage.
• Write what you see—observations, questions, prayers, applications.
• Organize ideas—trace arguments, note repeated themes.
  Skill grows with practice; anyone can learn to handle Scripture faithfully.

2. Live the Word – Head knowledge without obedience puffs up. Ezra’s learning became living. Ask, What is one clear step of obedience this text calls me to today? Then do it.

3. Teach the Word – Ezra’s goal wasn’t private mastery but public faithfulness. We all can pass along Scripture—in a living room, a classroom, a coffee shop, or a text. Share what you’re learning.

Application:

• Daily: Read one chapter; write one insight; obey one step; share one sentence with someone.

   

• Pray: “Lord, set my heart where Your hand rests. Make me a person of Your Word.” 

Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, as you stirred Ezra, stir me. Forgive me for settling for “normal” while my heart drifts. Revive me! Breathe holy hunger for You and for Your Word. May I inspire others to seek after You by the passion with me. Amen.