IIT UBF - University Bible Fellowship at IIT

Daily Bread

Key Verse: 7:6

First, Ezra came up from Babylon (1-10). About sixty years after the temple was completed, God sent a second group of Israelites, led by Ezra, to Jerusalem. Ezra was a priest, a descendent of Aaron (5). He was also a Bible teacher, well versed in God’s law. The LORD’s hand was on Ezra and blessed his relationship with King Artaxerxes. The king granted everything Ezra asked. This was not because Ezra was politically savvy. Rather it was the fruit of Ezra’s Bible study, obedience and Bible teaching. When Ezra devoted himself to the LORD, the LORD blessed his leadership and influence.

Second, God moves hearts (11-28). Artaxerxes gave permission to any Israelite to travel with Ezra from Babylon to Jerusalem. The king also gave a personal offering (15). Supplies for temple worship were to be paid out of the royal and provincial treasuries. Everything was to be carried out with diligence. The king did not want to incur God’s wrath. Ezra was respected as a man of God’s wisdom and word (25). Ezra praised God for moving the king’s heart. He took courage and gathered leaders for the four-month journey.

Prayer: Lord, thank you for honoring your servants when they honor you. Help me to study, obey and teach your word.

One Word: God’s hand moves hearts