It's been an exciting trip so far...returning from exile, laying the foundation, persecution and delays, confronted with the Word of God, completing the temple...all really great stuff. Now it's time for our hero to enter the story! Ezra was a man with a call on his life, a passionate man of purpose. In this week's reading, we will listen to the story of his return journey. Pay special attention to how his faith is practically applied to the circumstances of the trip.
What are some of the challenges you face in attempting to integrate your faith and life? I know for me, the first battle is confronting the lie that faith is only a part of my life. The truth is my faith is my life. I AM a child of God; a sinner turned saint by the blood of Christ. That's who I am always. Because that's not how much of the world views it, I have to constantly remind myself that being a Christ follower is not a part-time job. I don't even get a vacation! I'm in a season right now where that is good news. I long to be obedient every day. I can't say that's always been the case. I'm so glad that God is perfectly committed to us. He never takes time off from being our Father, Redeemer, or Friend. God, I praise You for Your steadfast love. Forgive us. Strengthen us.
3 comments:
Day two reading should have referenced Proverbs 21:1.
The notes in my study Bible on the reading in Deuteronomy today talks about the importance of memorizing scripture. God gave Moses a song to teach the people. They would always have that song in their heart. At the conference this weekend the speaker talked about the importance of memorizing scripture as well. Although I have heard this before, it's really made me stop to think about my lack of memorized scripture. I thought about the first Bible verse that I was made to memorize. I was in the fourth or fifth grade. I didn't understand the words at all then, but now I understand them perfectly. It's going to be hard for me to do, but I am going to try to memorize more.
Thanks Jeremy. Any good ideas about where I should start?
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