Skip to main content

Ezra-7

The Dedication of the Law: A Devotional Study on Ezra 7​

Introduction​

In Ezra 7, we hear of the return of a man named Ezra from Babylon to Jerusalem with a heart for God's Word. Ezra's dedication to God's Law and conviction to the importance of lawful obedience has much to teach us about our spiritual lives. Let's explore this chapter and uncover the spiritual insights woven in Ezra's story.

Section 1: A Man Committed to God's Word (Ezra 7:1-6)​

Devotional Thought: Ezra was a man with a heart for God's Word. He set out from Babylon with a large entourage and abundant resources to undertake God's mission. His faithfulness and conviction in obeying God's Law is evident throughout the chapter. Consider the blessing in Ezra's story. Let's ask ourselves what inspires our own commitment to God's Word and obedience.

Reflection Questions:

  • What inspires your commitment to obeying God's Word?
  • How can you cultivate a heart for God's Word and obedience in your spiritual life?

Section 2: The King's Support (Ezra 7:7-26)​

Devotional Thought: King Artaxerxes recognized and respected Ezra's commitment to God's Law. He granted Ezra extensive resources and support to complete his mission. It's clear that the king recognized the significance of Ezra's commitment to God's Law. In a world filled with manipulation and priorities at odds with our faith, King Artaxerxes reminds us of the importance of receiving support from secular authorities. Trust in God's provision, but don't neglect the blessings of human authority.

Reflection Questions:

  • How can you better navigate the intersection of faith and secular authority?
  • Who are the kings in your life supporting your spiritual mission?

Section 3: Preparation and Prayer (Ezra 7:27-28)​

Devotional Thought: As Ezra gathered the people of Israel before him, he prepared for the remainder of his mission: the dedication of the Law. Prayer wasn't just Ezra's initial act of devotion, but also a daily practice throughout his journey. Ezra's unceasing dedication to prayer and God's Word should inspire us to prioritize spiritual disciplines. Prayer isn't a substitute for our own commitment to obey God's Word. Let us pray, but never forget to throw ourselves into the active practice of obedience.

Reflection Questions:

  • How do you prioritize spiritual disciplines, such as prayer, in your spiritual life?
  • In what areas of your life does preparation before action serve you spiritually?

Section 4: The Dedication of the Law (Ezra 7:29-8:12)​

Devotional Thought: Ezra's dedication of the Law took place with a stunning display of commitment and significance. His methodical attention to detail, as well as his reverential devotion to God's Word, should inspire us to love and uphold God's Word with equal passion. Consider the profound truths of Ezra's dedication. Let's seek to cultivate this same commitment to God's Word in our own spiritual journeys.

Reflection Questions:

  • How important is the dedication and reverence we hold for God's Word in leading a spiritual life?
  • In what ways can you cultivate a deeper reverence for and dedication to God's Word?

Conclusion:​

The narrative of Ezra exudes a spiritual zeal and focus on God's Word that challenges us to mirror this same dedication. Ezra's commitment to obeying God's Law and his faithfulness to prayer should push us to grow in our own spiritual disciplines. Let us prioritize prayer and dedication to God's Word with the same passion as Ezra. Let us cultivate a heart for God's Word and commit ourselves to God's mission.