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Ezra-6

Rebuilding God's House: A Devotional Study on Ezra 6​

Introduction​

The book of Ezra is a scripture filled with history and hope. In Ezra 6, we witness the completion of a significant project - the rebuilding of God's house in Jerusalem. As we examine this account, we can pull out profound spiritual insights that will strengthen our faith and inspire us to rebuild the house of God in our lives.

Section 1: The Edict of King Darius (Ezra 6:1-5)​

Devotional Thought: King Darius learns of a decree issued by King Cyrus in Ezra 1 that allowed the Jews to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the house of God. Darius then issues his own decree, affirming King Cyrus' decree and encouraging the Jews to complete this project. We can draw a valuable lesson from this: New beginnings require support and encouragement. King Darius' affirmation of King Cyrus' decree offered new hope to the Jewish community, rekindling their passion to complete the project. In the same way, we need the support and encouragement of our faith communities to help us begin new projects and initiatives.

Reflection Questions:

  • Who are the people in your faith community that provide you with support and encouragement to begin new projects and initiatives?
  • In what ways can you be a source of encouragement for others as they embark on new projects and initiatives?

Section 2: The Resources of the Community (Ezra 6:6-12)​

Devotional Thought: As the Jewish community received King Darius' decree, they set to work, gathering the necessary resources to complete the project. The people gave generously to the construction, each contributing to the project according to their abilities. We can draw another vital spiritual insight here: success in God's work requires community effort. The project in Jerusalem was not completed through the efforts of a select few, but through the collective efforts of the Jewish community. Today, let's reflect on how we can contribute our abilities to God's work in our community.

Reflection Questions:

  • In what ways have you contributed to God's work in your community?
  • How can you maximize your abilities to contribute to God's work in your community?

Section 3: The Completed House of God (Ezra 6:13-22)​

Devotional Thought: The completion of the building marks a significant milestone in the history of God's people. Ezra reads the decree of King Darius and leads the people in a ceremonial celebration. This celebration reiterates the true meaning of this project - to live in complete obedience to God's will. We can reflect on this spiritual insight: the completion of the work is only the beginning. The house of God in Jerusalem was a physical structure, but it also symbolized the spiritual house God wanted for His people. Today, let's reflect on how we can live in complete obedience to God's will, allowing the house of God to be complete in us.

Reflection Questions:

  • Are you living in complete obedience to God's will?
  • In what ways can you strengthen your commitment to living in complete obedience to God's will?

Conclusion:​

As we conclude our devotional journey through Ezra 6, let's stand in awe of the faith and determination of Ezra and the Jewish community. They display valuable spiritual insights that inspire us to rebuild the house of God in our lives - the need for support and encouragement, community effort, and commitment to living in complete obedience to God's will. May we strive to emulate their faith and determination in our daily lives.