Chasing Truth™: Read the Bible Cover to CoverSample

Uniquely Used by God

Ezra 6, 7

In the Book of Ezra, we see the restoration of the temple in Jerusalem, and some of the Jews returning from captivity in Babylon. Restoration had begun earlier but had been halted because of some opposition. Finally, the temple was completed and the Jews celebrated Passover, in Ezra 6. Now, in chapter 7, Ezra is being set up by King Artaxerxes to oversee the completed temple.

Throughout Scripture, we could make a study of the kind of people God uses for special purposes. Here’s what we can learn from Ezra:

“Now Ezra had determined in his heart to study the law of the Lord, obey it, and teach its statutes and ordinances in Israel” (7:10). 

First, we see that Ezra studied the Word of God. In fact, he set his heart on studying God’s Word. Since you began following the Chasing Truth reading plan and are reading the devotionals, you are taking this step as well. We need systematic study of God’s Word in our lives, so that we know His character and can follow Him in paths of righteousness. 

Ezra also practiced the Word of God. Ezra’s life was consistent with what he believed. People around him could trust in his consistency and the king elevated him to a position of confidence to oversee the temple. Can other people watch your life, and see your consistency? Does your life measure up with what you read in God’s Word?

Finally, we see that Ezra taught the Word of God. Every Christian should be challenged to share the gospel with those around them. We have a responsibility to do so.

With the foundation of the three principles of study, practice, and teaching the Word of God at work in Ezra’s life, he was in a position to be uniquely used by God.