God’s Strengthening Word: Offering God Thanks and PraiseНамуна

Introduction

Ezra 7:11–28: Emperor Artaxerxes gives Ezra a document, outlining instructions for maintaining the Temple and the worship life of the people.

Today’s Key Verse: Ezra 7:27 GNT

Ezra said, “Praise the LORD, the God of our ancestors! He has made the emperor willing to honor in this way the Temple of the LORD in Jerusalem.”

Reflect

How does Emperor Artaxerxes address Ezra in the opening of the document (verse 12)? What responsibility did the emperor assign to Ezra (verse 14)? What else was Ezra instructed to do (verses 15–26)? What are your thoughts as to why Ezra was chosen for these tasks? How are responsibilities assigned within your community of faith, and what tasks are needed to ensure the ongoing worship life of your faith community? Reread verses 27 and 28. What specific blessings inspire Ezra to praise God? What good things has God done that will motivate you to bless him today?

Pray

Today, Lord God, I praise you for __________. Fill me with your wisdom and give me courage this day to speak your word of truth and love. May everything I do today be aligned with your will and honor your name. Amen.

Tomorrow’s Reading

Nehemiah 8:1–18: Ezra reads the Law to the people gathered in Jerusalem.