Daily. Bible. Reading.

Having made a good start last week, this week we complete our readings and study from the book of Ezra, with a side trip in Nehemiah.  

Monday – Ezra 8:1-20

The shift to first person, ‘I’ in the narrative indicates Ezra’s perspective. He gathers the returning exiles and recognizes something is missing. What is it they do not have enough of? Why did Ezra wait for these to be provided before he carried on toward Jerusalem? What might we, or you, be needing to ‘wait’ on before moving forward with plans?

Currently our church is understaffed, analogous to the ‘not enough Levites’, so pray to the Lord of the Harvest for more workers. 

Tuesday – Ezra 8:21-36

Ezra is too ashamed to do what? Have you ever felt that way? Who do you think he was protecting the offerings from with guards – Jews with sticky hands or outsiders who might come and rob in the night?

Talk to the Lord about the fears you have regarding things of daily life. 

Wednesday – Ezra 9:1-15

This will be a big point of discussion on Sunday, but for now, evaluate the ways what Ezra is saying might be misunderstood and used for evil in the wrong hands. What was the real issue Ezra is confronting?

Pray for someone you know who is struggling with different faith commitments in a family context. 

Thursday – Ezra 10:1-44

Ezra forces the issue of confession. It seems like weather and actual logistics form an obstacle to what Ezra’s vision is for the confession project. What accommodation is made? Why is it important for leaders to confess the sins of those they lead even if they are not themselves guilty?

Confess your sins to God, then confess the sins of our church, other churches, other Christians, and our nation. 

Friday – Nehemiah 8:1-12

What does Ezra do? What arrangements were made to make this happen? How do the people respond? When was the last time you responded to the word of God like that?

Ask the Holy Spirit to open your heart to his word, then open the church prayer list email and pray through it.