Ezra: The Lord HelpsSample

Unbridled joy is a wonderful thing. Whether it lasts for just a few moments or much longer, there’s nothing better than being full of delight and happiness. When it is a shared experience, it’s even sweeter. The first half of the book of Ezra ends with God’s people full of joy (vv. 16, 22). This originates from two circumstances. 

First, they are joyful as they dedicate the temple at the completion of the building (v. 16). Their joy is expressed in them offering sacrifices (v. 17) and installing priests and Levites according to the Book of Moses (v. 18). Out of joy they sacrificially give and obey the Word of God. 

Today, as we see the Lord build His church, it should fill us with joy. There is nothing more important in life than seeing people becoming Christians, and the local church growing numerically and spiritually. That joy should result in us offering ourselves as living sacrifices, dedicating ourselves and all that we have in our service of Him. Joy in the Lord should make us long to obey the Word of the Lord. 

Second, the joy of God’s people comes from seeing the Lord sovereignly overrule in changing the heart of the king of Assyria (v. 22). They know that the Lord has assisted them in the building work. They know they would never have been able to complete the work without God’s intervention. As a result, they are full of joy from seeing God work so miraculously. They celebrate – with the Festival of Unleavened Bread (v. 22). 

Today, when we see the Lord sovereignly overrule to bring about the building of His church, our joy should turn to celebration. It should be reflected in lives of sincerity and truth (1 Cor. 5:6–8). Seeing the greatness of our God at work motivates us to live a life of purity for Him.

Reflection

What brings you joy? Joyfully thank the Lord for His work in bringing people to Himself and growing the church. Ensure your joyful response is expressed in sacrificially living a life of sincerity, truth, and purity.