SWHW Bible Reading Plan: September 2021Sample

Top Takeaway From Audra Haney:

Are you praying for God to stir the hearts of kings?

When we enter the opening scene of Ezra, we see God telling His story of sovereignty. We see God showing His complete rule and reign.

In Ezra 1, Cyrus (the King of Persia) at the very beginning of his reign, is allowing the exiled Israelites to return from Jerusalem and rebuild the temple. Not only was Cyrus allowing God’s people to rebuild the very symbol of God’s presence in their lives, but he was fulfilling a prophecy from Isaiah that was hundreds of years old. 

“Who says of Cyrus, ‘He is My shepherd, And he shall perform all My pleasure, saying to Jerusalem, ‘You shall be built,’ And to the temple, ‘Your foundation shall be laid.’” Isaiah 44:28

Historians have many theories as to why Cyrus might have made such a monumental decree. But one thing is clear, God was responsible for turning his heart. 

I think this is an urgent reminder for us. We can get so enveloped in the smaller narratives around us that we lose sight of the bigger story being told. 

When rulers and leaders arise that don’t seem to be carrying out God’s will or plan, it’s easy to become fearful or hopeless.  In an increasingly anti-Christian culture, we need to remember that God is still in control and God still directs hearts. 

“In the Lord’s hand the king’s heart is a stream of water that he channels toward all who please him.” Proverbs 21:1

“A man’s heart plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps.” Proverbs 16:9 

How passionately are you praying for God to direct the hearts of the leaders in your workplace, city, country, and world? 

How often are you aligning your perspective with God’s perspective? 

How confident are you in the sovereignty and goodness of God in all things?

We may be in a modern-day Babylon, but it doesn’t mean that God isn’t writing a victorious story.

Sovereign God, thank you that you are still in control. You haven’t left us for one moment and You haven’t been confused, or overruled, or overthrown for one second. We pray for the hearts of the rulers in our world today. We pray for You to stir their hearts in a way that brings You the most glory. We pray for Your perspective and Your insight on what’s happening around us. We may be grieving a spiritual exile, but we can rejoice that You see the returning. Amen.