“Prophetic Prodding (Part 2)” Ezra 6:1-22; Zechariah 1-14

God has always desired that His people walk in a manner worthy of their calling in Christ Jesus (Eph. 4:1). God’s people are to live in way that brings Him glory and honor. When we don’t and we live in a way that is right in our own eyes, we dishonor Him, who has done so much for us, and we bring the consequences of our disobedience upon ourselves. These consequences, that God allows, are designed to bring us back to a place where we worship and seek Him alone. This discipline of the Lord can take on many different forms, but its goal for us is always repentance, restoration, and renewal.

In the Old Testament, God allowed unbelieving nations to conquer Israel and take them into captivity. This happened because of Israel’s desire to live their lives divorced from God’s will for them. Israel’s captivity didn’t mean that God was done with Israel. It didn’t mean that God’s plans had failed. It did mean that there was a new season for God to prove His sovereignty and compassion for His people in restoring them to a place of right worship before Him. We glimpse a snapshot of this grace and mercy in the book of Ezra.

As we study Ezra for the next several weeks we will witness God’s people fulfilling God’s purposes. I pray we’re encouraged as we see the sovereignty of God over ungodly kings and kingdoms, the love of God in restoring His people when they go astray, and the excitement of God’s people as they experience revival in being the people God wants them to be.

Treasuring Christ with you,

Pastor Scott Morgan