Wednesday July 6, 2022.
Be A God-Chaser; The Example Of Ezra.
Scripture Reference: Ezra 7:1-10.
Exposition:
The making up of one’s mind and the setting apart of one’s life to doing and contributing to the growth of God’s kingdom is one defining mark of a God-chaser. Their quest is to be in the business of their master first before all other things can follow. Their lives are a true reflection of the oft quoted verse, “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness…” (Matthew 6:33). Regardless of their station of life, God-chasers seek opportunities to use what they have and know to promote the work of God.
In our reading today, we see one such classical example in the person of Ezra, a priest, a scribe, and a man learned in matters of the commandments of the Lord and his statutes for Israel. Read v.6 again. Moreover, God-chasers have an appreciable understanding of the word of God. This does not come by wishing, but by applying oneself consistently to the daily reading of the scriptures. Ezra had set his heart to study the Law of the Lord and to do it and to teach it. The effect was that his life attracted the hand of God and his request to King Artaxerxes was granted.
Also notice the trilogy of every God-chaser: Studies the Word of God, Obeys the Word of God, and Shares the Word of God with others. Everything about Ezra was centred around God: his work, time, ministry, and service to the people of Israel. Regardless of the task that Ezra had in his time, he still made time for God and used his skill and knowledge to promote the work of God. We need more of such persons today as well.
When the church is full of people like Ezra, there will be significant growth and tranquility in every sphere of our lives. Where are the God-chasers? Will you be one of them?
Prayer Guide: Oh God, cause me to prioritize your work and to pursue and promote same with all that I have and with all that I am.
Memory Verse For This Week:
Deuteronomy 4:29 (ESV) – “But from there you will seek the Lord your God and you will find him, if you search after him with all your heart and with all your soul.”