Ezra 9: 8 - 10
Yesterday's thoughts laid so heavy on me ... I needed the words from the middle of Ezra's prayer today as he recounts some of what God has done for His people. Refreshment always follows conviction! Let's just slowly relish the things Ezra acknowledges about our God ...
1. God's grace gives us a firm place to stand in His sanctuary. (verse 8) Celebrate that fact today. Paul tells us the we can be pressed in on every side ... but not crushed (2 Corinthians 4:8) and that we can put on the armor of God which will enable us to stand (Ephesians 6:10 ff). The grace of God provides what we need so that we can stand. Praise His Name!
2. God gives light to our eyes. (verse 8 ) Jesus is that light ("I AM the light of the world - John 8:12). God's Word gives light ("Your Word is a light unto my path" - Psalm 119:105). We do not have to walk in darkness. Thank you Lord!
3. God gives relief from our bondage. (verse 8) In reality, this God gives FREEDOM from bondage. "It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery." (Galatians 5:1) Hallelujah!
4. God does not desert us. (verse 9) Jesus says "I will ask the Father and He will give you another Counselor to be with your forever - the Spirit of truth." (John 14:16 - 17) Never alone - a precious gift!
5. God shows us kindness. (verse 9) God's grace is "expressed in His kindness..." (Ephesians 2:7) List the ways that you see the kindness of God in your own life ... in your current circumstances. Praise God from whom all blessings flow!
6. God gives new life. (verse 9) A new creation ... born of God. "You must be born again" (John 3:7) And miracle of miracles ... God does it ... He births us again, by Spirit, into new life! And I bow in worship to this amazing God!
"God is good all the time. All the time God is good."
ReplyDeleteThis was a hard intimidating lesson, but I found your list very refreshing. Your comments turned my focus back to how much God loves me and how much I want to be like Him in loving others, and I needed that. Thank you -- you are truly a blessing!