Day 103 – Ezra: Character sketch of Ezra

“Ezra had determined to study and obey the Law of the Lord and to teach those decrees and regulations to the people of Israel.” Ezra 7:10 NLT

It is not personal achievement but personal commitment to live for God that is important. Achievements are simply examples of what God can do through someone. The most effective leaders spoken of in the Bible had little awareness of the impact their lives had on others, and they were too busy obeying God to keep track of their successes. Ezra fits that description.

Knowing Ezra’s priorities, it is not surprising to note his actions when he arrived in Jerusalem. He addressed the people and made it clear they had sinned, and because of the sins of many, all were under God’s condemnation. Confession, repentance, and action were needed. The nation admitted its sin and dealt with it. The initial effort on Ezra’s part set the stage for what Nehemiah would later accomplish.

Ezra made a significant impact because he had the right starting place for his actions and his life: God’s Word. He studied it seriously and applied it faithfully while teaching others what he learned.

Strengths and accomplishments

Ezra was committed to study, follow, and teach God’s Word and was concerned about keeping he details of God’s commands. Later, he worked alongside Nehemiah during the last spiritual awakening recorded in the Old Testament.

Life lessons from Ezra’s life

A person’s willingness to know and practice God’s Word will have a direct effect on how God uses his or her life. The starting place for serving God wholeheartedly is a personal commitment to serve Him today, even before knowing what that service will entail.

Prayer: Father, awaken in us to study Your Word more deeply and faithfully and to want to do Your will instead of ours. May Your Word guide us like a lamp at our feet wherever You send us. Amen.