For upon the first day of the first month began he to go up from Babylon, and on the first day of the fifth month came he to Jerusalem, according to the good hand of his God upon him. For Ezra had prepared his heart to seek the law of the LORD, and to do it, and to teach in Israel statutes and judgments. Ezra 7:9-10 KJV
Ezra, who had been a captive in Babylon, was a scribe of the Law, God’s Word. He had requested the king of Persia for permission to lead a second group of Israelites back to Jerusalem. This was granted, Ezra said, according the good hand of God. Three characteristics are pointed out to us about Ezra, he prepared his heart: (1) to seek or to know the Word of God, (2) to obey the Word of God, (3) and to teach others the Word of God. To know, to do, and to share God’s Word, these are the characteristics of a heart prepared to serve the Lord and be blessed by Him. Can they be seen in you? Because Ezra prepared his heart verse nine tells us that the good hand of his God was upon Him.
Lord, I want to have a heart prepared to know, obey, and serve You. Help me be consistent in my use of Your Word that I might enjoy Your good hand upon me.
