Daily Reading: Ezra 8
Then I proclaimed a fast there, at the river Ahava, that we might humble ourselves before our God, to seek from him a safe journey for ourselves, our children, and all our goods. (Ezra 8.21)
Devotional Thought: The people of Israel have a 1000-mile journey in front of them … one that will happen at a walking pace and take place during the heat of summer. They’re carrying enormous amounts of wealth—gold, silver, material goods—and it will take approximately four months. It’s a situation of great anxiety and nervousness. In addition, Ezra has previously expressed great confidence in God’s hand upon him and this expedition. He doesn’t want, in any way, to come off as faithless before a pagan king by asking for an escort of soldiers and horsemen.
Try to put yourself in Ezra’s position. He’s a man of great faith. He trusts God implicitly. But he holds a position where the decisions he makes will not only impact himself but thousands of others. If he misreads things or recommends a course of action that ends up being detrimental, many lives will be negatively impacted. So—what does he do? He calls the people to pray and fast. He understood the spiritual power of humbling himself before God and seeking His guidance and direction.
Perhaps you’re facing a life-changing scenario. Maybe you're contemplating a career transition … or a relocation … or a major life change of some sort. The hazards are real. The threats are undeniable. The peril is significant. If things don’t go as you hope, you’ll not only deal with hardship yourself but also create misery for a number of others.
At such a time God calls us, as he did Ezra at the Ahava Canal, to pray and fast. He calls us to acknowledge our dependence before Almighty God—something that is often very difficult for us to do.
John Whitsett
Prayer: Heavenly Father, I probably face more life-changing scenarios than I can ever imagine. My decisions will create ripple effects upon the lives of those around me. Help me to live in a state of constant dependence, to sense your guidance and to navigate any threats in ways that will bring blessing, rather than adversity and misfortune, into their lives.
Psalm of the Day: Psalm 97:1-7
1 The LORD reigns, let the earth be glad; let the distant shores rejoice.
2 Clouds and thick darkness surround him; righteousness and justice are the foundation of his throne.
3 Fire goes before him and consumes his foes on every side.
4 His lightning lights up the world; the earth sees and trembles.
5 The mountains melt like wax before the LORD, before the Lord of all the earth.
6 The heavens proclaim his righteousness, and all peoples see his glory.
7 All who worship images are put to shame, those who boast in idols— worship him, all you gods!
Awesome stuff! Praying with you all!