June 9, 2024

Ezra had an impressive lineage. He was a grandson of Aaron! Ezra made it a point to learn the scriptures and the law of Moses. It is said that he compiled the manuscripts to include the law, history, poetry, and the writings of the prophets, which make up the Old Testament of today. Artaxerxes sent him to Jerusalem along with other people, accessories for the temple, and money to purchase whatever might be needed for the temple service. Artaxerxes also told the treasurers throughout his kingdom to give Ezra whatever money he needed for the temple. He wanted it known that he was giving this offering to God. You can bet he learned a great lesson from Esther and Mordecai and now believed in the deity of God. Artaxerxes appointed Ezra to teach and raise others in the law of God. He made it illegal for anyone to touch the priests and Levites, singers, porters, Nethinims, or ministers and made it unlawful to tax any of them. If anyone didn’t follow the law of God, they would face severe penalties. Ezra praised God for all he had done through Artaxerxes.

God’s provision is over and beyond anything we can ever expect when a righteous person, faithful in His dealings, seeks to do His will. I’m not saying there won’t be challenges; there always are because the enemy wants to devour us, but God will protect and defend His children who have set their eyes on Him alone. 

And thou, Ezra, after the wisdom of thy God, that is in thine hand, set magistrates and judges, which may judge all the people that are beyond the river, all such as know the laws of thy God; and teach ye them that know them not. Ezra 7:25