Reading Time: 4 minutes
Once work on the temple altar and temple itself were completed, it was time to get the exiles’ lives in order. Ezra the great Bible teacher led the way in this through prayer and fasting.
+The Lookout
January 22 | Application (‘Give It Up’)
Reading Time: 3 minutes
Why isn’t fasting more common in the American church? The Bible mentions it at least 60 times. Moses and Jesus both fasted for 40 days in the wilderness (Exodus 34:28; Matthew 4:2). Ezra, Nehemiah, and Esther fasted. So did David, John the Baptist, and Paul. . . .
January 22 | Discovery
Reading Time: 2 minutes
What leadership traits do you see in Ezra?
January 15 | It’s Not Easy
Reading Time: 4 minutes
God’s people had returned from their exile in Babylon, had rebuilt the altar in the temple, and were laying the foundation of the temple when they ran into a buzz saw. “Enemies” reared their ugly heads (Ezra 4:1). . . .
January 15 | Application (‘Traveling on a Rough Road’)
Reading Time: 3 minutes
The book of Ezra tells how a group of exiled Jews traveled back to Jerusalem to rebuild God’s temple, but it wasn’t a smooth and easy journey. Their story reveals some principles that can help us travel rough roads of our own.
January 15 | Discovery
Reading Time: 2 minutes
What can you learn from Ezra 4:12–5:2 about God’s timing, waiting on him, and trusting him in the process?
January 8 | It’s Exciting
Reading Time: 4 minutes
By this point in the book of Ezra, God’s people had their hope deferred. They came back from captivity with such high hopes . . . but then the wheels fell off. . . .
January 8 | Application (‘Celebrate the Wins’)
Reading Time: 3 minutes
In life, as in sports, it’s important to stop and give thanks when things go well. Before we rush ahead and move on to the next event or activity, we should pause and celebrate the wins. . . .
January 8 | Discovery
Reading Time: 2 minutes
What area in your life are you hoping to build on with God’s help this year?