DAY 325: JOURNEY THROUGH THE BIBLE IN A YEAR – EZRA 6-10

November 19, 2024

EZRA 6-10
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DAY 325: JOURNEY THROUGH THE BIBLE IN A YEAR

Our journey today continues with the rebuilding of Jerusalem.

Take a moment and pray, asking for understanding of today’s reading. Read Ezra 6-10. Let’s journey!

The Old Testament books of Ezra and Nehemiah are separate today, however, they were originally one book: Ezra-Nehemiah, authored by a single, unknown person.  Both books detail the return of the Israelites to Jerusalem after spending years in captivity and living abroad. The Israelites are attempting to rebuild their famed city, but arrive to find it in ruins.  The remnant struggles in their rebuilding.  Ezra and Nehemiah were leaders during this time of rebuilding. 

Ezra 6-10: With the support of King Darius of Persia, the Israelites were able to finish the rebuilding of the temple and celebrate Passover.  Ezra led the second wave of exiles back to Jerusalem.  In the intervening years, from the beginning of the rebuilding of the temple to Ezra’s arrival, the people had, once again, failed to obey the Lord by marrying outsiders who worshiped false gods.  It was a problem that required a tough solution.  Our reading concludes with a list of names of those who were guilty of intermarrying.  (Ezra 6:1-10:44)

After concluding today’s reading, take some time and consider the following:  What happened in today’s reading?  What can be learned from what happened?  How can that lesson be related and applied to today?  To yourself?

Godspeace!