Ezra: The Focused Life

CBN.com -- Key Scripture: Ezra 7:10: “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.”

Read: Ezra 7:1-27

The Bible's account of Ezra begins in the second return of the Israeli exiles to Jerusalem. Israel had been in captivity under Babylonian and Persian rule. Cyrus, one of the Persian kings, was moved by God to authorize the restoration of the Jews and the rebuilding of Jerusalem's temple. Almost a century later, Ezra went to Jerusalem to teach the restored Jews the law of God, and thereby ushered in a mighty spiritual revival in Israel.

Ezra being a priest seems to have recognized the part he would have to play in Israel's restoration. Thus, he focused on the fulfillment of his mission, preparing his heart to seek God, to do God's will, and to teach Israel. He focused on accomplishing his purpose.

With many people in the captivity of sin, and the church seeking revival, God is raising up people to usher in restoration and revival. Each of us, as believers, is called to be a part of God's great move in the earth today. But are we prepared for our purpose? Are we focused on our mission?

Knowing that we are called of God to be a part of His unfolding purpose across the world, we ought to posture ourselves like Ezra, devoting our hearts to God. Now is the hour for us to begin disciplining ourselves to prayer, the study of God's Word, and to the mission of winning souls for Christ. Like an athlete determined to win a race, we must focus on our purpose.

The focused life is disciplined, defined, and lived by a divinely given identity, destiny, purpose, mission, and passion.

Prayer: Lord, reveal the calling and gifts You have placed upon my life. Give me the earnestness to pursue Your will. By Your Spirit, I will be all You have called me to be.

In Jesus’ Name,
Amen.

Copyright © 2005 by Omaudi Reid. Used by permission.

About the Author:
Moved by a sense of destiny, Omaudi Reid has been preaching and teaching in Christian circles in America and other parts of the world for more than eight years. He has assisted in writing and editing online and off-line publications for his local church congregation. In 2003 Omaudi started the Harvesters Online Web site, www.harvestersonline.com, to support believers across the world who enjoy sharing the gospel of Christ in their community and beyond. In 2004 Omaudi and his wife, Guerline, published their first book, Creating Unbreakable Bonds: Marital Intimacy on Three Levels. The book came out of the lessons they learned together in their marriage. Omaudi expects to continue writing articles and books to empower people to fulfill their God-given callings.