Ezra 7: Dedicated to the Word of God

Ezra 7: Dedicated to the Word of God August 1, 2013

For Ezra had devoted himself to the study and observance of the Law of the Lord, and to teaching its decrees and laws in Israel. -Ezra 7:10

Ezra is one of my heroes of the Bible. An exiled priest who helped lead the return of Jews to Jerusalem, he was known for three things–studying God’s Word, obeying it, and teaching it to others.

First, he was devoted to God’s Word. This means he had read it, meditated upon it, and even written it down at times. Some traditions claim Ezra had memorized the entire Torah, the first five books of the Old Testament. Even if this account is legend, it is a legend based on fact–the fact that Ezra had dedicated his life to knowing the words God had revealed.

Second, he observed the law. It’s one thing to read the Bible; it’s quite another to live it. Ezra was known for both his wisdom and his lifestyle that reflected God’s desires for his people.

Third, Ezra taught the Word of God to others. Those who know Scripture and live its principles are those best qualified to teach it.

Still today, God seeks such people. He has called us to study his Word, to live by it, and to teach it. Many have a Bible, yet few read it. Among those who do, fewer live it. Among those who live it, fewer are able to teach it. May God strengthen you and I to grow in wisdom and love through the power of his Word.

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Dillon Burroughs is the author and coauthor of numerous books and is handwriting a copy of all 31,173 verses of the Bible at HolyWritProject.com. Find out more about Dillon at Facebook.com/readdB or readdB.com.


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