In Ezra 8, the godly scribe Ezra, preparing to embark on a journey fraught with danger, tells the king that their God’s favor is with them, “[his] hand is for good on all who seek him.”
At a pivotal point in his journey, he leads his fellow exiles to stop and pray (Nehemiah 8:21-23). He knows what he has stated to the king is true, and realizes that fear, or dependence on their sponsors to provide security detail, would be proof of empty words and weak faith. He applies the truth by gathering his people to beseech their mighty God, their Shield and Guide and Protector, then applies faith’s practical wisdom by dividing the treasures among his priests as a precaution through bandit-ridden territory.
How thoroughly do I pray and act on what I know is true? Do I boldly step in the water to see it part? (Joshua 3:9-17) We do what we do because we believe what we believe. Nehemiah’s brave faith influenced all who traveled with him—imagine how their hearts anticipated God’s care, and eyes were enlightened to behold His sufficiency!
Oh God, give me understanding to know You and Your supply, the faith to seek You, a mouth to declare Your truth, and the courage to act on it.
