Are You Prepared?
Ezra 7
For Ezra had prepared his heart to seek the law of the lord, and to do it, and to teach in Israel statutes and judgements.
Ezra 7:10 KJV
In reading this chapter this is the verse that stood out to me.
Ezra had studied the word of god so he would know god. After he studied the word and understood what it said, he lived it. After living the word, he taught others to do the same. This verse is what we all should be doing as christians, but are we.
Have you ever heard, do as I say, not as I do? As christians people are always watching to see if our actions match what we say. Why would anyone want to follow us if our actions and our words to not line up?
Actions speak louder than words is another phrase I heard growing up, but it’s so true.
Ezra had favor because he first sought after God and prepared his heart so he could know him. Only then could he live the way he knew god wanted him to.
I think about this in my own life. Am I truly preparing my heart before I read and study so that I can understand what god is trying to show me. Am I meditating on his word and taking time in prayer, seeking him and what he has for me in this season. This has to be the very first step. It seems so basic, but I feel like it is overlooked. In our fast paced society we don’t slow down and truly prepare ourselves for what god has for us.
After taking this first step, then I can do what god has for me to do and only then can I teach others to do the same.
Jesus thank you for your word. Help me so slow down so that I can receive and understand what you have for me. Forgive me for not taking more time to slow down and listen for your still small voice. Help me to do what you have called me to do and help others to do the same. In Jesus name, amen.
Amen!