Grasp the Gospel — Bible Comprehension Quizzes

Ezra 8 Devotional

Fasting Instead of an Escort

“So we fasted and petitioned our God about this, and He granted our request.”Ezra 8:23 (BSB)

At the Ahava Canal, Ezra finds no Levites, sends for them, and credits their arrival to the gracious hand of God (8:15-20). Ezra had told the king that God's hand is gracious to all who seek him, and now he is ashamed to ask for soldiers to protect them on the road (8:22). So the people fast, humble themselves, and ask God for a safe journey for their families and goods. He grants their request (8:21-23).

Trust does not make Ezra careless. He weighs out the silver and gold to priests and Levites, reminds them that they and the articles are holy to the LORD, and has everything checked by number and weight on arrival (8:24-34). Paul took similar care with a gift, to do right before both the Lord and people (2 Corinthians 8:20-21). In the end, the hand of God protected them from enemies and bandits along the way (8:31). You can bring your fears to the same God and handle what he entrusts to you with care.

To think about: What journey or responsibility ahead of you could you bring to God in prayer before you rely on anything else?

About Ezra 8: Ezra’s Company Returns Safely

Ezra records the families who return with him, recruits Levites for the temple, and leads a fast to seek God’s protection rather than asking the king for soldiers. He entrusts the temple treasure to priests, God guards the group on the road, and they arrive and offer sacrifices for all Israel.

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