In today’s reading, the Jews resume rebuilding the temple despite opposition. King Darius confirms Cyrus’s decree, which leads to the temple’s completion. We also meet Ezra, who introduces himself as a priest and an expert in the law of the God of heaven.
Before you begin
Ask the Lord to give you a fresh sense of wonder as you read His Word. Pray for understanding and for an open, humble, obedient heart to receive what He wants to say to you.
Read
Review
Write a sentence or two about what you've just read. This could be a summary of the passage or an observation or highlight that stood out to you.
Reflect
Though the Jews were faithfully doing the work the Lord called them to, they still faced opposition from those around them. How can encouragement from God’s Word strengthen His people to persevere through trials and challenges?
"When we fail, when we struggle, when we doubt, when we’re in need, our High Priest Himself, who offered His life for our sins, is always praying for us. And because He lives to intercede for us, we will never encounter a day that we cannot endure." —Nancy DeMoss Wolgemuth1
Respond
Write a short prayer, based on today’s reading. This could include praise, gratitude, personal confession, agreement with the truth, or a request for yourself or someone else.
1Incomparable, p. 223
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Takeaway Thought
What key verse or insight will you take with you into your day?