THE STORY OF JESUS: Ezra 7-8
“Because the hand of the Lord my God was on me, I took courage.” (Ezra 7:28)
I saw a video of a young boy struggling to catch a large, heavy fish.
The boy was visibly upset, he was pleading with his dad for help.
Dad put his hands around his son’s hands, and the boy smiled as he started reeling it in.
By himself the boy could not do it, but with His father’s hand on him, he took courage.
Ezra faced a daunting task, going to Israel to rebuild the temple from ruins.
Where would he get the money, the manpower, and how could he succeed without help.
But then God’s hands – in the form of the king’s support – surround him.
An official letter, gold and silver and permission to take anyone who wanted to go.
Ezra sensed the Lord’s backing, and this gave him courage!
I stand before a daunting task, beginning a new ministry in a larger church.
But I too have seen signs of the Lord’s hands, and I am encouraged.
As Jesus followers committed to Jesus’ work, we can count in His support.
When He commissioned us, He also promised to be with us always, to the end!
Where is He leading you to serve, and are you finding courage in His hands?
What do you sense the Lord saying to you?
PRAYER
Lord, thank You for the sense of Your hands. Help me to expect great things from You, help me to attempt great things for You… knowing You are with me!