Ezra Journeys from Babylon to Jerusalem & King Artaxerxes Issues a Decree (Ezra 7:6, 11, 21, and 26)

Ezra came up from Babylon to Jerusalem. He was a teacher well versed in the Law of Moses, which the LORD, the God of Israel, had given. The king granted him everything he asked, for the hand of the LORD God was on him. Now I, King Artaxerxes, decree that all the treasures of Trans-Euphrates are to provide with diligence whatever Ezra the priest, the teacher of the Law of the God of heaven, may ask of you. Whoever does not obey the law of your God and the law of the king must surely be punished by death, banishment, confiscation of property, or imprisonment. It is true that whether or not you are a Child of God, Biblical principles provide for orderly and fair regulation by government. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. The king recognized that God was with Ezra so it was far better for him to seek divine blessing than to set his face against the Lord. This was also true of King Cyrus and King Darious before him. Unlike the Pharaoh of Egypt in years passed, who refused to let God's people go, in those days God sent ten plagues including death of all first born to win the cooperation of the king. This king understands God's sovereignty and aids the return of the exiles. Daily Prayer: Father, in all cases, your will be done. Nobody can deliver out of your hand. My error is that sometimes I mistake grace for favor and for a short period of time I look back at what I have done until I come to my senses and understand that all things are from your hand. All things that I do, no matter whether they be great or small, shall be done for your glory and honor. This I pray in your holy name Amen. NOTICE: This week in addition to daily devotions, podcast sermons are added for the purpose of recognizing important days of this holy week. Take time to check them out. May the Lord bless you.