A Ready Heart for a Holy Work // Ezra 7:6, 10
Theme: God uses those who are prepared, pure, and passionate about His Word.
Key Verse:
“For Ezra had prepared his heart to seek the law of the LORD, and to do it, and to teach in Israel statutes and judgments.” — Ezra 7:10 (KJV)
1. A Sincere Preparation (v. 10a)
“For Ezra had prepared his heart…”
Application: God uses those who make spiritual preparation a personal priority. Ezra didn’t wait to be stirred—he set his heart to seek God.
Practical Tip: Begin each day by preparing your heart in prayer and humility before the Lord.
Question: Are you preparing your heart, or are you simply coasting spiritually?
2. A Steady Pursuit (v. 10b)
“…to seek the law of the LORD…”
Application: Ezra made it his mission to know God’s Word intimately. This was not casual reading—it was intentional seeking.
Practical Tip: Set time to study, not just skim. Prioritize depth over speed in your Bible time.
Question: Are you chasing after the Word, or are you waiting for spiritual maturity to just “happen”?
3. A Submitted Practice (v. 10c)
“…and to do it…”
Application: Ezra didn’t stop with learning; he lived what he learned. God blesses obedience, not just accumulated knowledge.
Practical Tip: Apply one truth each week in a tangible way—whether in speech, service, or self-control.
Question: Is your life changing because of the Bible, or are you only gaining information?
4. A Scriptural Proclamation (v. 10d)
“…and to teach in Israel statutes and judgments.”
Application: A heart filled with God’s Word overflows into ministry. Teaching is a natural result of personal transformation.
Practical Tip: Look for ways to share what you’re learning—at home, at church, or online.
Question: Who are you discipling or encouraging with the truth God is teaching you?
Conclusion:
God used Ezra not because of his position, but because of his preparation. He had a ready heart, a resolved will, and a reverent lifestyle. The pattern still holds: prepare, pursue, practice, and proclaim.
Call to Action:
Will you prepare your heart today like Ezra did, so that God can work through you tomorrow?