Ezra 4:1-10:44

What God said to me – I have set before you My word as a light to give you instruction and direction as to how you should live in order to please Me.  My instructions are for your protection and benefit.  I want only what is best for you . . . for you to live life abundantly and prosper.  The consequences of disobedience are devastating, not just to you, but to others as well.  Once you have slipped into disobedience falling into the ways of the world comes easily.  The further you go away from Me, the more difficult repentance becomes and the price more costly.  Hold on to Me,  stay close so you won’t fall into the traps of disobedience.

Ezra 1:1-3:13

What God said to me – I have a plan that I have revealed in My word and nothing can prevent My plan from being fulfilled.  When it was time for My people to come out of captivity and rebuild My temple, I moved the heart of King Cyrus, king of Persia to issue a decree.  I moved in the hearts of the people I called to go and do the work and the temple was rebuilt as I prophesied through Jeremiah.  I can use anyone or anything to accomplish My purposes whether they realize it or not, whether they willingly cooperate or not.  Spend time in My word.  Seek My face.  Seek My direction so you become a willing participant in accomplishing My purposes in the world.  I long for My people to want to be used by Me.  Surrender yourself to Me.