Let's read the Bible
Week 33 Ezra, Nehemiah, Esther
August 20, 2021
This week we will read about three people who accomplished great things for the nation of Israel. Ezra, Nehemiah and Esther each served God and His people. They were people of extraordinary will, determination, and courage, each facing danger and adversity while doing what was needed.
Ezra rebuilt the temple in Jerusalem while foes tried to prevent this from being done. God allowed the temple and Jerusalem to be destroyed because of the disobedience of the people. The people were scattered but Ezra gathered people and materials and led the work of rebuilding.
Nehemiah obtained permission from the King of Persia to rebuild the wall around the city of Jerusalem. He and a small number of people rebuilt the wall in 52 days because they “had a will to work.” Adversaries threatened them, but they worked with weapons at hand. Following this Ezra read the Law of Moses to the people and rededicated the temple. According to the census the number of workers was very small in comparison to the mighty nation of previous generations.
Esther, who was a young Jewish woman, married the king, saved his life, and later saved the nation of Israel from being destroyed. Her uncle, Mordecai, was given great authority in the kingdom and the future of God’s people was secured.
These are great examples of God working through courageous and determined people to accomplish His purposes. These are attributes His people still need today, no matter the task.
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