Ezra 2:1 Now these are the people of the province who came up from the captivity of the exiles, whom Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon had taken captive to Babylon….
Commentary on this chapter put me in mind of the idea blessings abounding when you look for them because it talked about the captives going into exile stripped of everything and now returning “abounding in the most substantial riches…. Thus we find God, in the midst of judgement, remembered mercy….”
Ezra 2:64 The whole company numbered 42,360.
Today is Monday. It is raining. It would be easy to fall into the trap of last week—fear, anger, stress. But I don’t wish to. And I know I have the power not to go there with my thoughts because my precious Savior is sovereign and in control. He has given me a spirit “of power, love, and self-discipline” (2 Tim 1:7).
Ezra 2:68 When they arrived at the house of the LORD in Jerusalem, some of the heads of the families gave freewill offerings toward the rebuilding of the house of God on its site.
Lord, Thank You for this day and this scripture. Thank You for the reminder that You are in control and that I can direct my thoughts to the blessings in my life. Thank You for the many blessings, for Your graciousness, mercy, and love. Help me to focus on You. Draw me closer. Amen.
Ezra 2:70 The priests, the Levites, the musicians, the gatekeepers and the temple servants settled in their own towns, along with some of the other people, the rest of the Israelites settled in their towns.
Have a blessed day.