September Schedules
September signals changes and a new schedule. If we are moms, the squares on our calendars begin to fill with music lessons, sports events and school activities rather than swimming lessons and picnics. Summer clothes are packed away. Even our grocery list begins to change as we move from cold salads and meat to grill, to warm comfort foods. September also signals decisions about our own activities. Young moms may be pondering joining a MOPS (Mothers of Pre-schoolers) group. Others may decide to join a gym or begin a walking program. Churches offer Bible studies. We have many activities to choose from as we seek to develop ourselves as women.
Bible study at our church begins in two weeks and we are studying Old Testament characters and the faith (or lack of it) that accompanied their journeys. One of the characters that we are studying is Ezra. Ezra isn’t exactly a household name. I don’t ever recall my daughters coming home from Sunday school telling me that they learned about Ezra! He’s fairly obscure compared to other spiritual giants like David or the apostle Paul, but tucked away in this short book of ten chapters, are nuggets of truth and a role model worth considering.
"For Ezra had devoted himself to the study and observance of the Law of the Lord, and to teaching its decrees and laws in Israel." (Ezra 7:10) Ezra was a man who devoured the word of God and used it for his life standard. Rather than compromise, he was determined to have his life line up with what God said, rather than try to fit God into his plans. Scripture tells us that Ezra studied the word, taught it to others, and even copied it so that it was preserved. When faced with difficult decisions, Ezra was unwavering in doing the right thing.
Perhaps your fall schedule hasn’t been finalized. Maybe it has, and you are rethinking your priorities. Consider following Ezra’s example and look for a Bible study group. Join with other women and study together. You will see life-changing results, not only because you grow, but because you can be like Ezra, a person of influence, as you share truth written on your life.
Reflections:
Read the book of Ezra and look for the times Ezra prayed, how he prayed, and what he said in those prayers.
Maybe you never heard about Ezra before. He does appear to be an obscure character, but to God, no one is obscure. God knows every detail about you. Look up these passages and be encouraged today: Psalm 139 and Matthew 10:30. © Marilyn Nutter 2007
