Bible Study & Devotional 217
Written by: Torrie Slaughter
Guiding Scripture: 1 Corinthians 1:20, ‘Where is the wise man (the philosopher)? Where is the scribe (the scholar)? Where is the investigator (the logician, the debater) of this present time and age? Has not God shown up the nonsense and the folly of this world’s wisdom?’
🔴 Restore-Rebuild-Repeat?
The book of Ezra-Nehemiah is one disappointment after another. Each section takes us on an emotional roller coaster. We are filled with hope as the children of Israel return from Babylonian captivity. They are supplied with resources and spiritual wisdom to rebuild their community. (Hallelujah!) The list of the exiles returning to reclaim their land gives us a reason for belief. A heartfelt joy that the world would see God magnified.
And Then…
I don’t want to ruin the ‘ending’ of these books, but even the leaders got caught up in their plight to right the wrongs without God’s permission. Have you ever tried to do something outside of the God’s will?
Repeat Behavior
Ezra-Nehemiah took place about 458 years before Christ. And as we turn the page to the letter written to the Corinthians around 51 AD, 20 years after Christ’s resurrection-thoughts of disappointment invade our minds.
If ever there was a pause to think about how slowly things change or how existing without God is unbeneficial. This is another example.
As you read today, think about Christ’s crucifixion and why it continues to be a stumbling block for believers and unbelievers. Add to that; the Roman Empire’s political advancements with its sights on wealth and prosperity. In contrast, we have Jesus, who came to be a servant. He is the Treasure and exceeds anything humans could seek to gain.
Where do you place your faith? In the power of man or the Eternal Wisdom of God?
John Tillotson wrote, ” Next to the wicked lives of men, nothing is so great a disparagement and weakening to religion as the division of Christians.”
Through Christ, we are restored and made new.
We are meant to be instruments that God uses to bring knowledge. His trust in us as His image-bearers requires a foundation built on His loving Truth.
🔴 The Bible In A Year Daily Reading Plan
Ezra 1:1-2:70, 1 Corinthians 1:18-2:5, Psalm 27:7-14, Proverbs 20:22-23
This devotional was written by Torrie Slaughter the founder of Our Given Purpose® for A Daily Purpose Bible Study & Devotional. Want to hear more? Tune in on Mondays and listen to Our Given Purpose the Podcast and on Fridays to Talking on Purpose with Torrie the Podcast & Internet Show. Torrie also hosts a YouTube channel of the same name.
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Wonderful, and perfect for the moment, thank you,🙏🏾🎉