MEN - Devote

According to the free dictionary, devote is defined as “to give or apply one’s time, attention or self entirely to a particular activity, cause or person”.

Ezra 7:10 (NIV)

 Ezra had devoted himself to the study and observance of the Law of the Lord, and to teaching its decrees and laws in Israel.

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Ezra 7:6 (NIV)

this Ezra came up from Babylon. He was a teacher well versed in the Law of Moses, which the Lord, the God of Israel, had given.

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Nehemiah 8:9b (NIV)

…Ezra the priest and teacher of the Law…

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Ezra 7:12b (NIV)

To Ezra the priest, teacher of the Law of the God of heaven:

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Ezra is a biblical male character whom the bible describes as devoted, a scribe/priest, teacher of the Law. 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 (NIV).

No wonder he was very outstanding in his leadership and teaching - because his foundation was the Word of God. Scripture is very clear about what Ezra’s priority was – studying and observing the Law of the Lord.

Could you say of yourself likewise?

Could others say of you likewise?

Can the almighty God say of you likewise?

What will it take for you to restructure your life such that you give attention to the Word?

You will agree with me that if everything is that important, you need the breath of life in order to keep pursuing. Why not show appreciation to the giver? How high you go will be determined by how stable your foundation is. A life built on the Word of God is an unshakable life. There is so much to be studied in life however, our goal is to stir you in the direction that matters most.

The outcome of devotion are enormous.

2 Peter 1:2-3 (NIV)

Grace and peace be yours in abundance through the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord.

His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness.

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Choose to be that person who abounds in knowledge of the Word. As a result, it becomes evident in your character.

What will it take to be devoted to the Law of the LORD (Word)?

-Decision

-Focus, despite distractions.

-Giving attention to the Word.

-Purposefully studying (not just reading) with a mind to understand God, gain wisdom, and get direction. Through devotion, you get direction, you discover God’s purpose for you.

Ezra taught the decrees in Israel. The location and population were specific.

Ezra 7:10b (NIV)

… and to teaching its decrees and laws in Israel.

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Consider making a life of devotion to studying and observing the Word a lifestyle. Amen!