August 7

Today's Reading

It's beautiful and amazing that, in Ezra today, the people re-started the work on the Temple based on the prophetic word they received. Then, after they started by faith, God allowed "sight" to catch up. First, they faced opposition, then received the surprise support of King Darius. They probably didn't know that, on the other end of this communication was a king who had received great help from God's wisdom through a man named Daniel. Even during opposition, Daniel remained faithful and Darius rejoiced when he came in the morning to the den of lions and found Daniel alive. God knows how to accomplish His purposes!

I once read this passage the day after a U.S. District Court Judge overturned the voters of California and legalized same-sex marriages. The Ezra passage yesterday told of the delay that happened when an appeal was made to a new king and he stopped the construction of the Temple. God, though, wanted that Temple built and Darius cleared the way. Never doubt God's power to ultimately accomplish His purposes.

1 Corinthians. Paul made it clear that the people needed to learn to follow Christ. It is both an honor and a source of godly fear on the part of a leader to discover that people want to follow him/her. Godly leaders want people to turn their faith to God, for only He can meet their deepest needs.

Psalms. Anyone who has lived through a tornado or a hurricane and who reads this Psalm, will have awe over the great "voice of the Lord."

Proverbs. I have noticed that sometimes my motives are hidden even from me. God has a way of purifying us by heating up our lives and showing us what is in our hearts. Then, I can confess my wrong heart and let God cleanse me and help me reflect the light of Jesus more clearly."

What do you notice today? Questions?