Consider that this trek consisted of over 900 miles on foot. But also consider that there would have been 1754 men that Ezra had to lead, and with women and children, that number was probably more like 7000 people!
Then I proclaimed a fast there at the river of Ahava, that we might humble ourselves before our God to seek from Him a safe journey for us, our little ones, and all our possessions. 22 For I was ashamed to request from the king troops and horsemen to protect us from the enemy on the way, because we had said to the king, “The hand of our God is favorably disposed to all those who seek Him, but His power and His anger are against all those who forsake Him.” 23 So we fasted and sought our God concerning this matter, and He listened to our entreaty.
Ezra 8:21-23 NASB
Ezra put more concern on the glory of God being proclaimed than he did with his own personal safety. This is such an impactful thought for me today. Traveling over 900 miles on foot was no easy task. It would have been assumed that at some point the group would have been confronted by thieves who robbed for survival. Messengers of that day traveled with caravans to increase their safety and protection.
Ezra could have easily requested for the king’s troops to escort him on this long journey, however, it would have compromised his claim to the king about the power and sovereignty of his Lord. The king would have naturally thought, “If you confidently serve this all-powerful God, then why would you need my soldiers?”
So, what did Ezra do? He led the people into intense fasting and prayer for God’s protection. Take note, the protection was attached to a huge leap of faith. It was not a request based on comfort or laziness. It was a request that God’s name would be made famous among the king and his royal court. This is what Ezra literally put his life on the line for. His concern was with God’s glory and in order to accomplish this, he intentionally placed himself in a situation where he was in great trouble if God didn’t show up.
Of course, we read that God DID show up. I wonder, today, what this looks like for us? What does this look like for you? Are we consistent with what we say and how we live? This comes down to a Holy Spirit issue. I don’t think this application can be universally applied to all scenarios we encounter, but it is worth considering that maybe we are selling God short because we love to control things?
Ezra gave up control and sought God intensely so that His name would become famous. Seek the Spirit in this matter. Pray and ask for conviction and guidance on how you personally are trying to control a situation where God’s glory might be compromised. Pray for increased faith and trust with these situations.
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Trust God in all situations. Pray and believe that God is faithful.