Study, Do, Teach

The temple was completed (Ezra 6:16-18) and the Passover celebrated (Ezra 6:19-22). All that was missing was a restoration of the Book of the Law. For wherever there was spiritual renewal in the Old Testament, these two practices were found: the Passover and the preaching of the law (Joshua 1:1-9, 5:10-12; 2 Kings 22:8-23:27; Ezra 6:19-10:44).

So God sent Ezra. 

“ … the good hand of his God was on him. For Ezra had set his heart to study the Law of the LORD, and to do it and to teach his statutes and rules in Israel.” (Ezra 7:9-10)

God’s hand was on Ezra because he didn’t merely hear the Word. He studied so he could practice. And after practicing, he preached. 

The Lord poured an abundance of revelation on Ezra because he knew it wouldn’t be hoarded. Everything given to Ezra would flow to the world.

If your Bible reading feels dry, consider whether there is a dam in your posture. The Spirit will not send rapids of revelation toward an immobile heart.

“The one who looks into the perfect law, the law of liberty, and perseveres, being no hearer who forgets but a doer who acts, he will be blessed in his doing.” (James 1:25)

God rewards those who read to learn, and learn to practice, and practice to proclaim. He gives more bread to those who eat what they’ve been given—even more to those who take a bite and share what they’ve tasted with others.

Are you “setting your heart” to study the Word, to do what it says, and to give away what you learn?

Jesus wants to feed the crowds. He gives bottomless baskets of bread to those who will pass pieces wherever they go.