October 7, 2015:  SOAP #2134:

Scripture:  Ezra (NIV) 8:22 I [Ezra] was ashamed to ask the king for soldiers and horsemen to protect us from enemies on the road, because we had told the king, “The gracious hand of our God is on everyone who looks to him, but his great anger is against all who forsake him.”

Observation:   Ezra was on assignment from the Lord to return to Israel and help with the rebuilding of the temple and re-establishing the worship of the God.   They carried a large offering and thought about the possibility of being robbed.  Ezra was a man of integrity.  He would not talk one way then act another.  He had been bragging about the greatness of the God of Israel.  He would not then ask the king of Babylon to have soldiers accompany and protect them on their journey to Jerusalem.  If their God was as great as Ezra had said, they could expect Him to protect them!

Application:    When I am faithful to carry out the assignment God has given me, I can expect to receive favor from God and also from people.  I am blest and grateful when people extend kindness to myself as a pastor, but I do not ever want to ask for it or expect it.  My Heavenly Father is my provider and He is able to provide enough for me to pay the full price for whatever I need.  The church does not need to beg for a discount.  If I ask for a discount my testimony could be taken as God is too cheap to provide enough for me to pay the full price.

Prayer:   Lord, I want my life and my actions to properly portray your true character to the world around me.  By listening to what I say and watching what I do, may the world come to know that you are an Amazing God!  Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!