Day 130- Ezra 8-10, Psalm 130

In Ezra 8, Ezra leads the people on a dangerous journey back to Jerusalem. He fasts and prays instead of asking the king for protection, and God delivers them safely.

In Ezra 9, Ezra is devastated to learn that many of the people, including leaders, have intermarried with pagan nations, endangering their spiritual identity. True leadership includes taking responsibility and grieving over sin, not just pointing fingers. Ezra was a true leader because he felt the burden and weight of their sin.

In Ezra 10, the people respond to Ezra’s call and take bold steps to separate themselves from sin, including ending inappropriate marriages. It’s painful, but they choose obedience. Real change might hurt, but it also heals.

In Psalm 130, the writer is in a dark place, deep regret, big emotions, he cries out to God. Instead of sinking, he leans into God’s mercy and waits with hope.