Ezra 8:31-34 – The LORD’s Gracious Protection
We have read previously of the search for Levites to come along on this journey as well as of the fast Ezra proclaimed. Between these events and the general organizing of the expedition, the people are encamped by the river Ahava for twelve days before setting out. As we learned back in chapter seven, the journey would take nearly four months to complete. This is not hard to understand when we consider that this included moving whole families, likely with household goods. Moreover, there were the many tons of treasures of which to keep account, haul and guard.
When Ezra and his followers arrive at Jerusalem, they wait three days and then deliver the treasures to the Temple. This probably allowed time for the newly arrived priests and Levites to be consecrated before entering the Temple. According to Ezra’s commission to them, they bring the silver, gold and vessels to the Temple, where it is counted and weighed.
That they are able to arrive safely and with all these treasures still intact is a testimony to the LORD’s gracious protection and His answer to their prayers. In fact, the language of verse 31 suggests they did encounter trouble on the way. It could be that bandits attempted to raid Ezra’s caravan, but any such attempt failed. Thus, Ezra could declare of God, “He delivered us from the hand of the enemy and from ambushes along the way.”
We have no guarantee from God that we will not see danger in this world. Christians are often mistreated and even killed for the sake of Christ and His Gospel. Nevertheless, He does promise to bring His Church through the dangers of this world and gather His people finally in His heavenly Jerusalem. History is rife with the accounts of Christians who, with their eyes fixed firmly on the world to come, have accomplished astounding things for the advancement of Christ’s Kingdom, despite great danger and opposition.
Questions
- How do these events testify to the LORD’s gracious protection?
- What encouragement might we take from this?
Prayer Points
- Pray for confidence and courage to accomplish great things in God’s service.
- Use prayer points from your congregation.
- Pray for family matters.