Learn, Obey, Teach
“For Ezra had devoted himself to the study and observance of the Law of the LORD, and to teaching its decrees and laws in Israel.” Ezra 7:10 (NIV)
The New American Standard Version reads “For Ezra had set his heart…” and
The Contemporary English Version says “Ezra had spent his entire life studying and obeying the Law of the Lord and teaching it to others”. The KJV and the NKJV reads that “Ezra had prepared his heart…”
Notice that the beginning of study and preparation to serve the Lord begins in the heart. In the mind of each of us we determine and purpose to dedicate ourselves to learning about God and doing what He wants us to do. This purpose in life is three-fold, but begins in our minds. We need to learn about God and what God speaks to us, and the reason is so that we can please God. This is done by our obedience to His commands, decrees, statutes, testimonies, laws, etc. And once we learn to obey God, our duty is to share what we know about God with others. Matthew 5:16 says “…Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” See, our purpose in this life is to glorify God and give Him the glory. Our example and influence should cause others to do the same thing. What Ezra purposed to learn was the Law of the Lord. That is what the Bible is. We should also desire and make it a lifelong effort to learn and know what the Bible teaches, so that we can follow its teachings and eventually let our light shine that others will be encouraged to do the same thing. Our world will be a better place when we show more respect for God and His word in our little corner of the world. You may not do anything that affects people in other places, but you do have a lot to do with those around you. If you claim to be a Christian, do you develop your faith as Ezra did? James 4:17 says that to know the right thing to do, and not do it is the same as committing sin. The right thing is to learn God’s laws and obey them and teach others how to obey them. Why not follow the Bible and begin your spiritual journey again. Let us help you. To start, you must do it God’s way.
You must believe that Jesus is the Son of God and died on the cross for your sins. (Acts 8:37). You must repent of your sins (Luke 13:3) you must confess Jesus as Lord (Matthew 10:32) and you must be baptized for the remission of your sins (Acts 2:38; 22:16). Then you must remain faithful and continue learning (2 Peter 3:18). May God bless you in your study of His word.
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By Carey Scott via the Madisonville Meteor, 5/21/2008

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