Pastor Bob DuPar
August 6, 2008

Journal Entry



Scripture

Ezra 3:1-4:24; 1 Corinthians 2:6-3:4; Psalm 28:1-9; Proverbs 20:24-25

Observation

I love Ezra 3:3, “Despite their fear of the people around them, they built an altar…offered both morning and evening sacrifices” and honored God by their obedience.

It would have been pretty discouraging to lay the foundation of the new temple while the older priests are weeping because it pales in comparison to Solomon’s temple. That would be just a little demotivating to say the least.

What a blessing that God’s wisdom, previously hidden but now revealed through Christ, has been “destined by God for our glory before time began.
(1 Corinthians 2:7)

What a beautiful promise in 2:9,

“No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love Him.”

And, 2:10-2:16,

“The Spirit searches all things, even the deep things of God. …no one knows the thoughts of God except the Spirit of God. We have not received the spirit of the world but the Spirit who is from God, that we may understand what God has freely given us. …For who has known the mind of the Lord that he may instruct Him? But we have the mind of Christ!”

Finally, what a wonderful prayer and picture in Psalm 28:9,

“Save Your people and bless Your inheritance; be their shepherd and carry them forever.”

Application

Obedience and blessing often result when our actions are not influenced or restricted by our fear of people.

There’s a huge blessing and accountability that comes with having the mind of Christ. Jesus said that to whom much is given much is required.

Prayer

“Lord, thank You that we are Your inheritance, Your children, Your prized possession. Be our Shepherd and carry us forever – even when we don’t want to be carried or feel that we’re too big to be carried.”