Ezra, chapter 9 | Pablo Rios

The power of the intercessory prayer. – Pray for one another and feel the power of the Holy spirit at work.

Our verse of reference in Ezra 9 is:

“Then, at the evening sacrifice, I rose from my self-abasement, with my tunic and cloak torn, and fell on my knees with my hands spread out to the Lord my God” (Ezra 9:5 NIV).

Reflection

EXPERIENCING SORROW FOR SIN

Historical Commentary.- A good number of those who had returned to Jerusalem in previous years, had remained faithful to God, but a considerable proportion of their children and grandchildren had forgotten the sacredness of the God’s law. Furthermore many of them lived in open sin with complete disregard for the law of God. So when Ezra learned that despite the lessons of the past, eminent men had dared to transgress the laws given, his heart was touched and overwhelmed with righteous indignation and regret because of the ingratitude of the people. He says: ” When I heard this, I tore my tunic and cloak, pulled hair from my head and beard and sat down appalled. Then everyone who trembled at the words of the God of Israel gathered around me because of this unfaithfulness of the exiles. And I sat there appalled until the evening sacrifice.” (Verses 3, 4). PR 455.

Sadness for the sins. – When Ezra learned about the sins being committed, he tore his clothes and even ripped hair from his head. This anguish was not exaggerated, Ezra thought that the consequences of these faults could bring divine disapproval the stop of all the blessings that God was providing. We should also learn that in our day we need to love the sinners, but never approve the sins committed.

Intercessory Prayer. – At the time of sacrifice, it was also the right time for confession of sins, Ezra took this opportunity to talk to God and expresses one of the most moving intercessory prayers recorded in the Bible. Ezra includes himself as one of the sinners and ask God to extend His mercy. Learn to practice the intercessory prayer, we can start this week to intercede for one relative or friend who is far from God, sick, or needy.

Prayer

Merciful Father. This week we want to practice intercessory prayers for our families. We personally pray for the health of our relative Sylvia Rios de Moreno, we thank you for the results and recovery from her surgery please continue to work in her and restore her to full health. In the name of Jesus, amen.

By Dr. Franz Rios and Pablo Rios.

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