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Ezra 9-10 – Praying through the Bible #146 – A Prayer for Repeat Offenders
Big sins often begin with small steps. Returning from exile, never again do the Jews commit idolatry. But they easily could have, had it not been for Ezra. The leaders report, “the Israelite men have taken some of their daughters as wives for themselves and their sons;” and “the leaders and officials have taken the lead in this unfaithfulness” (Ezra 9.1-2). Lust, sex, and convenience often lead to sin. Big sins often begin with small leaders.
What follows is Ezra’s demonstrative devastation by his tearing his tunic and robe and pulling out some of the hair from his head and beard (9.3). Ezra had just recently arrived. This national sin is not Ezra’s fault, nor is he overwhelmed by his own sin. Repentance often begins with the right leaders.
The Holy Spirit records Ezra’s sorrowful supplication (vv.6-15). Unlike our American individualism, Ezra does not consider himself apart from the masses: “My God, I am ashamed and embarrassed to lift my face toward You, my God, because our iniquities are higher than our heads and our guilt is as high as the heaven” (9.6). Solid leadership often begins with solidarity. There is no blaming God for past suffering: “Because of our iniquities we have been handed over, along with our kings and priests, to the surrounding kings, and to the sword, captivity, plundering and open shame” (9.7). Healing often begins with honesty. God is not only the purveyor of punishment, but is the giver of grace: “But now, for a brief moment, grace has come from Yahweh our God to preserve a remnant for us and give us a stake in His holy place. Even in our slavery, God has given us new life and light to our eyes” (9.8). Growth often begins with gratitude. Despite great grace, these survivors again commit the same sins of their fathers, which eventually led to idolatry and expulsion (9.10-15). Being saved does not save us from repeating sins, and possible future punishment (9.14). Even recognizing we have been punished less than our sins deserve and have been allowed to survive isn’t enough incentive to keep us pure (9.13). Too often we want to forget the past instead of allowing it to caution our steps. Warnings often lead to wise decisions.
Following Ezra’s leadership, the Israelites do the necessary and difficult. After Ezra confessed for them, they now confess themselves: “We have been unfaithful to our God by marrying foreign women” (10.2). These great sinners amazingly still believe in the greatness of God’s grace: “but there is still hope for Israel in spite of this” (10.2). They know God prefers forgiveness over punishment! Their confession is accompanied by action: “Let it be done according to the law” (10.3). Their action is accompanied by cooperation: “Get up, for this matter is your responsibility, and we support you. Be strong and take action” (10.4). Big revivals often begin with small steps.
Prayer Challenge: Whether a leader or not, don’t be overwhelmed by the gravity of any sin. In prayer small steps can lead to big changes.
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