In the book of Ezra, Ezra shared how the opposition to Israel sent a letter to the king of Persia, “then sent the king an answer unto Rehum the chancellor, and to Shimshai the scribe, and to the rest of their companions that dwell in Samaria, and unto the rest beyond the river, Peace, and at such a time”, and in chapter four and verse eighteen of Ezra, Ezra said, “the letter … has been plainly read” where we read,
The letter which you sent unto us has been plainly read before me.
The verse reads, “The letter which you sent unto us ...” Ezra began with the words, “the letter” which means “the missive or textual matter” “which you sent unto us” which means “that you, Rehum and Shimshai and their companions dispatched to us, king Artaxerxes and those in his realm”. Ezra shared how king Artaxerxes referred to the missive written and conveyed by “Rehum, Shimshai and their companions”.
The verse goes on to say, “... has been plainly read before me.” Ezra continued with the words, “has been plainly read before me” or “has been distinctly and specifically read aloud and proclaimed in front of me, king Artaxerxes”. Ezra shared how king Artaxerxes said the missive written by Rehum and Shimshai had been specifically proclaimed in his presence.
When we meditate upon the words in this verse, we learn through Ezra how king Artaxerxes began his letter of response to “Rehum, Shimshai and their companions” by sharing how he received their written textual matter. The answer to their complaint would be forthcoming, but for now let us consider that the adversaries' plot was progressing. God knew these things and allowed them, and at times, we also may feel like our enemy is advancing. We must keep in mind that God loves us, and He proved His love toward us by sending His Son Jesus into the world to die on the cross for the sins of all mankind. When we yield to Him as our personal “Savior and Lord”, He will forgive our sins, grant us everlasting life and assure us that He has a plan and purpose for our lives even when we feel like our foes are advancing in opposition to us.
Next time Ezra shares how the king says, “I commanded, and search has been made”, so read ahead, and we shall join together then.
Until tomorrow…there is more…
See more devotionals on the website "thewordfortodaywithray.com" or look for the daily devotional book “Equipped for Battle – From Generation to Generation”, the marriage book “So, You Want to Be Married”, “One Year in the Sermon on the Mount” and the new poetry book "Random Mushrooms Volumes I and II" and the new novel "Elizabeth County" in all major bookstore sites, http://www.amazon.com ; http://www.barnesandnobles.com ; download to e-books, and find it locally at www.mrzlc.com/bookstore. All references are from "Strongs Concordance".
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