Day 259

Ezra 4:7-23; 7:1-8:36. “Adopted by God”

         “If God is for us, who can ever be against us?” – Romans 8:31b
         Three times in the seventh chapter of Ezra, the text says “the gracious hand” of the Lord was upon Ezra.  Also in 7:28, Ezra states that this was a great source of encouragement for him in knowing that the hand of the Lord was on him.
         There is a similar source of encouragement for us today as New Testament believers and partakers of a new and better covenant.  Paul picks up on this theme in Romans 8:31.  As believers who have been adopted into God’s family (Rom. 8:15), we share in His treasures (Rom. 8:17) for we are co-heirs with Christ.
         So, take courage, believer!  As one who is now adopted by God, know that there is nothing that can separate you from His love (Rom. 8:35).  There is no greater source of joy or encouragement for us than to know that the One who created us has also redeemed us and has secured our salvation.

General Questions for each day:
Summarize the day’s Bible passage in your own words.
What thoughts, actions, attitudes or beliefs are addressed in the passage?
How is the Holy Spirit leading you to apply this passage to your life today?