Thanks For The Food, Amen

Read Ezra 7:1–8:36

21. By the Ahava Canal, I gave orders for all of us to fast and humble ourselves before our God. We prayed that he would give us a safe journey and protect us, our children, and our goods as we traveled.
22. For I was ashamed to ask the king for soldiers and horsemen to accompany us and protect us from enemies along the way. After all, we had told the king, “Our God’s hand of protection is on all who worship him, but his fierce anger rages against those who abandon him.”
23. So we fasted and earnestly prayed that our God would take care of us, and he heard our prayer. Ezra 8:21-23

Family camping trips are supposed to be great fun, but too often a sense of dread accompanies them. It’s all too easy to leave something crucial behind. One time it’s the tent. Another time it’s the food. Sound familiar?

The second group of exiles returns to Jerusalem from Babylonia, led by Ezra. But before they set out they have some important preparations to make, and Ezra makes sure they don’t forget the most crucial ones. As you read, learn how to get prepared for any task God gives you.

In this passage you will find these other lessons: the qualities of an exemplary leader in action; acknowledging God’s help and protection; and using your gifts and abilities for God’s service.

Ezra knew God’s promises to protect his people, but he didn’t take God for granted. He also knew that God’s blessings come through prayer. So Ezra and the people humbled themselves by fasting and praying (Ezra 8:21-23). Fasting humbled the people because going without food was a reminder of their complete dependence on God. Fasting also gave them time to pray and think about God.

Too often, we pray glibly and superficially. We don’t take time out from our busy schedules to commune with God seriously. Fasting is one way to free up the time to pray to God earnestly.

We need to take time to pray seriously. Not taking the time is an insult to God. When we approach him with our quick, unthoughtful prayers, we reduce him to a quick-service pharmacist with painkillers for every ailment. Serious prayer puts us in touch with God’s will for our lives and can really change our hearts and minds.

Make time for prayer in which you concentrate on what you are saying and why you’re saying it. That’s the only way to be fully prepared for life. How much time do you spend in preparation?