When Jerusalem was rebuilt by the Jews after the Babylonian captivity, Nehemiah represented the organization and construction side and Ezra was the priestly side.

Ezra was so greatly burdened by the sin and backsliding of the Jews that he sought the Lord in fasting and prayer and great humility. God heard him and moved upon the people to rededicate themselves to His law by forsaking the many forms of sin they had adopted.

One man’s prayer and burden affected the entire movement. All God needs is one.

PRAYER: Father in Heaven, stir us to all be singular advocates for a fresh move of Your Spirit. As we enter a new year, we commit ourselves to a fresh dedication to holiness and evangelism for the sake of the Gospel.

READING: Exra 7-10