Author Archives: Jefferson Vann
none can stand
Ezra 9 God had granted his people a little reviving, and that had served to highlight the faithlessness of the people. They had intermarried with the idolatrous nations around them – something that the LORD told them not to do. … Continue reading
shore to shore
Psalm 72 This psalm is a prayer for a righteous and prosperous reign of the king in Jerusalem. The prayer was partially fulfilled by the amazing life and reign of Solomon, but it looks to a greater fulfillment in the … Continue reading
an act of faith
Ezra 8 This wave of returnees to Jerusalem was gathered at the river, but Ezra discovered that he had no Levites with him. It was important to bring members of this group because they would be able to assist the … Continue reading
in the time of old age
Psalm 71 This is a song of an aging man, who has known much trouble but can testify that God has been his refuge all the way. It is a plea for the LORD to keep supporting and comforting his … Continue reading
such a thing as this
Ezra 7 Ezra finally shows up in the book with his name on it. He thanks God for putting “such a thing as this” in the heart of king Artaxerxes. Was it simply benevolence that God put on the king’s … Continue reading
do not delay
Psalm 70 Perhaps the enemies have just discovered a weakness they think might just be the undoing of the faithful servant. It seems like they have just discovered the angle that will lead them to finally bring God’s man down. … Continue reading
surprise!
Ezra 6 King Darius of the Medo-Persian empire now issues an even stronger edict to ensure that the remnant of Israel is helped and the temple is reconstructed. They celebrated because “the LORD had made them joyful and had turned … Continue reading
deep water
Psalm 69 The psalmist is being overwhelmed, and asks God to save him for that feeling of being out in deep water, and near drowning. He anticipates that God will act, not just setting him on dry land, but restoring … Continue reading
authorization
Ezra 5 After a long delay, rebuilding begins and another challenge to it. The elders were authorized, so they had no problem with asking for the king’s decree to be made known. The prophets urged that the rebuilding proceed as … Continue reading
lying among the sheepfolds
Psalm 68 This psalm celebrates God’s protection and provision for his people, including the great battles he won for them. The point is that it was God’s greatness, not the overwhelming might of Israel’s armies that won the battles. Mention … Continue reading
