25/06/2011 - We have to prepare our hearts

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“For Ezra had prepared his heart to seek the Law of the LORD, and to do it, and to teach statutes and ordinances in Israel.” (Ezra 7:10)
The Word of the Lord states that there is a time for everything in this life (Ecclesiastes 3:1) and, of course, there is a time for preparation. During the years we spend at school we are being trained to become successful in all fields. Yet, there are those who have no appreciation for what is taught in the classroom. When these people come across a problem or when they have to compete against someone for a position they eventually realize how stupid they had been for not paying heed to what was being taught to them. The same happens in the church. Those who, for instance, attend services only to satisfy somebody else’s request or for any other reason except for seeking the presence of the Lord, when they go through trials they regret that they did not learn how to become winners with the Word of God.
Rehoboam, one of the sons of Solomon (the wisest man that has ever been born in this world) and a grandson of King David’s, was not intelligent enough to be trained to serve the Lord. Yet, when he realized he was being pushed by society he was not flexible to listen and to respond wisely. So, because he was not trained to serve the Most High he could not seek the right guidance from the Lord. Consequently his kingdom was divided though David managed to expand the kingdom of Israel and Solomon was able to keep it powerful.
The apostle Paul, when writing to Timothy, said that we have to present ourselves to the Most High as approved workers (II Timothy 2: 15), but since only a few people do so, the Lord is kept from using many of His children. Actually, He needs to use them in a myriad of fields – in the business world, in Science, in the church ministries, etc… – Yet, how will He do that with those who have never asked Him to train them to become His workers? Have you ever thought of being prepared?
Ezra was a scribe and a priest who prepared himself to have access to the Law of God and therefore he could be used by Him. Today, we have to do the same in order to seek the Word of the Lord. Since the day Jesus breathed His Spirit upon the disciples He said that they should receive the Holy Spirit, then their understanding was opened up so they would fully understand the Scriptures (John 20:22), anyone can get to know our Savior the way He really is – and that will make the whole difference in our lives!
We need to be prepared to fulfil what the Lord declares in the Scriptures. His will must be done with joy and those who do so will have a life full of accomplishments such as never ever imagined by anyone before. Indeed, the Most High will reward the good and faithful servant (Matthew 25:21). Yet, my brother, being fully trained to follow the divine ordinances is not enough; we must also be prepared to teach them – either with our words or through works. The world is going through suffering because we lack people who are capable of showing what the Word of God is all about. Therefore, use the talent you received and gain people to Jesus!
In Christ, with love,
R. R. Soares