Ezra 7:10 For Ezra had devoted himself to the study and observance of the Law of the Lord, and to teaching its decrees and laws in Israel.

Ezra was a teacher’s teacher, someone who was totally focused on what he saw as his calling. That said, I think the most important line in this verse is where it says, “observance.” (Other translations render that, “to do it,” or “put it into practice.”) The point is, it wasn’t just an academic, theoretical study for Ezra, and that made all the difference. The theme of our readings is discipleship training, and follow-through is one of the most important parts of that. We can get a perfect score on a “paper test” about something, but if we don’t, or can’t, apply that knowledge, it essentially means nothing. This is why James 1:22 is so important: “Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.” It’s also the point of the A section, Application, of the SOAP system of devotional Bible reading (that I’ll be preaching on this morning). It’s also the resolution of the perennial conflict between “faith” and “works.” As has been said many times, real faith works! As Jesus said, “Why do you call me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ and do not do what I say?” (Luke 6:46) Ezra didn’t know Jesus, but he was determined to do everything he believed God had said to him. That made him a teacher worthy of the name.

As someone with Teacher gifting, this is of immense relevance to me. I tend to feel that just getting the truth out there should be sufficient, but I need to walk alongside people to show them how to put it into practice. The biggest problem in that is that I’m not perfect in my own application of the truth I know. Also, truth without love is meaningless, as Paul expounded on in 1 Corinthians 13. I don’t think I’ve taught much if any heresy, but I have certainly dumped truth on people without having enough love to soften the blow. Telling someone they’re immature – which I have done – seldom if ever really helps them. Doing such things demonstrates my own immaturity! Right now we’re trying to recover from just such a mistake of mine, and I won’t even venture a guess as to how many times this sort of thing has happened in the past. It’s very important that Jesus said, “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” (John 13:34) I’ve got to filter everything I say and do through the love of God in Christ Jesus. Only if I do that will I accurately present and teach His truth, for His glory.

Father, thank You for this reminder. Thank You that You can, do, and will use even my mistakes for good. May all of Your plans be fulfilled on Your schedule for Your glory. Thank You. Praise God!