Ezra 8:23

So we fasted and petitioned our God about this, and He granted our request.

Study Bible

So we fasted
The act of fasting in the Hebrew context, as seen in the word "צום" (tsom), is a profound expression of humility and dependence on God. Fasting is a spiritual discipline that signifies a deep yearning for divine intervention and guidance. Historically, fasting was often accompanied by prayer, sackcloth, and ashes, symbolizing repentance and a sincere heart seeking God's favor. In the context of Ezra, the Israelites were preparing for a perilous journey back to Jerusalem, and fasting was a way to seek God's protection and blessing.

and petitioned
The Hebrew word "בקש" (baqash) conveys a sense of earnest seeking or requesting. Petitioning God is an act of faith, acknowledging His sovereignty and power to intervene in human affairs. In the biblical narrative, petitioning is not merely asking for favors but is rooted in a relationship with God, where His will and purposes are sought above all. Ezra and the people were not just asking for safety; they were aligning themselves with God's covenant promises and His overarching plan for His people.

our God
The phrase "our God" emphasizes a personal and covenantal relationship with the Almighty. In the Hebrew tradition, God is not a distant deity but a personal God who has chosen Israel as His people. This relationship is based on the covenants made with the patriarchs and is characterized by faithfulness, love, and obedience. For Ezra and the returning exiles, invoking "our God" was a reminder of their identity as God's chosen people and His faithfulness to His promises.

about this
The specificity of "this" indicates a particular concern or need. In the context of Ezra 8, "this" refers to the journey back to Jerusalem and the dangers associated with it. It highlights the importance of bringing specific requests before God, trusting that He is concerned with the details of our lives. This specificity in prayer reflects a deep trust in God's ability to address particular needs and situations.

and He granted
The phrase "He granted" reflects God's responsiveness to the prayers of His people. The Hebrew root "ענה" (anah) suggests an answer or response, indicating that God is not passive but actively involved in the lives of His people. This assurance of answered prayer is a testament to God's faithfulness and His willingness to act on behalf of those who seek Him earnestly.

our request
The word "request" in Hebrew, "שאלה" (sha'alah), implies a petition or plea. It underscores the idea that God listens to the cries of His people and responds according to His will and purpose. The fulfillment of their request was not just a matter of divine intervention but also a confirmation of God's covenantal promises and His ongoing relationship with Israel. For believers, this serves as an encouragement to bring all concerns before God, trusting in His wisdom and timing.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Ezra
A scribe and priest who led a group of exiles from Babylon to Jerusalem. He was instrumental in the spiritual and religious reform of the Jewish people.

2. The Exiles
A group of Israelites returning from Babylonian captivity to Jerusalem, seeking to restore their homeland and religious practices.

3. Fasting and Petitioning
The act of humbling oneself before God through fasting and prayer, seeking divine intervention and guidance.

4. God
The central figure in the account, who responds to the prayers and fasting of His people.

5. The Journey to Jerusalem
A significant event where Ezra and the exiles sought God's protection and guidance for their journey back to their homeland.

Teaching Points

The Power of Fasting and Prayer
Fasting and prayer are powerful spiritual disciplines that demonstrate humility and dependence on God. They are means through which believers can seek God's guidance and intervention in their lives.

God's Faithfulness in Answering Prayers
God is attentive to the prayers of His people. When we approach Him with sincere hearts, He is faithful to respond according to His will.

The Importance of Community in Seeking God
Ezra and the exiles sought God together, highlighting the strength and encouragement found in communal prayer and fasting.

Trusting God in Uncertain Journeys
Just as Ezra and the exiles trusted God for their journey, believers today are called to trust God in their life's journey, relying on His protection and guidance.

Preparation for Spiritual Endeavors
Before undertaking significant spiritual tasks, it is crucial to seek God's direction and blessing, as demonstrated by Ezra's preparation for the journey to Jerusalem.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the practice of fasting and prayer in Ezra 8:23 compare to other instances in the Bible where these disciplines are used?

2. In what ways can we incorporate fasting and prayer into our own lives to seek God's guidance and intervention?

3. How does the communal aspect of fasting and prayer in Ezra's time apply to the church today?

4. What are some modern-day "journeys" or challenges where we need to trust God as Ezra did?

5. How can we be assured of God's faithfulness in answering our prayers, and what role does faith play in this assurance?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Nehemiah 1:4
Nehemiah also fasted and prayed when he heard about the distress of Jerusalem, showing a similar reliance on God for guidance and intervention.

Matthew 6:16-18
Jesus teaches about fasting, emphasizing sincerity and the importance of seeking God's presence rather than human approval.

Philippians 4:6-7
Paul encourages believers to present their requests to God through prayer and supplication, promising peace in return.