December 4

Ezra 7–10 tells the story of a man whose life was shaped by devotion to God’s Word. Ezra had set his heart to study the Law of the Lord, to live it, and to teach it. When he returned to Jerusalem, he discovered that many of God’s people had compromised their faith by forming relationships that pulled them away from devotion to the Lord. Ezra’s response was not anger but humility and repentance. He tore his clothes, fell on his knees, and prayed, confessing the sins of the people as if they were his own. His deep grief over sin sparked a movement of renewed commitment—a community choosing to turn back to God with seriousness and sincerity.

Psalm 97 declares that the Lord reigns. His righteousness and justice form the foundation of His throne. When God’s people drift from Him, it is not because He has changed—His holiness remains steady, His truth unshaken. Light shines on the righteous and joy on the upright in heart. Returning to Him always leads to joy, clarity, and life.

In Revelation 4, the apostle John is taken into the throne room of heaven. There he sees the Lord seated on the throne, surrounded by worship. Lightning, thunder, and radiant colors reflect His majesty. Creatures and elders fall before Him crying, Holy, holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty. This vision reminds us why holiness matters—because the God we serve is infinitely holy and worthy of pure devotion. The call to repentance in Ezra’s day and the call to worship in Revelation both lead us to the same place: a life centered on the glory and holiness of God.

Together, these passages invite us to a deeper, more intentional devotion. They remind us that repentance is not about shame but about returning to joy. And worship is not merely a song we sing but a life set apart for the One seated on the eternal throne.

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