Ezra 8

REFLECTIONS UPON CHAP. VIII.—How shameful it is to find such numbers of Jews still in Assyria, after they had had near eighty years’ liberty of returning to Judea, where their brethren were, and their God, before them. And especially that the revenues for God’s temple, even from heathens’ hands, should be in more forwardness than Levitical ministers to bear or use them! But they who are backward to their duty must be stirred up. Every vacancy in the church ought to be speedily supplied with pastors according to God’s heart. With the utmost care we ought to avoid every thing that looks like distrusting of our God, or dependance on an arm of flesh. We had better expose ourselves to difficulties than dishonour God, or give occasion of stumbling even to heathens. In perplexing circumstances let us apply to solemn fasting and fervent prayer. They, who in a humble and dependant manner seek him, will find him a very present help in trouble. Let us therefore by faith cast all the care of our persons, families, and estates, upon him. Only holy persons are duly qualified to take charge of holy things, and especially of precious souls. And the greatest accuracy and fidelity are necessary in every trust, as we must give account to God. But O how infinite is his goodness in bringing his chosen people safe through dangers, rendering their trustees honest and faithful, their companions devout, and their enemies friendly! And soon shall his gracious designs be complete, in bringing all the ransomed millions to the Canaan, the Jerusalem above, where they shall for ever behold, live on, and rejoice with, Jesus their all-comprehending sacrifice; and where they shall find none but furtherers of their work. 5 Y