Scripture
Ezra 7:9–10
He had begun his journey from Babylon on the first day of the first month, and he arrived in Jerusalem on the first day of the fifth month, for the gracious hand of his God was on him. 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.
He had begun his journey from Babylon on the first day of the first month, and he arrived in Jerusalem on the first day of the fifth month, for the gracious hand of his God was on him. 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.
Main Idea
What we set our eyes on will determine what we pursue. If we are obsessed and constantly focused on ourselves, we will inevitably fall into worry and dissatisfaction with what we lack. But when we fix our eyes on God and become obsessed with Him and His presence, that is the surest way to walk in and experience His joy!
1. Learn It
Psalm 19:7–9 The law of the Lord is perfect, refreshing the soul. The statutes of the Lord are trustworthy, making wise the simple. The precepts of the Lord are right, giving joy to the heart. The commands of the Lord are radiant, giving light to the eyes.
Why is the Word of God transformative when it is at the core of our lives rather than just an addition to them?
2. Live It
Many are satisfied with simply knowing the Bible, but God is pleased when we both know and live out His Word.
Why do we often stop at merely knowing the Word of God, thinking that is enough? How do we move from knowing to doing the Word of God?
3. Teach It
The mouth speaks what the heart is full of.
How is the joy of the Lord directly connected to our ability and passion to teach the Word of God?
Call To Action
Reflect:
What occupies your mind daily? Are you “obsessed” with God and His Word, or with the worries of life?
Respond:
What practical steps can we take to keep our hearts and minds obsessed with the things of God?
Remember:
Learning the Word of God empowers us to live it—and then to live out the Great Commission by teaching those God places in our lives.
Care Form
If someone in your group needs care,
We want to be there for them. The James River Care team is designed to walk alongside people in every season – to celebrate life’s best moment and offer support through the challenging ones. We want to be there for the following life events:
- Marriage
- Births
- Hospitalization and deaths
- Questions or concerns
Please submit a request at: jamesriver.church/care-form
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