Monday · 2026-07-27

Come Follow Me Daily Devotional

Ezra 1

1. Scripture Reference and Link:
   Ezra 1:1-11
   https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/ot/ezra/1?lang=eng

2. Historical and Narrative Context:
   After seventy years of captivity in Babylon, the Lord stirred the spirit of Cyrus, the King of Persia, who had conquered Babylon. Cyrus, though not a covenant Israelite, issued a proclamation allowing the Jews to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the temple. This fulfilled prophecies made by Isaiah and Jeremiah concerning the return of the exiles and the rebuilding of the temple. Furthermore, King Cyrus even returned the sacred vessels that Nebuchadneadnezzar had taken from the original temple, and he encouraged others to assist the returning Jews with resources for their journey and the rebuilding effort.

3. Reflective Questions:

   • How can recognizing the Lord's hand in seemingly unexpected places, even through individuals outside of our immediate faith, strengthen our trust in His overarching plan?
   • What might the Lord be stirring in your spirit, or in the spirits of those around you, to contribute to His work of building up the kingdom today?

4. Closing Tying Insight:
   The account of Ezra 1 beautifully illustrates the Lord's power to inspire individuals—both inside and outside the covenant—to accomplish His divine purposes. Just as Cyrus was moved to enable the rebuilding of the temple and the Israelites were stirred to return, we are likewise called to participate in the ongoing work of gathering Israel and building His kingdom. Responding with faith and obedience to these spiritual promptings, no matter how small, allows us to join in God's great work.