Determination

Now Ezra had determined in his heart to study the law of the Lord, obey it, and teach its statutes and ordinances in Israel.

Ezra 7:10 CSB

Ever tried to do something really difficult? Maybe take a few steps to get it done. Survey the necessary course of action, but never quite take it?

Let’s say I want to clean out a closet. I open the door. Look at the clutter. Go get a drink of water. Come back, decide where to start. Take the empty hangers to the laundry room. Realize I have a text message. Answer it. Scroll through Facebook. It seems like distractions may have won out over my determination.

Ezra came up with a formula for sticking with it no matter what. First, He “determined in his heart.” He made a solid commitment. Ezra decided to study God’s Word and he followed through. He took his decision seriously enough to actually study and drown out any distractions. Because of that, Ezra could take the next step. Upon studying the Word, he also chose to obey it. Since he made that decision, we find out later on in the book of Ezra, the Israelites listened and agreed. God used Ezra’s determination and follow though for his glory.

I cannot help but wonder what God might accomplish if I “determine in my heart” to do what he has for me to do. What if I made a commitment to share his love with others? Witness to my neighbor? Show kindness to the random people God brings in my path? What could God do? I imagine he would work now just like he did in Biblical times.

Father, help me determine in my heart to do the work you have assigned to me. Give me your strength to follow though. Drown out any distractions the world tries to throw at me. May everything I do in your name bring glory to you. 

Susan Partida