via TJC
“Even though the people were afraid of the local residents, they rebuilt the altar at its old site. Then they began to sacrifice burnt offerings on the altar to the Lord each morning and evening.”
—Ezra 3:3 NLT
I really want to build stronger relationships with my neighbors. Not just as a nice guy, or someone who will loan a tool or help with a project… I want to stand out as a Kingdom Man. My desire is strong, but my execution? Not so much.
What first stood out to me in this passage from Ezra is that in the face of fear of their neighbors, the Jewish exiles (recently returned home from Babylon) faced their fears and worshiped God boldly. They were willing to look out-of-place and simply do what God wanted.
Second, I noticed they rebuilt their altar on an old foundation. They returned to their roots. Their ancestors had known what was right but had turned away from it and, as a result, been exiled. Now the next generation was back and looking to do things right again.
If I’m honest, I find myself doing the opposite all too often. I'm fearful my neighbors will think I am coming on too strong if I’m bold in my faith. I know what I should be doing (my roots). In fact, boldness has been modeled for me pretty well, especially by some of the other men who write these Daily Battle Orders. Maybe you feel the same way sometimes. We can do better.
Daily Battle Order:
Ask yourself these questions today:
Do I want to be bold in my faith with my neighbors?
What fears may be holding me back from being bold?
Are there foundations (historical or relational) I can build on to become a bold Kingdom man?
Choose one thing you will do today to be bold in your faith with one neighbor. If you don't come up with something quickly I suggest you copy & paste this Daily Battle Order (or another one that stood out to you) and send it to a neighbor. Ask them for their opinion and see where it goes. (Let us know too if you're willing.)
Comments