Ezra describes for us the preparations he made for the journey including the listing of the families who chose to accompany him. Although Ezra found he had to recruit Levites who would be of the utmost importance in assisting in worship at the Temple, the majority of those who decided to accompany him were from the royal and priestly families who had relatives in Judah who had returned many years earlier. Apparently he and those who chose to go with him knew the sorry state of affairs among the Jews in Jerusalem. They had abandoned reconstruction of Jerusalem and were lacking in zeal and fervor when it came to worshipping the Lord and walking according to His Law.
The group led by Ezra was aware of the dangers they faced in their trip. They resorted to fasting and prayer in order to obtain the Lord’s protection. They wanted to affirm their faith in Him rather than rely on the King for help. Ezra also took precautions to make sure the safety of expensive temple items. Every item was meticulously recorded in detailed records so as ensure the honesty of those to whom it was entrusted and to protect them from scandal should there be any question about the things that were brought.
Ezra provides us with an example of godly wisdom that should be used in protecting the finances of any local church or congregation. Too often we have heard news of people entrusted with church funds stealing and embezzling them. A system of checks and balances and clear record keeping are fundamental to church financial health. Yet what is more important is the selection of financial officers who are above reproach.
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