Ezra Expressed Sorrow in His Prayer

“In times of deep sorrow it is not the people who tell you why you are suffering who are of any use; the people who help you are those who give expression to your state of mind, often they do not speak at all...” (Oswald Chambers). … More

Sorrow

The rest of the chapter contains Ezra’s prayer. It is in its entirety one of confession of sin, with no petition or request of any kind. Although Ezra was not personally guilty of these sins, he identifies himself with his people in his prayer. He acknowledged that all the horrible afflictions which had come upon them as a nation was far less than they deserved (v. 13).

Here is how Ezra prayed for his nation:

  1. He showed sorrow. (v. 3) - He tore his robe. Tearing of the garment speaks of mourning. We need to be very sorrowful for our sins as this is an important part of intercession.
  2. He prayed for hours. (v. 4) - Ezra did not pray a 5 minute prayer. He labored for hours in God’s presence.
  3. He showed humility (v. 5) - He fell on his knees and spread out his hands to the Lord. Intercessors often keep a posture of humility when they come to God’s presence.
  4. He confessed his nations sin. (v. 6) - He said “we have sinned.” Intercessors should identify with the sins of the nation and confess them.
  5. He thanked God for His grace. (vv. 8-9) - He thanked God that the Remnant was allowed to escape, there was repair of God’s house and for the rebuilding of its ruins.

It was because of their sin that they had been sent out captive to Babylon (Modern Iraq) (v. 7), but God had been gracious to return them to their land (vv. 8-10). God had judged His people on earth because of sin so they would turn to Him. (II Chron. 6:24-26).

Application

How long has it been since I have wept over the souls of men? Perhaps one of the reasons I don’t see more answers to my prayers is because I don’t get serious enough about the things I am praying for

Ezra 9:6-15 (English Standard Version)


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