Some of the people of Israel, as well as some of the priests, Levites, singers, gatekeepers, and Temple servants, traveled up to Jerusalem with him in the seventh year of King Artaxerxes' reign. Ezra arrived in Jerusalem in August of that year. (Ezra 7:7-8 NLT)
There really is strength in numbers. In the days of Ezra, the people who returned to Jerusalem were the remnant (remaining people) of Israel. They were returning, “hat in hand” so to speak, with humility before the LORD. After years of defiance, they were ready to return, ask for forgiveness, and worship. This made their sacrifices acceptable to God in their day.
As you come to him, a living stone rejected by men but in the sight of God chosen and precious, you yourselves like living stones are being built up as a spiritual house, to be a holy priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. (1 Peter 2:4-5 ESV)
When we come to God in humility and receive forgiveness through Jesus, we are ready to worship as well. Worship takes place when we allow God to build us up together as a spiritual house and a holy priesthood. Our worship is strengthened and God’s Glory is magnified with every person we are connected to in worship.
Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another--and all the more as you see the Day approaching. (Hebrews 10:23-25 NIV84)
How about you? Do you worship with others?
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