Ezra 4:5

Through the centuries, the mere thought of Jerusalem has stirred the deepest feelings in both Jews and Christians. Jerusalem - Jerusalem, the city of the living God! Jesus wept over Jerusalem wherein the temple of the Lord stood. The prophet Isaiah spoke of this city and place in Isaiah 2:2-3. In the history and prophecies of Israel, there are references to four temples we will study in this plan.

During this difficult season of social distancing, economic upheaval, and panic about the COVID-19 pandemic, Joni shares her biblical perspective on suffering. Instead of being fearful as we huddle at home, Scripture shows us that the only place to find true comfort is in the arms of our good and wise God, who remains our sovereign Savior. This reading plan will encourage you to focus on Jesus in troubled times.

Picking up where 2 Chronicles ends, Ezra describes the return of exiles to Jerusalem and the eventual rebuilding of the temple. Using the influence of pagan kings and unbelieving rulers, God was faithful to bring his people back to the land and reestablish worship at the temple.

This plan is a guide to discover God’s story as it unfolds in the Bible - from Genesis through Revelation. Over 12 days, each devotional will introduce one part of that story. Each will list the Scripture passages covering that period, and dates, highlight its main points and briefly summarize the part it plays within the context of God’s redemptive plan. The Bible reading each day should take about 30 minutes.