January 31, 2010

Worship Before Work

God's priorities always seem to be at odds with those of His people. We are continually tempted to put spiritual priorities behind human wants and needs. Ezra challenged the people to restore their relationship with God first then undertake the work that needed to be done. What can we learn about the priority we should place on worship today? (Ezra 3:1-13)

You Can't Go Home Again

There is truth in the adage, "You can't go home again." At least, it won't ever be the same place you left. When the remnant of Judah's exiles returned from Babylon to their homeland they found that things were very different. During their time in exile, the neighboring peoples had moved onto their land and set up their own way of life--a way of life that did not include the One True God. Let's take a look at the challenges they faced from these other nations in this week's Illustrated Bible Life article, "You Can't Go Home Again."