When The Ordinary Became Extraordinary
December 21, 2024
Raising the heart
September 17, 2018
For Ezra had set his heart to study the law of the LORD and to practice it, and to teach His statutes and ordinances in Israel. - Ezra 7:10
“Put up your flag for Jesus!” That’s an appeal I like to extend sometimes at the conclusion of a sermon. Once I gave that invitation, and a Jewish man, one of our city’s top chefs, responded. A new member counselor asked him why he came forward. “All I know is I just wanted to put up my flag for Jesus,” the man responded.
Ultimately, he left the restaurant business and became a pastor in our church. When Ezra “set his heart” to study God’s word, the literal meaning is that he stood his heart in a perpendicular position. Ezra’s heart was the pole flying the banner signifying his intentions to become a diligent student, consistent practitioner and faithful teacher of God’s truths.
Maybe it’s hard to think of your heart as a flagpole, but the purposes of your life advertised to others rise upon the heart’s intents. Raise the flag for Christ in your heart, and everyone will know what you’re about!
TODAY’S FOCUS
What is the flag raised in your heart? Seek God for the courage to let your “banner wave” everywhere for Christ and His Kingdom.
