A Little Space
Today’s Verse:
And now for a little space grace hath been shewed from the LORD our God, to leave us a remnant to escape, and to give us a nail in his holy place, that our God may lighten our eyes, and give us a little reviving in our bondage. ~Ezra 9:8
The word “little” implies something very small and, possibly, insignificant. When the word is used, we are indicating not very much in quantity. However, we know that little is much when God is in it. Jesus blessed a few small fishes and barley loaves to feed a large multitude. Just a little fed a lot! A widow gave two small mites: two very insignificant coins that monetarily indicated she was poor. Yet, her little offering was commended because she gave all she had. God said that we should not despise the day of small things. This morning, let us see the significance of a little space.
We see the rebellion.
After the temple had been built, the people compromised and lived in disobedience to God’s commands. The princes and rulers indulged the people to compromise in their separation. There was intermingling of the saved with the unsaved. They willingly gave their children to be married with the pagans of the land. The priests came to Ezra and confessed that they were in a big mess. Rebellion against God’s Word always leads to terrible consequences.
We see repentance.
“And said, O my God, I am ashamed and blush to lift up my face to thee, my God: for our iniquities are increased over our head, and our trespass is grown up unto the heavens.” Ezra was heartbroken and embarrassed over the sins of the people. The starting point in restoration of fellowship with God is the repentance of the spiritual leaders. No man who is a spiritual leader is qualified to lead if he does not have a contrite spirit about his sin and the sin of the people.
We see the respite.
Ezra acknowledged that God had given them a little space of grace. A little space means just a small amount of opportunity. Ezra acknowledged that God, in His mercy, gave the people of Judah a little space of His grace. Grace is God’s undeserved love and mercy towards us. Just a little grace is enough to hold back the wrath of God. Just a little space of grace affords us the time to make things right through the confession of sin and repentance. Thank God for a little space He gives us over and over in spite of our unworthiness.
We see the revival.
Ezra was thankful that God brought them back to the land, made them as a nail in His place, and gave them a little reviving. A little space of grace gave them a little reviving. A little reviving is enough to light many fires. A little reviving is enough to turn back to God. A little reviving is enough to move us back to a life that is pleasing to God. A little reviving can turn many hearts back to God and can see many unsaved family members get saved.
Let us seize the opportunity that God gives us for a little reviving. We are in a little space where grace is still on us. Don’t waste the opportunity, and let us do all we can to go forward for God’s glory.
Have a revived God Morning!
Bible Reading: John 5-6