READ Ezra 3
The priests restore the altar and worship of the Lord.

INSIGHT
The basis of most discontent is comparison. We could be happy with our cars if the
neighbors didn´t have better ones. We would be satisfied with our houses if they were
as nice as everyone else´s. Yet, were we to have our present possessions in many
other countries, we would be considered rich. Once our basic needs are met, the issue
is not “how are we,” but rather, “how are we compared to how everyone else is.” When
the foundation of the new temple is laid, the new generation rejoices at the work of God;
but the older generation laments that the new temple is not as impressive as the old
one. We should be content with what God has chosen to give us and not make
comparisons. A person is rich who rejoices in his or her portion.

PRAYER
Offer your praise to the Lord for what He has given you, and rejoice in your portion:
My mouth will tell about your righteousness
And your salvation all day long,
Though I cannot sum them up.  
I come because of the mighty acts of the Lord God;
I will proclaim your righteousness, yours alone.  
God, you have taught me from my youth,
And I still proclaim your wondrous works
(Psalm 71:15-17).

Pause for praise and thanksgiving. As you seek to keep your life free from sin, pray this prayer:
God, create a clean heart for me
And renew a steadfast spirit within me.
Restore the joy of your salvation to me,
And sustain me by giving me a willing spirit
(Psalm 51:10, 12).

Confess any sins that the Holy Spirit brings to your mind. Now pray this affirmation to the Lord:
Jesus said to her,
I am the resurrection and the life.
The one who believes in me,    
Even if he dies, will live (John 11:25).

As you make your requests known to the Lord, pray for:
*That others might see Christ in you
*That the Lord of the harvest would send forth laborers into His harvest
*Your activities for the day

Finally, offer this closing prayer to the Lord:
May the words of my mouth
And the meditation of my heart
Be acceptable to you,  
Lord, my rock and my Redeemer
(Psalm 19:14).