Author Archives: Anita Stuart-Steva

Nehemiah 1 and 2 open with Nehemiah learning that Jerusalem is in a state of disrepair. He prays that God will forgive his family and people and will help him restore the sacred city. Nehemiah asks King Artaxerxes’ permission to … Continue reading →

In Ezra 9 and 10 Ezra hears that many of the people of Israel have married foreigners, against the law of God. He prays fervently, admitting their guilt and his embarrassment and shame. He acknowledges God’s faithfulness despite their unfaithfulness … Continue reading →

Ezra 7 and 8 opens with Ezra from the line of Aaron coming to Jerusalem. He receives permission from King Artaxerxes to study the law of God there and also to bring offerings for the building of the temple. Ezra … Continue reading →

In Ezra 5 and 6, when Darius becomes king of Persia, the prophets Haggai and Zechariah encourage the people to work on the temple. Once again, the adversaries of Judah try to stop the process. They are frightened by the … Continue reading →

In Ezra 3 and 4 the people build the altar of God and set it up on its foundation. They keep the festival of booths even though the foundation for the temple had not been laid. The people give freewill … Continue reading →

Ezra 1 and 2 begin with the actions of Cyrus the king of Persia. Although Cyrus is a Gentile he knows that he has been blessed by the Lord. He is to rebuild the temple in Jerusalem. He returns the … Continue reading →

In 2 Chronicles 35 King Josiah celebrates the Passover with all of the people. King Neco of Egypt comes against Judah. Josiah goes out to fight him. Neco tells him that he is coming at God’s command. God is speaking … Continue reading →

We begin our second half year of the Year of the Bible today. Congratulations for making it this far! Keep going. The summer’s reading will go through quite a few books quickly. In 2 Chronicles 33 Manasseh succeeds his father … Continue reading →

In 2 Chronicles 31and 32 the people are so inspired by the worship of God that they go back home and tear down all of the places of idols worship in Judah, Benjamin, Ephraim and Manasseh. Hezekiah makes a tithe … Continue reading →

In 2 Chronicles 29 and 30 Hezekiah succeeds Ahaz after his death. Hezekiah’s mother is the daughter of Zechariah and raises him to do what is right in the sight of the Lord. He reopens the house of the Lord … Continue reading →