“Whatever seems good to you and to your brothers to do with the rest of the silver and gold, you may do according to the will of your God.”Ezra 7:18

As the leader of the Persian Empire from 465–425 BC, Artaxerxes had enormous power and authority. Yet he could be challenged at any time. In fact, his own reign began after his father, Xerxes, was murdered by a rival. Could he ever really feel safe? Did he really know what the people around him might do? Some around the king had been self-centered or lusted after power. But a rare few must have merited his trust. Amazingly, Ezra was among this group, even though he came from a totally different background. We realize the degree of this trust when Artaxerxes sent Ezra to Judah with what amounted to absolute control. Ezra could draw whatever funds he needed from the royal treasury, and none of these resources could be taxed. Artaxerxes must have known that Ezra was a man of integrity, someone who was committed to serving God without compromise. This kind of trustworthiness was unique in Ezra’s time. And it still is unique today. The Bible puts the issue of trust in context by asking a profound question: “Many a man proclaims his own loyalty, but who can find a trustworthy man?” (Proverbs 20:6) In our world today, many seem to think first about themselves. They manipulate and bend the truth if necessary to achieve their objectives. They make promises, but don’t keep them. In your life, remember that we as Believers are called to keep our promises, both with God and with others (Matthew 5:37). We must be honest and reject the use of manipulation (2 Corinthians 4:2). Brothers & Sisters seek to be trustworthy in your life, a person others can trust. Be a person of integrity, seeking first the Kingdom of God. Instead of being self-centered, always be generous and willing to serve. Be guided and empowered by the Spirit. Like Ezra, be a person others know they can trust.