Two leaders, one burning mission: restoration.

When the people of Israel returned to Jerusalem after their exile in Babylon, they found the city laid waste, the temple destroyed, and their way of life obliterated. Out of the ashes of this devastation, two leaders emerged to restore the foundations of their worship and their city.

Ezra, the first to return, set out to restore true worship in Jerusalem by reminding the people of God's teaching, what it meant for them, and how it should shape their lives. Nehemiah, the next to arrive, exchanged his royal cupbearer's robes for coveralls and got to work rebuilding the wall. The project took twelve years and was an uphill battle all the way. The efforts of these men reveal just how much God can accomplish in our lives when we follow where he leads.

As you read, study, journal, and discuss the books of Ezra and Nehemiah, watch for these key themes that Max will unpack throughout the book:

• When the Hebrews were allowed to return home their spiritual restoration was as important as their national restoration.
• Restoring the temple was a significant step in the spiritual restoration of the people.
• The idolatry of the Hebrews was rooted in foreign wives who continued to worship their false gods. This is why the men were asked to divorce their foreign wives.

The Life Lessons with Max Lucado series brings the Bible to life in twelve lessons filled with intriguing questions, inspirational stories, and poignant reflections to take you deeper into God's Word. Each lesson includes:

• An opening reflection on the Bible book you're studying.
• Background information to deepen your understanding of the cultural and historical setting.
• An excerpt of the text (from the NIV and the NKJV).
• Exploration questions with plenty of room to write your own thoughts and notes.
• Inspirational thoughts from Max as well as a closing takeaway for further reflection.

The Life Lessons series is ideal for use in both a small-group setting or for individual study.