It can be hard to define what kind of strong leadership is required to provide organization to a group of people. I think it really has more to do with the people and the need when it comes to what kind of leader is needed. There are stern, charismatic, inspiring, quiet, and more types of leaders. They can all be good or bad depending on the situation and the integrity of that leader.
Ezra was an educationally inspired leader. He believed everyone had the right to know what God expected from them and he felt responsible to make sure they understood. That is why he was a good leader. He did not back down, he stood firm and did what was right even if it was hard and maybe scary at times. he made sure things were done in the proper order.
Ezra assembled the families in Jerusalem. He reached out to all 12 tribes requesting them to come to Jerusalem. He requested a corporate fast to humble their hearts and to be open for whatever God may tell them before they even made their journey. He knew that this was not convenient for them. It would require them to leave in the middle of whatever they were involved in at the time. It was a dangerous journey and there were more obstacles or excuses people could face.
The Jews asked God for protection on their journey. When you fast it changes things within your heart and mind, but it also provides a direct connection for God to listen to your request because it is not coming from a selfish place, but from a vulnerability within the soul.
Once every one was in Jerusalem, they rested for three day. No one can be truly open to change when tired. They will be distracted, falling asleep, or defensive. Plus, it showed that Ezra cared about the people. On the fourth day people accounted for all that they had. After that they gave sacrifices. We have to make sure our priorities are aligned with God and that is what Ezra was doing. He was showing the people how to follow God.
Ezra 8
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