Ezra continues the history of Israel, picking up after seventy years in Babylonian captivity. We see them take their first steps toward reclaiming their nation and their place as God's chosen people. As you can imagine, things are a little shaky. This generation doesn't know much more about living as God's people than that first generation of Israelites who left Egypt. In fact, there are a lot of similarities between the two. Just like in Exodus, we find:- The institution of God's law
- The establishment of a worship center
- Hostility from enemy nations
And like Exodus there are occasional lengthy passages of genealogies or other details.
Some things to watch for as you read:
Watch how God sovereignly directs all the events. The phrase "the hand of the Lord" is used a few times. We'll see it again in Nehemiah.
Notice the problems caused by compromise.
List Ezra's character traits. These are summarized in 7:10.
How are the principles in Ezra relevant to us?
For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need. 
How long has it been since you've read the story of Samson? You remember, long hair – super strong. Haircut- instant wimp. That Samson. With my Sunday school boys, it's a fresh challenge each week to grab their attention and give them a new angle on stories they've heard since preschool. Samson got their attention. He got mine, too. You can read his story in 
Seeing it's Valentine's Day, how about a study tip about love? (No, I'm not ready to do Song of Solomon just yet.) 
In the multitude of my anxieties within me, Your comforts delight my soul.