Where do you find strength and confidence? When was the last time that you stepped out to complete a task with people actively working to stop you? Did you have hope to complete the task? In Ezra 5 and 6 the people of Israel who have returned from exile are facing the same moment of crisis. Will they continue to follow God and rebuild the temple despite the enemies and rulers who had forbidden the work? Where did the Israelites find their hope and strength? What reassurance would you want before you would step out in faith to follow God? When we are surround by people of the world that are claiming that are work we intend is useless and fruitless, what will we do?
What helped the people in Jerusalem arise and continue the work on the temple? The prophets Haggai and Zechariah prophesied to the people. When the people were reminded that it was God who was over them and not the rulers of Persia they continued the work on the temple. When we undertake any endeavor relying on our own strength we are easily overwhelmed and waylaid but when we are following in the steps of God as He works we will have success. As the temple work continued it was evident that God was blessing the people working in Jerusalem because the hearts of the men against Israel were not as resolute and king Darius honored the decree given by king Cyrus. God was using the men in authority in Persia to bring about his purpose and desires for Israel. God will always be faithful and our hope today will always be found in Jesus Christ.
When the temple was completed what emotions filled the hearts of the people of Israel? Was there an overwhelming sense of thankfulness, joy, and hope as the people again were walking with God after the many years of their fathers disobedience? Will the completion of the temple be a catalyst for bringing the Israelites back home? How quickly did news spread about the rebuilt temple? The next time you face opposing odds remember the story found in Ezra 6 and 7. The task that is set before you may seem like foolishness through the worlds eyes but if God has called you to the work at hand he will bring it to fruition. Make a stand for your faith in the midst of opposition and watch expectantly for God to work.
