Instead of focusing on one particular verse from Ezra, let us look at several important truths from the book as a whole. From the very beginning of the book, we see the truth that God is always in control. Here in Ezra the temple in Jerusalem had been destroyed and the vessels from the temple had been taken by Nebuchadnezzar. The circumstances, at first glance, might have made some wonder if God truly was in control of this situation.
But the very first verse says that "the LORD stirred up the spirit of Cyrus king of Persia" to rebuild the temple in Jerusalem. In the following verses, King Cyrus acknowledges the "LORD God of heaven," both as the One who had given him the kingdoms of the earth in the first place and the One who had told him to have the temple built. Even when life seems to say that God is no longer ruling and has somehow lost control, know that our God is still governing and ruling in the affairs of men.
In chapter 2, teamwork is the theme. There is no way that Ezra could have built the temple by himself! He needed everyone and anyone who was willing to help. You will notice two things in verses 68-69: First, the people offered what they had freely. They were not giving grudgingly out of duty; they were giving what they had because they wanted to give.
Secondly, they gave "after their ability." Each person gave what he could of his own skills and of his own possessions. Not everyone could do or give the same thing-that was not God's way. But when each gave "after their ability," great things were done. In any Christian ministry, the Lord desires to use His people as they work together as a team.
In chapter 3, perspective is the theme (vs. 10-13). When the foundations to the temple were laid, there was a mixture of weeping and rejoicing. The weeping was done by some of the older men who were looking to past memories of the old temple; the shouts of joy and praise to the Lord came from those who were grateful for the great things God was doing right now in their midst. Their vision was toward the future and the new work that could be done for the Lord.
Great things done for the Lord in the past should be remembered but not dwelt upon; it is important that those past victories be used to inspire new works for God. Right perspective is so important-keep your focus on what God is doing and will do in the future while keeping in mind what He has done in the past.
In chapter 4, we are reminded that doing exactly what God wants you to do oftentimes brings opposition. Not everyone will pat you on the back for what you are doing; in fact, sometimes good people will be critical of the work being done. Do not be discouraged! This does not mean that you should quit. If God is ordering your steps, keep doing what you ought.
Finally, chapter 5 brings us back full circle to the truth that God is still in control. Many years after the vessels were taken from the temple by Nebuchadnezzar, they were returned to the new temple by Cyrus, the king of Persia (v.14). God allows "bad" things to happen for a reason, just as he ordains "good" things to happen in His divine plan. Never doubt that God always has and always will rule and govern in the affairs of men. How reassuring to know that He is in control!
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