Day 251, September 8 Chronological Bible Study Timeline. Map. Go to today’s Bible reading (use your browser arrow to return): Ezra 3:1-13; Psalms 92, 126
Courageous Faith
What would you do if your church were destroyed and burned because people in your neighborhood did not like you? Would you go back? You might say, “That all depends on the circumstances. Perhaps there is a better place for our church where we will not be harassed.”
That is true enough, but what would you do if you were convinced God wanted you to go back there and rebuild?
A Difficult Situation
In today’s Bible reading, many of the Jewish people return to their land and to their beloved city. Emotionally and physically, this is a challenging thing to do. Seventy-years earlier, Babylon destroyed Jerusalem and exiled her people. The exiles settled down and got used to the culture of Babylon. Even if they were freed, there was not much to return to but rubble and hostile neighbors. Still, it was their homeland.
God makes a way
During the latter part of their exile, there were many Jews who repented and wanted to obey the LORD. In response, God moved the heart of King Cyrus of Persia to issue a decree, allowing all who desired to return to their homeland to rebuild their temple and their city. 49,000 responded.
In 538 B.C., not only did Cyrus allow the people to go home, but he also issued an order to supply the gold, silver, goods, and the animals used for sacrifice. Even the articles of the temple were returned, which Nebuchadnezzar had placed in the temple of his god. The king’s purpose was to gain the favor of the gods of the land by being gracious (Ezra 1:3; 7:23), but the LORD moves the hearts of the kings of the earth (Proverbs 21:1).
When you are with God, he is with you.
“Then the family heads of Judah and Benjamin, and the priests and Levites-- everyone whose heart God had moved-- prepared to go up and build the house of the LORD in Jerusalem” (Ezra 1:5, NIV).
Courage Amidst Opposition
After they were settled in their towns, the Israelites gathered in unity to build an altar to the LORD. They did this despite their fear of the nations around them. Courage is not a lack of fear; it is the will to do what is right despite it.
Israel’s neighbors are not happy that King Cyrus is helping the Jews, and they have to contribute to their cause. God has a sense of humor—those nations who were their enemies and looted their cities now have to help them get a start in rebuilding. They hate the Jews, but what can they do? They, too, are vassal nations under the powerful rule of Persia.
After building the altar to offer sacrifices to the LORD, the Jews order their building supplies from Sidon and Tyre and hire masons and carpenters to rebuild the temple. In the second month of the second year after they arrive in Jerusalem, the foundations are laid, and there is much rejoicing. The elders weep, however, when they remember the first temple.
Worship
The priests and appointed Levites play trumpets, clash symbols, and lead the congregation in songs of praise to God. Worship is fitting. God forgave them of their sins and then returned them to their homeland. He also provided for them and protected them from their hostile neighbors. He even made it possible to construct an altar and lay the foundations of the temple. The LORD supplied exceeding abundantly more than they could ever ask or think (Ephesians 3:20). Has he done that with you? Why not give him praise?
Do we have faith to act despite our fears? If the LORD wants us to do something big, he will enable us to do it. God specializes in doing things only he can do. He deserves all our praise!
Discussion
What challenging thing has God asked you to do? How has he provided for or given you the ability to do it?
Courage is not a lack of fear; it is the will to do what is right despite it. Do you agree or disagree? Why?
Focus Verse
Matthew 19:26 (NIV) “Jesus looked at them and said, ‘With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.’”
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Looking Ahead: When God works on our behalf, like Israel we can Praise God. Learn why this is so important. Join us for our Next Lesson.
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