Having reviewed the prophecies of Haggai and Zechariah we can now return to the context of their ministry as recorded in the book of Ezra. As I have pointed out, when the opposition to the temple arose, the people gave up far too easily. When a task is particularly difficult we will often use any excuse to give up. The opposition provided them with this excuse, but, ironically, the opposition was unfounded. As things turned out, it would only take a small amount of determination on the part of the Jews to uncover the hollowness of the resistance. When the Jews took up the building program again, the Samaritans sent a letter to the Emperor, Darius, who had his records checked. It was found out that the charges of the opposition party were unfounded and that the Jews were not only permitted to build the temple but had been encouraged by King Cyrus to do so. As a result, they were given substantial financial support from the royal Persian treasury! So, in the end the opposition not only failed, but greatly accelerated the building project. The moral of the story is that opposition is often a blessing in disguise. God has a way of turning opposition to the advantage of his plan. So, when you encounter opposition, don’t be discouraged. Persevere through it because God may have a cunning plan in progress. Opposition strengthens those who persevere.
Reflect on what God may be calling you to persevere with.
Read Ezra 5 and 6
