Text: Ezra 5:1-17
After the work stopped (chapter 4) Yahweh sent His prophets, Haggai and
Zechariah, to encourage the people to continue building. The people were emboldened and started building again. Even when the enemies returned and saw the Jews continuing to build and they threatened to report the rebellion to the King of Persia, the people continued building. The workers were even bold enough to give their names to their enemies confident that, the eye of their God was on them (v.5).
This is the Emmanuel principle – God is with us. This is what God told Moses (Ex.3:12), and what He told Joshua (Jos.1:5, 9), and what He now tells the people rebuilding the Temple. This is also the promise of Jesus to His people, as He sent them into the world to make disciples (Mat.28:20). The Christian life is frequently difficult, for many different reasons. Also remember, Christ’s Church (together and individually) is not alone. Whatever barrier, temptation, or opposition you are facing, keep your mind and heart focused on Jesus.
Therefore, you must stay in the Bible, which is God’s prophet.
Meditate on verse 5. What is God teaching in this verse?
Ever loving Father, in the name of Jesus Christ, I trust that Your eyes are on
me. Thank You for keeping watch over me. Amen.