Do not interfere
with the work on this temple of God (Ezra 6:7).
When the returning
exiles set about their work to rebuild the temple (as was ordered by King
Cyrus), they encountered opposition from their neighbors. After the death of
Cyrus, those neighbors sent complaints to the new king who ordered work on the
temple to stop because of Judah’s history as a trouble maker.
Then Haggai and
Zechariah (two prophets we’ll be hearing from in coming months) encouraged the
people of Jerusalem to get back to work. Another complaint was made to the king
(still another king by this time) and further investigation uncovered the
original documents signed by Cyrus that ordered the people to rebuild the
temple, and even guaranteed that the government would cover the construction
costs!
At this point, King
Darius ordered that the Jews be left alone and that there be no additional
opposition to their building project. Furthermore, if anyone did oppose them,
they would be executed and their home turned into a pile of rubble. Needless to
say, construction continued without further interference and with the full
support of the king. The project was completed, and the people celebrated as
their enemies looked on in disbelief.
TODAY’S MEDITATION
Your enemy does not want
you to accomplish anything great in your life. But keep in mind, God has plans
for you. What difference does it make to have the support of the king?
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