Restoration: A Study in EzraSample

What does it say?

The Israelites briefly stopped working when they faced opposition, but the work resumed after Haggai and Zechariah encouraged the people.

What does it mean?

When kings of surrounding enemy nations noticed the Israelite’s progress in rebuilding their temple, they became concerned. They feared the Israelites would be too powerful upon the project’s completion. The Israelites faced accusations and repeated challenges to account for what they were doing. When work stopped for a time, the enemies seemed to have succeeded. However, this reconstruction was vital to the people’s covenant relationship with God, and it had to be completed. Haggai and Zechariah’s encouraging words helped the Israelites continue the work regardless of what faced them.

How should I respond?

Facing opposition should not come as a surprise when we seek to serve and honor God. Satan likes nothing better than to foul up anything we are doing that furthers God’s plans. What setback has discouraged you from following God’s will? It’s important to keep going. Continuing to work despite roadblocks now will make it easier next time. It will also give you the tools to help someone else in the same situation. Don’t give up! Your endurance through tough times may encourage someone else to keep going.