NEVER GIVE UP!

In the Old Testament, we read from many writers that the Temple of God in Jerusalem, having been destroyed, was to be restored according to God's desire, but over and over the work was thwarted.
But, in the Book of Ezra, (Chap. 6:1,2), in the first year of King Cyrus of Babylon, he decreed by memorandum that the Temple could be re-built.  But the decree had become lost, having been stored away for years.  King Darius, in a later reign, had a search done for this memorandum and it was found in a citadel in Media, and it read: " Let the Temple be built...".  The then governor had the memorandum carried out "with diligence" and they started to re-build the temple, at last.


Ezra wrote about the temple's rebuilding, and its setbacks and standstills. But the temple was finally re-built and dedicated, with the people from each of the tribes of Israel celebrating and rejoicing. They offered  many bulls, rams and goats with proper accord and so the temple was properly celebrated.


The study following these particular chapters of Ezra offers many thoughts and suggestions. From the 4th chapter, the study says, "Discouragement and fear are two of the greatest obstacles to completing God's work, and they come when least expected.  Discouragement eats away at our motivation and fear paralyzes us so we don't act at all.  Recognize these common barriers.


Remember that God's people--in every age--have found these problems and with God's help over-came them.  By standing together with other believers, you can overcome fear and discouragement and complete God's will".


Also, the study added, "Needing to be bold when first questioned,  the people had proclaimed, "We are servants of God of heaven and earth" when the governor demanded to know who was attempting to rebuild the temple.  This, too, was not easy as speaking up for one's faith in an unbelieving world is most difficult.  The way to deal with pressure and intimidation is to recognize that we are workers for God.  Our allegiance to Him must be first, and to people second. When we contemplate the reactions and  criticisms of hostile people, we can become paralyzed with fear.  If we try to offend no one or to please everyone, we won't be effective.  God is our leader, and His rewards are most  important."


The statements you just read, I simply had to include from the study of Ezra.  The words were very satisfying and helpful to me and I hope to you.  I know I am often troubled by what other people think, and I, repeatedly, have to work it out by suggesting to myself some of the very words  I chose to include above.


So, let us not forget whom we serve by our words and actions, and let others know, also, that it is the Lord--only--whom we serve.


I say these words also for myself, and remain your servant and your friend.


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