Dave's Diary

Daily Readings: Ezra 5 and Psalm 7

The Jewish exiles who had returned to Jerusalem to rebuild the Temple had been forced to stop by political intervention from local opponents (See Ezra 4). For a few years the work was at a standstill and the people focussed on rebuilding their own homes instead. So, as time passed, the construction of the Temple slipped off their priority lists. And then, in God’s perfect time, the prophets Haggai and Zechariah stepped into the fray. Ezra doesn’t record their exact words, but the book of Haggai certainly does in Chapter 1:

² This is what the Lord Almighty says: ‘These people say, “The time has not yet come to rebuild the Lord’s house.”’

³ Then the word of the Lord came through the prophet Haggai: ⁴ ‘Is it a time for you yourselves to be living in your panelled houses, while this house remains a ruin?’

(Haggai 1:2-4)

God’s words of rhetorical rebuke through the prophets spurred the Jewish leaders Joshua and Zerubabel into action. The people reprioritised; the work on the Temple resumed; and the prophets stood with them in their building endeavours.

We all sometimes need a nudge to get us to act in accordance with the Lord’s will. A timely word of encouragement or correction from a trusted brother or sister in Christ might be all we need. But how much more powerful that word is when the one who spoke it is willing to put their energy where their words are and stand shoulder to shoulder with us in the trenches.

Is there someone in your life who needs your word of encouragement today? Is there someone you need to call, or send a message to? That word may be all they need to catalyse them into doing something great. But could it also be that God has a greater call for you? Is there someone you need to work alongside as they pursue God’s calling?

Heavenly Father please guide me. Give me the right words to speak to others. Show me how I can get alongside someone today to encourage and support them. Please give me wisdom to see my opportunities, and the courage, strength and endurance to put my energy where my words are. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.