Scripture:

Meanwhile the prophets Haggai and Zechariah son of Iddo were preaching to the Jews in Judah and Jerusalem in the authority of the God of Israel who ruled them. And so Zerubbabel son of Shealtiel and Jeshua son of Jozadak started again, rebuilding The Temple of God in Jerusalem. The prophets of God were right there helping them. Tattenai was governor of the land beyond the Euphrates at this time. Tattenai, Shethar-Bozenai, and their associates came to the Israelites and asked, “Who issued you a permit to rebuild this Temple and restore it to use?” Then we told them the names of the men responsible for this construction work. But God had his eye on the leaders of the Jews, and the work wasn’t stopped until a report could reach Darius and an official reply be returned.

                               Ezra 5:1–5 MSG 

Reflection:

                             Help the Leaders in the Rebuilding

Fifty thousand Israelite men returned to Jerusalem from exile under the leadership of Zerubbabel and Joshua to rebuild the temple. After completing the foundation, they faced opposition, which halted construction for sixteen years. It wasn’t until the prophets Zechariah and Haggai arrived that they were encouraged to start rebuilding. Despite years of discouragement and opposition, when the prophets said it was time to start rebuilding, Zerubbabel regained his faith, found his passion, and rose to lead the people.

Where do we go from here?

Today, you might be experiencing delays, opposition, and setbacks in pursuing your dreams and desires. Sometimes, it can feel like the enemy is winning and everything is falling apart. You are in a situation similar to Zerubbabel’s. However, God has not changed His mind. He is still saying, “Your dreams will come true.” Now, it’s your turn to rise up. Regain your passion and start believing again. This is a new day. Get ready. What didn’t work out the first time is about to happen.

Our Prayer for Today

Father, thank you for the dreams and desires you have placed in our hearts. Thank you for the assurance that setbacks and opposition cannot change your plans and that a breakthrough is coming. We believe that it is time to rise and start anew. In Jesus’ name, amen.