Read Ezra 5:1-17

After temple work was halted from 535 to 520 BC, Haggai and Zechariah encouraged and exhorted the people. The leaders knew the temple was essential to community life and to walking with God.

The hand of the Lord was upon them, and the favor of the Lord is unstoppable.

If God is for us, who can be against us? The crucifixion preceded the resurrection. God does His greatest work in the darkest times. The governor, Tattenai, investigated the project. The truth is that the rebuilding was approved, and proper authorization was validated. Yahweh would be exalted over all idols and false gods. There was a record of the original decree, and the work resumed. Not only were the Israelites granted permission, but they were also provided with supplies and funding to complete the work.

The provision of God should always be celebrated and told to future generations.

Share your story with family and friends about how God saved, strengthened, and protected you.