Ezra, chapter 5 | Pablo Rios

God is always by our side. – God will fulfill His plan for our lives.

Our verse of reference in Ezra 5 is:

“Now Haggai the prophet and Zechariah the prophet, a descendant of Iddo, prophesied to the Jews in Judah and Jerusalem in the name of the God of Israel, who was over them.” (Ezra 5:1 NIV).

Reflection

God is on our side

Historical commentary.- Such was the condition among the people of Israel during the early part of the reign of Darius Hystaspes, both spiritually and emotionally, that they found themselves in a pitiful situation of darkness. With so much murmures and doubt among the people and after given preference to personal interests, while watching apathetically the Lord’s temple in ruins, God still offered them hope for those who trusted in Him. The prophets Haggai and Zechariah were raised to deal with the crisis. In their moving testimonies, these messengers revealed to the people the cause of their difficulties. Had the Israelites honored God, if they would have shown Him the respect and courtesy of building His house of worship first, He would have been invited to be present among them and bless them. PR 250.

God’s care through divine messages.- After the return from exile, is the first time that the Bible mentions that God sends two prophets to encourage and strengthen His people to continue building the temple. In the same way, today, we the Scripture, sent by God to the prophets, and find peace, encouragement and direction on how to continue to live in this world.

God watches over us.- When we are told that God watches over us, we are talking about His care, protection and guidance. In the storms and difficulties of life, God, a watchman who does not sleep, watch our waking up, our walking and sleeping. As a caring parent, protects us and keeps us from the snares of Satan. What an almighty God we have, who cares that everything in our lives is fulfilled in His good time, He will accomplish his purposes faithfully in our lives.

Prayer

Our Father which art in heaven, thank you for making us the apple of your eyes, thanks for watching over our every step and take us safely through the paths of life. We ask that your care may always be reflected in our lives. In the name of Jesus, amen.

By Dr. Franz Rios and Pablo J. Rios.

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