May 18 - Ezra 5-7

The work was in progress on the House of God.  Two prophets were sent to help them.  One of the prophets was named Zechariah which means, “The LORD Remembers,” HOW COOL IS THAT!  

After King Darius found out about the house of God being rebuilt he immediately ordered the building to stop.  Fortunately the prophets were there to make sure that the process continued.  A letter was written to King Darius.  It basically told him that they were granted permission to build the temple by King Cyrus, the previous ruler, and they were also told the temple would be funded by his kingdom.  It encouraged King Cyrus to do the research.

King Cyrus did the research and sure enough the Israelites were telling the truth.  He then wrote them back and gave them his blessing as well as told them how he planned to fund it.  He also told them that they would be protected by law.  He agreed to return stuff that was taken several generations ago.

The building continued and was completed.  Passover was celebrated.  The celebration was in honor of not only God, who (again) delivered them, but also for the completion of the temple and God changing the King's heart so that he would assist them in their work on the House of God.

In Chapter 7 we are introduced to Ezra, a teacher that knew the Law of Moses well.
(10) For Ezra had devoted himself to the study and observance of the Law of the Lord, and to teaching its decrees and laws in Israel.


In this chapter Ezra got a letter from King Artaxerxes that gives permission to any Israelites in his area to go back to Jerusalem with him.  He also tells Ezra he will give them gold and silver to use in a way that is pleasing to God.  God was with Ezra and his people.  It was evident to King Artaxerxes.  He was not going to stand in the way of the Lord.  -nic