40 Weeks of Your Life: Ezra
07-24-2006
by Vicky Beeching

It's very likely that in the ancient texts, Ezra and Nehemiah used to be one single book. It's probable that Ezra wrote most of the book named after him, and also that he penned the books of 1 and 2 Chronicles. The final words in 2 Chronicles are the same as those in the opening chapter of Ezra, as if he had briefly paused to dip his pen in the ink, and continued his story into the next book…

The Book of Ezra tells us about Israel returning from exile. Cyrus was the new King and summoned all of the Jews home to rebuild the Temple. This was a time of great joy as the Jews had not been in their homeland since Jerusalem fell years earlier (see 2 Chronicles 36:15-21).

Chapter 1 tells us that the Spirit of God stirred up Cyrus the King, to lead him to call the Jews back to their homeland. It shows that God can and will move to make His plans and purposes come to pass.

Chapter 1 verse 7 describes Cyrus taking the precious gold and silver Temple dishes and decorations out of captivity. Nebuchadnezzar had stolen them and taken them away from the Temple, much to Israel's pain. Seeing Cyrus bring them out and put them back in their rightful place is a reminder that God can restore all situations. He can turn around the darkest of nights, and do a total 180-degree change to bad circumstances.

Nehemiah and Ezra both tell the story of the rebuilding of the Temple. We all know that nothing worthwhile can be done without some struggle, and that was the case with this project. The Temple was in ruins and although it was a joy for God's people to rebuild it, there was opposition from their enemies.

Having a Temple meant Israel were stronger as a nation in faith and identity. That made them more of a threat to their enemies, who tried to stop them from building. They wrote to the Kings and claimed that the building process was a rebellion that needed to be stopped.

Sadly the letters worked and 4:24 tells us that building ceased. But God worked through the prayers of His people, and they were able to start again and finish the work! Ezra was a key leader in making this happen - and an inspiration to us to lead and encourage God's people.

This book reminds me that when God makes a promise He always keeps it. His said that Israel would return and rebuild their Temple, and they did. Don't let current circumstances make you doubt what God has promised. Its fulfillment is just around the corner.