This chapter informs us of opposition against the rebuilding of the temple.
“Then the people of the land discouraged the people of Judah and made them afraid to build and bribed counselors against them to frustrate their purpose, all the days of Cyrus king of Persia, even until the reign of Darius king of Persia. And… they wrote an accusation against the inhabitants of Judah and Jerusalem… Then, when the copy of King Artaxerxes’ letter was read… they went in haste to the Jews at Jerusalem and by force and power made them cease.” (v4-6, 23 abr)
At first Judah’s enemies tried to trick the Jews into stopping construction. When that didn’t work, they tried bribery and bullying. Finally, they wrote a letter to the new King of Persia (Artaxerxes), essentially tricking him into shutting down the reconstruction efforts. These people then forcefully shut down construction.
Persecution is defined as “hostility and ill-treatment, especially because of race or political or religious beliefs”, which is exactly what happened here. Unfortunately, persecution still continues to this day – in fact, it seems worse than ever.
We constantly observe widely differing opinions on most subject matters – religion, rights, vaccinations, restrictions, politics, etc. Unfortunately, no matter what opinion you hold, on any topic, someone will actively oppose you. It’s incredibly frustrating.
When we believe and act in ways that align with God, we’re essentially promised that we will suffer for this obedience. “…we are… fellow heirs with Christ… provided we suffer with him in order that we may also be glorified with him.” (Rm 8:16-17 abr)
I encourage us to endure any persecution for Jesus, and not be discouraged. Even though there’s a chance we’ll suffer and die for Christ, the reward in heaven will far outweigh any short-term suffering we may face. “For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us.” (Rm 8:18)
Father God, our Strong and Mighty Protector, You are our Rock and Salvation. May we never forget that suffering for You is a blessing, and having Your approval supersedes any other approval we may seek. May we never be discouraged to the point of turning away from You, and may we encourage others as they face difficult struggles. In the name of Jesus, who suffered far more than any of us will ever experience, amen.
~ Conqueror in Training