Summary
Scripture
“In the first year of Cyrus king of Persia, that the word of the LORD by the mouth of Jeremiah might be fulfilled, the LORD stirred up the spirit of Cyrus king of Persia, so that he made a proclamation throughout all his kingdom and also put it in writing … Then rose up the heads of the fathers’ houses of Judah and Benjamin, and the priests and the Levites, everyone whose spirit God had stirred to go up to rebuild the house of the LORD that is in Jerusalem” (Ezra 1:1, 5).
Observation
To begin reconstructing the temple, the Lord chose an unlikely instrument: King Cyrus, the ruler and founder of the Persian Empire, where the Jews were in exile. This monarch issued a decree allowing the Jews to return to Jerusalem, equipped with resources to rebuild the temple. It’s noteworthy that almost three decades had passed since the Jews’ initial exile. By this time, the second and third generations born in exile had settled into their new lives, finding their circumstances favorable and showing reluctance to return to Jerusalem. However, some among them remained steadfast in their faith, likely due to Daniel and Ezekiel’s consistent teachings in Babylon.
When the “Lord stirred up the spirit of Cyrus” (Ez. 1:1), he publicly declared, “The LORD, the God of heaven, has bestowed upon me all the kingdoms of the earth, and he has entrusted me with building Him a sanctuary in Jerusalem, which is in Judah” (Ez. 1:2). This suggests that, although Cyrus was not a convert, he acknowledged the God of Israel in some divine capacity. Regardless of his personal beliefs, God influenced his decision. Similarly, God inspired a remnant of the Jews, showcasing His divine intervention and influence to keep His promises. Yahweh stirred.
Application
God can stir anyone, even those who don’t believe in Him, to align with His divine plans. Proverbs 21:1 says, “The king’s heart is a stream of water in the hand of the LORD; he directs it wherever he pleases.” God’s actions are always purposeful, and His sovereignty ensures the fulfillment of His promises. How frequently do I turn to the Lord, requesting Him to guide the hearts of skeptical leaders toward righteousness and justice? Can I find solace in His plan when faced with disbelief from those in authority over me or others? Seek and place unwavering trust in Him, who is able.
Prayer
Lord, in moments of doubt, I often forget and rely on my strength, especially when faced with disbelieving superiors who seem to obstruct the path of Your followers. Yet, You hold the power to touch both believers and non-believers alike. No heart is beyond Your reach or Your transformative grace. Today, I ask You to stand beside my child who feels oppressed by those above them. Only You can alter hearts and transform situations. Even the most stubborn can be swayed to align with Your divine purpose. Grant my child and me the patience and faith to wait on Your perfect timing. Your plans and pace are always just.
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