Ezra 4-6: Have you ever felt called to something and you stepped out on faith then there seemed to be someone trying to shut you down every 8th or 10th step? If you have then you can certainly understand how the Jews who returned to Jerusalem felt as they tried to rebuild the temple. At first all of the doors had opened wide with King Cyrus decreeing the rebuilding and even supplying what it would take to rebuild. Then they got started there were those who pretended to be on their side who “volunteered” to help with the project. Not everyone who volunteers has the same goals you have. Be careful who joins you on your journey. Then the same people who volunteered became the root of the problem as they went back to the King, this time a different one and demanded that the work stop and sent their “insights” as to the rebellion of this people group in the past. This king demanded a stoppage. As time passed, God did not let his people’s hearts and minds rest and within a time they were compelled to start the rebuilding again. This time when the king was approached, again a different king they sited the Cyrus’ decree and this time the king approved the rebuild and even demanded those who had tried to stand in the way provide the resources.
I wonder sometimes why God allows people to stand in the way of what He has called us to do. Maybe it is to help us to value the gifts He has given to us. I think sometimes we take for granted His favor in a process, and we look past the blessings we have already been given. It could be too He is testing our hearts to see if we will obey even in the face of adversity. Or maybe He is just reminding us to depend on Him and not to try to please the world around us. No matter His purpose, our job is to obey and to be found faithful. The end result of the building of the temple is that many could come and worship and those around could see God had not forgotten His people. He hasn’t forgotten you either. If He has called you to something and due to challenges you quit, start again. Don’t let obstacles prevent you from reaching the goals God has for you. I too am running with you my friend. I pray for strength for us as we run the race the Father has marked for us.