Rebuilding in the Face of Opposition

Dearly Beloved, 

Day 353: Bible in One Year Devotion🙏🙏

In today’s reading from Proverbs 30:24-33, Ezra 2:68-70, Ezra 3, Ezra 4:1-5, and Revelation 9:13-21, Revelation 10, we see the power of small things used wisely, the dedication of God's people to rebuild His temple, and the spiritual battles that take place both on earth and in heaven. Together, these scriptures show us the importance of perseverance, faith, and preparation in fulfilling God's purposes.

In Proverbs 30:24-33, we are introduced to small creatures, such as ants, who demonstrate wisdom far beyond their size. Though they are small, their foresight and planning allow them to thrive. This serves as a powerful reminder to us that we don’t need to be mighty in strength to accomplish great things. God values wisdom, diligence, and preparation. Just as the ants prepare in advance for winter, we are called to be wise and diligent in our spiritual preparation, storing up God’s word and prayer in our hearts for the times when we face challenges.

In Ezra 2:68-70, the exiles who returned to Jerusalem demonstrated their commitment by giving generously according to their ability to the rebuilding of the temple. Their gifts were essential to restoring worship in the temple and bringing God’s people back to a place of communion with Him. This act of generosity reminds us that God often calls us to give and serve according to what we have, not based on what we lack. Each contribution, whether large or small, is vital to the building of God's kingdom. In Ezra 3, the people begin rebuilding the temple despite having only a foundation to stand on. With joy, they praised God for His faithfulness, even as they longed for the temple’s full restoration. Their act of rebuilding in the midst of uncertainty mirrors our own journey of faith—trusting God to finish the work He has started in us.

However, in Ezra 4:1-5, opposition soon arises. The enemies of Judah and Benjamin discouraged the people and tried to stop the rebuilding process. This opposition reminds us that whenever we set out to do God’s work, challenges will come. The enemy seeks to hinder our progress, but as God’s people, we are called to persevere in faith, trusting that God will overcome every obstacle. The lesson here is clear: we must expect resistance, but we must not be discouraged. The God who called us to the work is faithful to see it through.

In Revelation 9:13-21, we see a terrifying vision of the sixth trumpet, where angels bound at the Euphrates River are released, bringing destruction upon a third of mankind. This graphic depiction of judgment serves as a reminder of the severity of sin and the coming judgment for those who reject God. However, even amid judgment, many refuse to repent, highlighting the hardness of human hearts. This passage urges us to remain vigilant in our faith and to share the gospel, knowing that time is short.

In Revelation 10, we see another vision of a mighty angel holding a small scroll. John is instructed to eat the scroll, which is sweet in his mouth but bitter in his stomach. This symbolizes the bittersweet nature of God's Word—full of hope and promise for those who believe, but also full of judgment for those who reject it. Like John, we are called to internalize God’s message and faithfully proclaim it to others, no matter how difficult it may be.

As we meditate on these passages, we are reminded that God's work will always face opposition, whether through external enemies or spiritual battles. However, just as the exiles persevered in rebuilding the temple, we too must persevere in building our spiritual lives and God’s kingdom. Though the journey may be difficult, we are empowered by the Holy Spirit to overcome every obstacle. God's purposes will prevail, and we are called to faithfully participate in His work through our prayers, our giving, and our service.

Prayer: Lord, we thank You for the wisdom You give us to persevere in the face of opposition. Help us to remain steadfast in building Your kingdom, even when challenges arise. Strengthen our faith and give us the courage to proclaim Your truth, trusting that You will fulfill Your promises. Amen.