““The king should know that the Jews who came here to Jerusalem from Babylon are rebuilding this rebellious and evil city. They have already laid the foundation and will soon finish its walls. And the king should know that if this city is rebuilt and its walls are completed, it will be much to your disadvantage, for the Jews will then refuse to pay their tribute, customs, and tolls to you. “Since we are your loyal subjects and do not want to see the king dishonored in this way, we have sent the king this information. We suggest that a search be made in your ancestors’ records, where you will discover what a rebellious city this has been in the past. In fact, it was destroyed because of its long and troublesome history of revolt against the kings and countries who controlled it. We declare to the king that if this city is rebuilt and its walls are completed, the province west of the Euphrates River will be lost to you.” Then King Artaxerxes sent this reply: “To Rehum the governor, Shimshai the court secretary, and their colleagues living in Samaria and throughout the province west of the Euphrates River. Greetings. “The letter you sent has been translated and read to me. I ordered a search of the records and have found that Jerusalem has indeed been a hotbed of insurrection against many kings. In fact, rebellion and revolt are normal there! Powerful kings have ruled over Jerusalem and the entire province west of the Euphrates River, receiving tribute, customs, and tolls. Therefore, issue orders to have these men stop their work. That city must not be rebuilt except at my express command. Be diligent, and don’t neglect this matter, for we must not permit the situation to harm the king’s interests.” When this letter from King Artaxerxes was read to Rehum, Shimshai, and their colleagues, they hurried to Jerusalem. Then, with a show of strength, they forced the Jews to stop building.”
Ezra 4:12-23 NLT
This world is ruled by forces believing themselves to be equal to God and enemies against him. They have wrongly decided to set themselves up in his path. In Eden man was conscripted into their side of things. Thusly, we fell into their rebellious ways and will receive the consequences which they will earn when all things are concluded and reconciled. Thankfully, Jesus brought us back through his blood and sacrifice. That said, their is still a war, an enmity between the world and God. Though we are now on the winning and original side, we cannot forget that if God has enemies, then so do we. These institutions and people seek God’s demise and are willing to view us as collateral damage in that process. Our eyes must be on and our head must be on a swivel of discernment. We should never be surprised when opposition to God’s callings manifests in our lives. We must remain steadfast and allow God’s plan to overtake whatever evil designs have been laid. Not even death could stop him. Just be faithful , trust his character and give him time and all things will be reconciled in the end.
JOSH McGARY. COM 