Ezra 4:3
But Zerubbabel, Joshua and the rest of the heads of the families of Israel answered, “You have no part with us in building a temple to our God. We alone will build it for the Lord, the God of Israel, as King Cyrus, the king of Persia, commanded us.”
Shalom sdr, my devotion today, Sat, Nov. 20, NO PART (Ezr. 4:3). When the people of Israel rebuilt the temple, many people from the surrounding places, wanted to take part in that rebuilding. But the leaders refused them to take part in the rebuilding. Why?
1. They were enemies.
Their background were the enemies of The Israelites. How could they take part in the rebuilding of the temple. Although, they seemed had changed, but they could not directly take part in the rebuilding of something sacred and holy.
2. They were gentiles.
Moreover, they were gentiles. They could brag to the world, that they had taken part in the rebuilding. The history would record their part. That was not good.
3. They were outsiders.
They were not commanded by King Cyrus. If they took part, then, The Israelites could be charged by the king as not obedient. As not trustworthy. The king didn’t ask them to find help. The king didn’t give them the right to do that. So, let’s be trustworthy in our duties and tasks. ASH.
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