Even though the people were afraid of the local residents, they rebuilt the altar at its old site. -Ezra 3:3 (NLT)
After 70 years of exile in Babylon and Persia, the Israelites returned to the Promised Land to rebuild their nation. The Temple of Solomon, the place God had set-aside for worship, was a top priority in the reconstruction. The surrounding nations quickly took notice. They did everything they could to intimidate and put a halt to the rebuilding.
Given the many hurdles the nation of Israel had to overcome, it would have been easy for them to give up, and just leave the temple as it was, but they didn't. Instead, we learn from today's verse, they persevered and rebuilt the altar, despite the obstacles and in spite of their fear.
Courage isn't the absence of fear. Courage is acting DESPITE fear.
What's the “altar” God has called you to build? Is it joining a church? Is it becoming part of a small group? Is it signing up for, or even starting, a ministry? Is it sharing with your neighbor or coworker that you're a Christian and extending an invitation to church?
Whatever the “altar” it is that God has called you to build, I want to encourage you with this:
Don't falter. Build the altar.
That may sound a little cheesy, but you get the idea. Get to work on what God has called you to do. Ignore the people who are trying to talk you out of it. When fear starts to overwhelm you, focus on the promises God has given you.
The more you obey God in faith, the more faith God will give you.
Don't falter. Build the altar.
TALK ABOUT IT
- What's the “altar” you feel God has called you to build right now?
- What steps do you need to take to begin to build your altar? Who can come alongside you and give you the encouragement, support, and guidance you need to keep going?
