How can we support God's work like the people in Ezra 1:6 did? Context: Returning to a Ruined Temple Cyrus has issued a decree releasing the exiles to go back to Jerusalem and rebuild the house of the LORD (Ezra 1:1–4). Immediately, “everyone whose spirit God had stirred” prepared to go (v. 5). Ezra 1:6 captures how the whole community—those going and those staying—participated. > “And all their neighbors supported them with articles of silver, gold, goods, livestock, and valuable gifts, in addition to all the freewill offerings.” A Snapshot of God-Stirred Generosity • “All their neighbors” joined in—support was broad, not limited to a select few. • They gave tangible goods: silver, gold, supplies, animals. • They added “valuable gifts,” showing they did not hang on to prized possessions. • Everything was over and above regular “freewill offerings”; this was sacrificial, extra giving. Principles We Can Live Out Today • Whole-Body Participation – Romans 12:4-5 reminds us that every member of Christ’s body has a part. Everyone can contribute something—no one is insignificant. • Open-Handed Stewardship – Psalm 24:1—everything belongs to the LORD first. – Proverbs 3:9—honor Him with our wealth and firstfruits. • Generosity Rooted in Worship – Exodus 35:21 shows Israel bringing materials for the tabernacle “whose hearts were stirred.” Giving is an act of devotion, not mere philanthropy. • Above-and-Beyond Sacrifice – 2 Corinthians 8:3—they gave “beyond their ability.” – 2 Corinthians 9:7—God loves a cheerful giver, not a reluctant one. Practical Ways to Support God’s Work Material Resources • Regular tithes and offerings to your local church. • Designated gifts for missions, Bible translation, or church-planting projects. • One-time sacrificial gifts when special needs arise. Time and Skills • Volunteer labor—a modern “goods and livestock” donation of sweat equity. • Professional expertise (accounting, legal help, carpentry, tech support). Encouragement and Advocacy • Use social platforms and personal networks to highlight kingdom projects. • Write notes, send verses, or host missionaries to refresh those on the front lines (3 John 8). Hospitality • Provide lodging, meals, and transportation for ministry teams or traveling teachers (Romans 12:13). Legacy Giving • Include gospel ministries in wills or estate plans, echoing the “valuable gifts” of Ezra’s neighbors. Motivation: God’s Promised Harvest • Luke 6:38—“Give, and it will be given to you.” • Malachi 3:10—the windows of heaven open for those who bring the whole tithe. • Philippians 4:17—fruit “credited to your account” as you share in gospel work. By embracing these principles and actions, we mirror the generous, united response of Ezra 1:6 and participate in the advancing, visible work of God in our generation. |
    |