In what ways can we support God's work, as seen in Ezra 1:1? The Historical Moment “In the first year of Cyrus king of Persia, in order to fulfill the word of the LORD spoken through Jeremiah, the LORD stirred the spirit of Cyrus king of Persia to make a proclamation throughout his kingdom and to put it in writing:” Cyrus, a pagan king, becomes God’s unexpected instrument. The Lord “stirred” his spirit, moving him to champion the rebuilding of the temple. This opening verse sets the tone for the entire return-from-exile narrative: God initiates, people respond. Key Observations from Ezra 1:1 • God always keeps His promises. The reference to Jeremiah (cf. Jeremiah 29:10) shows the precise fulfillment of a seventy-year prophecy. • God is sovereign over every authority (Proverbs 21:1). Even a foreign ruler’s heart is in His hand. • A willing heart is crucial. Cyrus acts because his spirit is “stirred.” Availability precedes ability. Practical Ways to Support God’s Work Today 1. Cultivate an Open, Responsive Heart • Ask the Lord to “stir” you as He did Cyrus. • Remain sensitive to Scripture; obedience begins with listening (James 1:22). 2. Honor God’s Promises by Acting in Faith • Trust that every command He gives is backed by an unbreakable promise (2 Peter 1:4). • Step out when Scripture calls, even before seeing results (Hebrews 11:8). 3. Use Your Influence for Kingdom Purposes • Cyrus leveraged his royal platform; likewise, leverage your workplace, social network, or home (Matthew 5:16). • Speak openly about God’s agenda, just as Cyrus issued a public proclamation. 4. Give Tangibly and Generously • Later verses show Cyrus sending resources (Ezra 1:4, 6). • Follow the same pattern: “God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7). • Remember that everything we have is from Him (1 Chronicles 29:14). 5. Encourage and Mobilize Others • Cyrus’s decree energized an entire nation. • Inspire fellow believers to serve, give, and go (Hebrews 10:24). 6. Pray for Leaders and Open Doors • If God can move Cyrus, He can move today’s authorities (1 Timothy 2:1-2). • Intercede for divine favor on gospel initiatives, church planting, and missions. 7. Align Personal Priorities with God’s Agenda • Seek first His kingdom (Matthew 6:33). • Evaluate time, finances, and talents in light of His redemptive plan. By following these patterns—listening, trusting, proclaiming, giving, encouraging, praying, and prioritizing—we actively support the unfolding work of God, just as Cyrus did in Ezra 1:1. |
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