RIDING THE WAVES OF DISCOURAGEMENT

RIDING THE WAVES OF DISCOURAGEMENT

(Ezra)

The Israelites were captives in Babylon,

Where God was punishing them.

When Cyrus, the king, inspired by God,

Let them go to Jerusalem.

He returned the golden vessels,

Carried off by a former king.

So 50,000 returned to their homeland,

Two hundred of them could sing.

The foundations were laid in the second year;

They were dedicated with joy.

But then their adversaries,

Made it their job to annoy.

Their enemies offered their help while saying,

They seek God and they sacrifice.

But the people were wise to their lies;

They knew they were not making nice.

Others discouraged the workers;

They said things to make them afraid.

They hired counselors to work against them,

As the stones were being laid.

They tried to frustrate their plans;

Accusations were made against them.

Then they took their case to the king,

And managed to deceive him.

God's people waited for a new king,

Then the situation was repeated.

This time the king found Cyrus’s decree,

So they were no longer mistreated.

He decreed they must not be disturbed,

And exempted them from tributes.

He supplied all their needs for offerings,

For the people to distribute.

God is a God of forgiveness;

He offers hope and restoration.

When remorse and repentance are shown,

He responds to the man or the nation.

Becky Wall