Ezra 4:4-5
^“ Then the people of the land weakened the hands of the people of Judah, and troubled them in building, And hired counsellors against them, to frustrate their purpose, all the days of Cyrus king of Persia, even until the reign of Darius king of Persia.”

Predictable Cycle of Conflict

Step #1 - The people of God had committed themselves to the will of God (rebuilding Temple). (Ezra 1-3)

Step #2 - The unbelieving world wanted them to compromise. (Ezra 4:1-3)

Step #3 - The people of God resisted.

Step #4 - Trouble came.

The Bible promises that everyone who seeks to do God’s will suffer opposition: (II Timothy 3:12)

It was true in Ezra’s day, in the first century and today.

Let us not look for conflict but let us not be surprised when it comes.

Today may we commit ourselves to doing the will of God from the heart, with love for God and for those we come in contact with.

Then let us accept the consequences. Even if they are not pleasant. 

All the time resting in God’s grace, following God’s word and being empowered by His Spirit.