Ezra 5

In the previous chapter of Ezra, we learned that there was some fierce opposition to the rebuilding of the temple in Jerusalem. It continued in this chapter: "At that time Tattenai, governor of Trans-Euphrates, and Shethar-Bozenai and their associates went to them and asked, 'Who authorized you to rebuild this temple and to finish it?' They also asked, 'What are the names of those who are constructing this building?' But the eye of their God was watching over the elders of the Jews, and they were not stopped until a report could go to Darius and his written reply be received." (vs 3-5)

When facing such opposition, how comforting it must have been for these Israelites to know that God was watching over them. It didn’t matter who tried to sabotage their efforts. It didn’t matter how much red tape they were put through. God, through King Cyrus, had issued a decree to rebuild the temple. They were carrying out His wishes, and they knew that He would be with them.

I don’t know about you, but it is so easy for me to forget that God is watching over me. It’s so easy to lose sight of the fact that God’s eye is on me. He knows me. He cares about me. And He is for me. (By the way, He knows you. He cares about you. And He is for you, too.) If I kept that in mind, maybe it would be easier to not let myself get discouraged by other people.

I’m sure you’ve had similar experiences. You’re trying to follow God’s will for your life, trying to be guided by the Spirit, and inevitably, somebody (well-meaning or not) comes along and rains on your parade. Maybe they discourage you. Or maybe they outright oppose you. In fact, for a time, maybe it appears as though they will get the better of you, be able to shut down what you’re trying to do for God.

When those kinds of things happen, don’t let it discourage you. Remember that the eye of your God is watching over you. He sees what you’re doing. He knows where your heart is at. And at just the right time, He will advance you as you follow His plan for your life. The distractions and the opposition of others won’t be able to obstruct your path if you keep your mind on Him. Remember that He knows you, He cares about you, He is for you, and in every way, He is always watching over you.