The Lord stirred up the spirit…

As I read this portion in the book of Ezra, the phrase “The Lord stirred up the spirit…” (Ezra 1:1) would not leave my heart. I kept thinking about it again and again. That phrase spoke to me about the power of God; of how God can accomplish His will through anyone or by any means. Time or powers of this world cannot restrict God. Our God is mighty and He is able!

The historic event described in Ezra was foretold by Isaiah almost 150 years before it happened. At the time of this prophecy, the Babylonians were the world power and Judah was in captivity in Babylon. It is amazing to read the Prophet Isaiah talking about Cyrus, King of Persia by name! There is no way Isaiah could have called him by name unless God who is transcendent and knows the end from the beginning had not revealed it to him! Is 44:28 says, “Who says of Cyrus, ‘He is My shepherd, and he shall perform all My pleasure, saying to Jerusalem, “You shall be built, and to the temple, “Your foundation shall be laid.”

And at the right time in history, God stirred up the spirit of Cyrus to accomplish His pleasure! Even today it is true. It is God who sets up authorities and rulers in this world.

My friend, do not be unduly anxious about the trials you are facing today.There is nothing we can do by worrying; for it is God who has to ‘stir the spirit’ or move the hearts of people or fight on our behalf. When God stirs somebody or something, nobody can stop it!

Our trials actually prepare our hearts and minds to receive and retain the blessings God has prepared for us. I can confidently say that God has made me who I am today only through all my tears.

My friend, never lose hope. Cling to His promises. Take joy in His corrections. Be obedient to the Word. We have a mighty God, who in His time will stir up the hearts so that we can receive the deliverance we have been longing for.

Categories: Weekly DevotionalsAuthor: Hephzibah StephenDate: 9th August 2017 Share: newsletterDisplay date: 9th August 2017

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