In a community of faith, the behaviour of its members, even if a minority, profoundly influences the character of the group. Sin always destroys. To ignore its presence is to fuel its power.

With the Kings provisions and with 5000 volunteers Ezra travelled safely 900 miles across a dangerous desert and worships in the temple in Jerusalem.

This chapter introduces the author of the book, Ezra. His life provides us lessons on how and why God can really bless up.

Under God’s sovereign plan, two peoples, the ruler and the ruled – found mutual benefit at the temple altar. Darius, the Persian King, financed the temple project to completion, hoping to secure God’s favour. At the same time, the Jews celebrated by installing temple officials and observing the Passover Feast.

Inspired by God’s prophets, the Jews started the temple reconstruction afresh. As work commenced, Persian officials investigated the project, questioned the leaders, and sent a letter to King Darius asking his ruling on the restoration’s validity.

Have begun daily sacrifices and the building of the temple the people of Israel were hindered in the completion of the temple by the people surrounding Jerusalem. Though we may start well in our Christian life we need to be aware of Satan’s strategies to hinder our spiritual development.

On the return of those Jews under the leadership of Zerubbabel they settled in and around Jerusalem. Their first major task was to build an altar and then rebuild the temple. When the foundations of the temple was completed and the daily sacrifices continued there was great rejoicing by the people.

God’s all-around sovereignty and humanity’s capacity for choice exist together. God is absolute and unrivalled in his actions and authority; While the man is free and responsible for his action, their hearts can be moved by divine intervention.