Pray the word with David Platt as a resource from Radical.net.

Ezra chapter 4 verse 24,

then the work on the house of God that is in Jerusalem stopped.

It ceased until the second year of the reign of Darius,

King of Persia. So they're rebuilding the temple here at Ezra chapter 4

and we see a stoppage in the work, a delay.

And as I read this verse, I'm reminded that it's not uncommon

when obeying God in his work according to his word

to experience setbacks. Like obedience to God is rarely smooth

and without obstacles in this world. There's a spiritual battle that is real.

There is an adversary who does not want you or me to walk an obedience to

his word and setbacks in our obedience to his word

should be expected. And yet the whole picture here in Ezra chapter 4

is they keep pressing on ultimately through these setbacks.

And I'm just guessing that some people who are listening to this right now

are experiencing challenges, setbacks, hindrances, obstacles

because of your obedience to God and your desire and your

commitment and efforts to walk. You know, obedience to God's word to

proclaim the gospel to do whatever it is God is

leading calling you to do by his spirit according to his word

that you're experiencing challenges in the middle of that. And I just want to

encourage you. Don't be surprised. Setbacks are to be expected, challenges,

...