Cease Striving

In the last few years, there seems to have been a huge rise in discouragement, especially among those in ministry.  It’s almost like everyone is collectively one step away from burnout. And why wouldn’t we be? The last few years have been unpredictable, difficult, and chaotic for everyone. 

In the beautiful book of Ezra, we find the people of Israel taking on a huge task: rebuilding the temple. The massive, majestic building that housed the Presence of God. Destroyed because of their sin, they finally had a chance to rebuild what once was. 

But as we know, this proved a very difficult and tedious task. Not only was the rebuilding itself a massive amount of work, but they faced opposition constantly, dragging them down on every side. And finally, in Ezra 4:4, we read the following: 

“Then the people of the land discouraged the people of Judah, and frightened them from building.” 

They were facing so much opposition and attacks from the people around them, they couldn’t take it anymore. Then in verse 24, we see the work grind to a halt altogether. They were defeated, discouraged, and frightened by the attacks of the enemy. 

As one of my college professors used to say, the minute you dedicate your life to ministry, you have a massive target painted on your back. The devil wants nothing more than to take out anyone doing the Lord’s work, anyone living for Him. A sobering reminder. But what I love about this chapter the most is what the people of Israel did next. 

Not much of anything. 

They didn’t assemble an army to fight everyone off. They were just trickling back after captivity, after all. They were tired, weak, discouraged, and afraid. 

So they just waited. They waited for God to do His thing. And He did, moving nations and kings around strategically until they were clear to rebuild. 

Because God’s purpose will not be thwarted, no matter how tired, weak, discouraged, or afraid you are. Hear me: God doesn’t rely solely on you. 

Yes, working diligently for the Lord is important. He invites us to participate in His work and partake of the immense blessing it offers. He disciplines us when we refuse to obey. Those of us who truly love Him will want to serve Him. But sometimes I think those in ministry start to feel that God depends solely on us to accomplish His purposes. He doesn’t. Bringing fulfillment is His responsibility alone. 

So what happened next in our story? They waited while God took care of the problem. Then they faithfully went back to work. And eventually, the temple was completed, and they celebrated with joy. Their worship was restored to it's former glory. 

So for anyone else feeling discouraged and burnt out with the “building” work of ministry, maybe take a lesson from the Israelites. Sit with God. Rest in Him. Cease striving and KNOW Him. Slip under the shadow of His wings. Be honest with Him about your discouragement and fear, instead of trying to fight it off yourself every single day. Let Him meet you there. That’s what He does best, anyway. 

Because in our weakness, He is strength.