Then the local residents tried to discourage and frighten the people of Judah to keep them from their work. 5They bribed agents to work against them and to frustrate their plans.

“The king should know that the Jews who came here to Jerusalem from Babylon are rebuilding this rebellious and evil city.

But because their God was watching over them, the leaders of the Jews were not prevented from building until a report was sent to Darius and he returned his decision.

‘We are the servants of the God of heaven and earth, and we are rebuilding the Temple that was built here many years ago by a great king of Israel. 12But because our ancestors angered the God of heaven, he abandoned them to King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon,5:12 Aramaic Nebuchadnezzar the Chaldean. who destroyed this Temple and exiled the people to Babylonia. 

Lord God my Father,

You are my Joy and delight; may I serve you and others using your truth and strength. Protect me from my opinions and attitude, allow your Love to direct me.

In Jesus name I pray,

Amen