Examine Their Motives

But Zerubbabel, Jeshua, and the other leaders of Israel replied, “You may have no part in this work. We alone will build the Temple for the Lord, the God of Israel, just as King Cyrus of Persia commanded us.” Ezra 4:3 NLT

When you are a child, parents take the time to teach you good manners. They begin when you are very young, even before you can speak. Parents teach little ones to say please when they make a request and thank you when they receive the item. It’s also considered good manners to help someone who is working if it’s within your ability to do so.  However, as you get older, you realize that not every offer to help is what it seems. So you have to evaluate every request individually.

Ezra and the leaders of his time embarked on a project to rebuild the Temple. When they were wondering in the wilderness, God instructed Moses to build the Ark of Covenant as a symbol of God’s presence with them. Later, although David desired to build the Temple, it was built by Solomon. When the people disobeyed God, God allowed other nations to conquer them and their Temple was destroyed. When their enemies noticed that they were rebuilding the Temple, they were displeased.

When those who want to do you harm hear that you are working on a project, they love to offer their services. Many times, you are exhausted and are so happy for the help that you never examine their motives. These leaders understood the importance of this task and when the enemy offered help, they rejected the offer. When you are doing the work of ministry, examine those who want to get involved. Not every offer to help is genuine; ask God for wisdom and let Him direct your path.

Thought for Today: Friend, you need to know when to say no to help.

Have a blessed day and walk in faith and victory.