Godly Influence

Ezra 4
18 “The letter you sent has been translated and read to me. 19 I ordered a search of the records and have found that Jerusalem has indeed been a hotbed of insurrection against many kings. In fact, rebellion and revolt are normal there! 20 Powerful kings have ruled over Jerusalem and the entire province west of the Euphrates River, receiving tribute, customs, and tolls. 21 Therefore, issue orders to have these men stop their work. That city must not be rebuilt except at my express command. 22 Be diligent, and don’t neglect this matter, for we must not permit the situation to harm the king’s interests.”

The rebuilding of Jerusalem had become a great concern for the enemies of God’s people during the reign of the Persian King Artaxerxes. Thus, we see this correspondence from the king ordering the halt to this rebuilding. Anything not in the king’s interests was not to be tolerated. Followers of the One True God don’t always share the same interests as the government in power. It is interesting to me as I read today’s passage, Artaxerxes changes his mind about the rebuilding of Jerusalem due to the influence of a godly man named Ezra. As Christ-Followers, the best thing we can do for our government, is to be the salt and light that changes the hearts and minds of those in government. That influence is not won by screaming opposition, but by living the Christian life.