Momentum For Monday, January 9th 2023

"…Let us build with you, for we also worship your God…" (Ezra 4:2)

There's a valuable lesson tucked in this chapter. Anyone that is willing to listen should lean in and take heed. The warning is this- not everyone who acts like a friend is a friend. Let me explain.

At this point in history in Scripture, Jewish exiles had been held captive in Babylon. Upon their return, the Jews were rebuilding the temple on its original site. In the midst of fulfilling this, the people of God are approached and asked to partner with another group of people. The leaders of the Jews quickly declined, and without understanding and insight, they look harsh for doing so. However, more needs to be understood.

If you don't understand the text, you could easily misinterpret the message of this to say that you cannot befriend other people who are not like you. That's not it. These adversaries that approached them were the Samaritans. Samaritans had a history of worshipping Jehovah, but not the way the Jews did. They may have feared THE God, but they worshipped their own gods, other, gods (2 Kings 17:33). They were more about customs and traditions than Yahweh. Needless to say, when Jewish leaders quickly rejected the Samaritans offer and they were in the right.

Here's the biggest kicker. The reason the Jews were in captivity in the first place was due to idolatry. God's people had a mission, a calling, to rebuild a temple for THE God (whom does not tolerate deceit and idolatry) and returning to the very thing they were exiled for would be foolish. This work was holy and personal to the Jews. Besides, let's not forget that temples are for worship, adjoining with the Samaritans would crack a door wide open for division of worship.

So my friend, if you are on a mission to fulfill a call of what God has purposed you to do, be aware. There is a very real devil looking to cloak himself in a friendly manner to "build with you." Distractions come in all forms. Not everyone with a warm smile means it. Not everyone who claims to worship God, actually means the Christian, triune God. Not everyone who attends your church has the same intent for going. You will need to draw on the discernment of the Holy Spirit to help you in those times. Don't feel bad for saying no to some partnerships or friends.

And can I just hit one more point to wrap this up? May God also help us not to return to the things that got us caught up in captivity in the first place. Amen?

"Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience. Therefore do not become partners with them; for at one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light…"

Ephesians 5:6-8