WORK FOR GOD WITHOUT FEAR

by Dorcas Kulwa | 16 January 2020 08:46 pm01

WORK FOR GOD WITHOUT FEAR

Blessed be the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. Welcome as we study the Word of God.

One of Satan’s favorite strategies to stop God’s work is through fear and intimidation. In the Old Testament, after 70 years of Babylonian exile, God brought the Israelites back to their land and commanded them to rebuild the temple (Ezra 1:1–4, ESV). They began the work in Jerusalem, but soon faced opposition.

Their enemies, seeing the temple being rebuilt, reported to King Artaxerxes, falsely claiming the Israelites were rebuilding a rebellious city. The king ordered the work to stop, and out of fear, the Israelites abandoned the project.

Ezra 4:11–24 (ESV) records:

“They wrote to King Artaxerxes, saying, ‘Your servants who are beyond the River… have come to Jerusalem and are rebuilding the rebellious and wicked city… Now if this city is rebuilt… you will have no tax or tribute from us, and the kings before you will suffer loss…’”

This demonstrates a timeless spiritual principle: fear of earthly authority can sometimes outweigh the fear of God. The Israelites delayed fulfilling God’s command, showing how opposition and intimidation can paralyze even God’s chosen people.

However, God sent His prophets, Haggai and Zechariah, to encourage them to rebuild without fear. He assured them that His presence and blessing would accompany their obedience (Haggai 1:8–11; Zechariah 4:6, ESV). When the Israelites obeyed, gathered materials, and resumed construction, their enemies reported them again to the king.

But God miraculously turned the king’s heart. Instead of opposing the Jews, the king supported them financially and politically (Ezra 6:1–15, ESV). This shows a theological truth: God can work through governments and rulers to accomplish His purposes (Daniel 2:21, ESV). The temple was completed successfully, and God blessed Israel abundantly.

Key theological lessons from Ezra’s account:

Obedience over fear – God calls His people to act in faith, even when facing opposition. Waiting in fear yields no fruit.
Divine providence – God can move the hearts of kings and rulers to support His plans (Proverbs 21:1, ESV).
Prophetic encouragement – God provides His prophets or spiritual leaders to strengthen His people when fear threatens to halt His work.

This teaches us today: we must not fear doing God’s work. The Lord Jesus Christ commands and assures us:

Matthew 28:19–20 (ESV):

“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

God’s presence accompanies the faithful, regardless of opposition. Even if authorities forbid the preaching of the gospel, His Word will advance. Jesus’ promise is as real for us today as it was for the Israelites in Ezra’s time.

Consider also Acts 5:17–32 (ESV): the apostles were imprisoned by the high priest and Sadducees. An angel of the Lord opened the prison doors at night, releasing them to continue preaching. When confronted, Peter boldly declared:

(Acts 5:29, ESV)

“We must obey God rather than men.” (Acts 5:29, ESV)

Theologically, this shows that God’s authority supersedes all earthly authority, and obedience to Him is paramount. No human law, government, or threat can nullify God’s command. The gospel will be proclaimed, and God will ensure its spread (Isaiah 55:11, ESV).

Romans 8:31 (ESV) reminds us:

“What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?”

Therefore, stand boldly and preach the gospel today. Do not focus on circumstances or dangers. Jesus promised that He will be with His servants to the very end of the age.

If you have not yet accepted Christ, repent today, turn away from sin, and receive the gift of the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:38, ESV).

Additional Theological Insight:

The work of God is never dependent on human approval; it is anchored in divine authority (Daniel 4:35, ESV).Opposition is a test of faith, meant to refine obedience and reliance on God (James 1:2–4, ESV).God equips His servants for boldness and effectiveness through His Spirit (Acts 1:8, ESV).

Maranatha! The Lord is coming.

DOWNLOAD PDF

Source URL: https://wingulamashahidi.org/en/2020/01/16/55267/