Now in the first year of Cyrus king of Persia, that the word of the Lord by the mouth of Jeremiah might be fulfilled, the Lord stirred up the spirit of Cyrus king of Persia, that he made a proclamation throughout all his kingdom, and put it also in writing, saying, Thus saith Cyrus king of Persia, The Lord God of heaven hath given me all the kingdoms of the earth; and he hath charged me to build him an house at Jerusalem, which is in Judah. Who is there among you of all his people? his God be with him, and let him go up to Jerusalem, which is in Judah, and build the house of the Lord God of Israel, (he is the God,) which is in Jerusalem. (Ezra 1:1-3)
In Ezra 1, the people of God found themselves in a situation they never would have expected to be in. Yet, in difficulty, God’s mercy still showed when they turned to Him in faith. We must trust that God has a plan and that we play a part in it, even in the most challenging times. Our courage is not founded upon our ability to do the right things or our wisdom to know what we should do in every instance. We can be strong and courageous because we have a relationship with the One who does know.
God will move upon who He needs to fulfill His plan for your life. Never think you are too far behind or that it has been too long to follow His plan. He will influence the hearts of those around you to support His plan when you are courageous enough to obey Him with all your heart, soul, and mind.
Practical Application
When you feel unsure about your direction, or fear tries to creep on you about your current assignment, say aloud: “God is moving the hearts of others on my behalf.” Then, step out courageously to do whatever God has laid upon your heart.