Today we are reading 2 Chronicles 36. In this chapter we read about the decline of Judah and Cyrus’ decree to allow the exiles to return to rebuild the Temple. “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, so that he made a proclamation throughout all his kingdom and also put it in writing: “Thus says Cyrus king of Persia, ‘The Lord, the God of heaven, has given me all the kingdoms of the earth, and he has charged me to build him a house at Jerusalem, which is in Judah. Whoever is among you of all his people, may the Lord his God be with him. Let him go up.'”” 2 Chronicles 36:22-23 ESV After the people turned away from God, waves of invasions came as punishment for their idolatry. Egypt, Babylon and the Chaldeans devastated the land. Finally, Cyrus from Persia released God’s people to go and rebuild the Temple. Throughout this time, the faithful remnant of God’s people clung to hope provided by God’s word. As we endure the troubles of our world, we also must cling to God’s word that gives us hope. Which Scriptures give you comfort? Write a list of those verses and with each, describe why you find it comforting. May God fill you with joy and hope today. Pastor Tim
