The Promise

Constant Struggle With Opposing Elements

Only the judgment will reveal how much anguish of soul this necessary severity cost the faithful worker for God. Advancement came only by fasting, humiliation, and prayer. 2TC 333.5

Many who had married idol worshipers chose to go with them into exile and join the Samaritans. Some who had occupied high positions in the work of God went over fully to their side. The Samaritans promised to adopt the Jewish faith more completely, and the apostates, determined to outdo their former brethren, constructed a temple on Mount Gerizim as a rival to the house of God at Jerusalem. Their religion continued to be a mixture of Judaism and heathenism, and their claim to be the people of God was the source of strife between the two nations from generation to generation. 2TC 333.6

In the work of reform today, there is need of people like Ezra and Nehemiah who will not excuse sin, not remain silent when others do wrong, nor cover evil with a false kindness. Severity to a few may prove mercy to many. They will remember also that the one who rebukes evil should always reveal the spirit of Christ. 2TC 334.1

Ezra and Nehemiah confessed their sins and the sins of their people as if they themselves were the offenders. Patiently they worked and suffered. What made their work most difficult was the secret opposition of pretended friends who gave their influence to the service of evil. These traitors furnished the Lord’s enemies with material to use in their warfare on His people. Their rebellious wills were always at war with God’s requirements. 2TC 334.2

Nehemiah’s success shows what prayer, faith, and wise action will accomplish. Nehemiah was not a priest; he was not a prophet; he was a reformer. It was his aim to set his people right with God. As he came into contact with evil and opposition to right he took a stand so firmly that the people could not help but recognize his loyalty, his patriotism, and his deep love for God. Seeing this, they were willing to follow where he led. 2TC 334.3

An important part of true religion is being diligent in whatever God-appointed duty we may have. Decisive action at the right time will gain glorious triumphs, while delay and neglect result in failure and dishonor to God. If the leaders show no zeal, if they are indifferent, the church will be lazy and pleasure-loving; but if they are filled with a holy resolve to serve God and Him alone, the people will be united, hopeful, eager. The pages of God’s Word that describe the hatred, falsehood, and treachery of Sanballat and Tobiah also describe the devotion and self-sacrifice of Ezra and Nehemiah. We are left free to copy either, as we choose. 2TC 334.4