Responding to the Enemy | Ezra 5:11-17 | July 13, 2025

Responding to the Enemy

Ezra 5:11-17 

What's happening? 

- God's people building the temple in obedience to God's Word 

- The enemies question & threaten with a letter back to the king.  

- God's people faithfully keep their focus on God's Work. 

- God provides and finishes the work.  

So how do we respond when the Enemy attacks?   

1. We must submit to the Lord. (vs. 11)  

- Who's in charge of your life? Remember your baptism.  

- James 4:7 

2. Keep chasing after Jesus. (vs. 11)  

- Deepening your relationship with Jesus is the goal! Obey the Lord.  

- John 14:21 

3. Be honest about your sin problem. (vs. 12)     

- Has living for yourself ever brought you joy? Stay in a constant state of repentance.  

- Psalm 103:11-17 

4. Give thanks for your salvation in Jesus Christ.  (vs. 13 - 17)

- Thanksgiving reminds of God's gift of forgiveness. Remind yourself of the Gospel!   

- Ephesians 1:3 & 7

5. Walk in the confidence of God's faithfulness (vs. 17) 

- Has God ever been stopped in what He wants to do? Memorize scripture that reminds you of God's faithfulness.  

- Philippians 1:6