THIS is the concluding portion of the article Handling Opposition with a Godly Response. It would do well for all of us to read the three parts over and over again until its lessons are ingrained in our hearts and our actions and reactions a testimony to the peace in our hearts.
3. We see a skillful display of clear communication of facts over baseless presumptions and heresies vv. 6-17
A godly display of diligent and disciplined knowledge of what transpired as supplied by credible record; it is wisdom to know events accurately and know the meaning of history passionately. They knew God and they knew their people.
The Americans suffered a shameful defeat in Vietnam, not because of inferior weaponry but because they did not take time to get know how their enemies felt. Their bombs did not shatter the determination of the opponent! Take time to study culture...knowing how to relate will defuse a lot of tensions. Disciplined and diligent keeping of documentation is not only godly but a practical response to those who oppose (verses 11-16). Keep document of events and agreements. Even among the best of friends and kin, it’s wise to have your transactions in writing! Appealing instead of demanding is a time-tested godly response that has won the hearts of those who are in authority (verse 17). Again, knowing your place will define how you react! Having the patience to wait for whatever the outcome is better than rushing to prove your point. Accurate documentation coupled with a humble attitude does wonders...of course, all because GOD is at work.
4. We see God's hand over the hearts of the Powerful granting commendations and favours sans lobbying for political perks
Ezra 6:1-12 records the outcome of the search for documents that proved that the rebuilding of the temple was legit and not seditious, as alleged by the critics. King Darius favoured the people of God. Here's the lesson: The journey of obedience is a long journey, each step making us trust God more than anything and anyone else. When King Darius granted favours to GOD's people, our faith should see GOD, not Darius! Here we see 3 things:
1) Vulnerability leads to dependence on God.
2) Vindication of God now defends the vulnerable.
3) Victory is when God's plan is sought and God's purpose is fulfilled through our lives.
Oppositions are not obstacles at all...they open the doors so that we may learn the skill of responding in a godly way. Contrary to the popular saying “GOD helps those who help themselves” is the truth GOD HELPS THE HELPLESS WHO CRY FOR HELP! Responding in a godly manner takes more than skills—it requires desperate dependence on GOD, diligently and delightfully availing of His grace. Handling oppositions with a Godly response is all about God's Omnipotence flowing through ordinary lives as a testimony of grace that many more might find GOD. Pause and see how God's grave saves us each day? Only the proud will resist such grace.
Thanks for reading, I still write straight from my heart!