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Day 5 – Decree Ezra 6 A decree is an unshakeable law. The only way a decree can change is to make a new decree or law. Many of the laws we have in our constitution have amendments causing changes to the original laws. God’s decrees are unshakeable and unchangeable. No amendments were ever needed to make changes to them. Darius, king of Persia looked for the decree Cyrus issued regarding building the temple of God in Jerusalem, and found it. Upon finding the decree, he added to the decree, stating that anyone who came against the Jews in building the temple would have their homes destroyed and be hung on the timber from their homes. Upon hearing the decree from Darius, those who opposed the building of the temple of God, hurried to comply with the decree Darius issued and the Jews were able to finish the temple and celebrate Passover in a timely manner. When Jesus fulfilled the law, He issued a new command – to love one another. Now love isn’t a new command, but it comes with it new thoughts and objectives. In the past, God’s people only loved each other. They did not love their enemies. However, Jesus told His disciples they were to love their enemies and do good to those who persecuted them. As Christians, we too are to love everyone and do good to those who intend harm against us. Israel’s enemies helped them complete the temple by providing whatever they needed – the livestock necessary for their sacrifices. When we follow the new commands Jesus gave us, to love everyone, including our enemies, even they will be unable to come against us, but in many instances will help us achieve our objectives. Let’s pray: Father, help me love everyone, even those who oppose me in everything I do and in so doing obey the decrees You gave Your people. In Jesus’ name, I pray, amen. Copyright © 22 January 2016 by Valerie Jean Routhieaux Image courtesy of Pixabay