November 20

In Ezra 3–4, the people of Israel begin rebuilding the temple after years of exile. Their first act is not to build walls for protection, but an altar for worship. They gather as one to offer sacrifices and to praise God, singing, He is good; His love toward Israel endures forever. Even though the foundation is barely laid, their worship rises like a declaration of faith. Yet, as soon as progress begins, opposition comes. Enemies discourage them, spreading fear and false accusations to stop the work. For a time, the rebuilding halts—but God’s purpose does not.

Psalm 92 reminds us why worship must always come first. It is good to praise the Lord, to proclaim His love in the morning and His faithfulness at night. This psalm celebrates that the righteous flourish like palm trees, planted in the house of the Lord. Those who stay rooted in worship, even through difficulty, will bear fruit and stand firm. Worship centers us in the truth of who God is when circumstances try to shake us.

In 1 John 1, we are reminded that our fellowship with God begins in the light. God is light; in Him there is no darkness at all. When we walk in the light of His presence—confessing our sins, living in truth, and staying in communion with Him—our joy becomes complete. The same God who called His people to rebuild the temple now calls us to rebuild our hearts through the light of His truth and the power of His forgiveness.

Together, these passages show that worship and faithfulness are not dependent on ease. True worship happens when we choose to trust and praise God even in opposition. When we walk in His light and remain steadfast, God’s presence becomes our foundation and His joy our strength.

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