Daily Bible Reading, November 2022: “God’s Renewing Word of Thankfulness and Praise.”Sample

November 3

Introduction

Problems caused by neighboring people halted the rebuilding of the Temple from 535 to 520 B.C. The prophets Haggai and Zechariah persuade the people to start again, but authority to begin rebuilding is challenged. The rebuilding of the Temple took place during the reign of Emperor Darius of Persia (522 - 486 B.C.).

Scripture Reading

Ezra 4:24—5:17

Today’s Key Verse: Ezra 5:11

“[The Jewish leaders] answered, ‘We are servants of the God of heaven and earth, and we are rebuilding the Temple which was originally built and equipped many years ago by a powerful king of Israel.’”

Reflect

In today’s reading, who challenged the work of rebuilding the Temple? What did they do? In the report that was sent to Emperor Darius, what had the leaders of the people said when questioned about who had given them authority to rebuild and equip the Temple (verses 11-16)? How did the initiators of the challenge conclude their report (verse 17)?

Pray

Mighty God of heaven and earth, I am your servant and seek to follow your teachings day by day. May my words and actions be pleasing in your sight. In your holy name, I pray. Amen.

Tomorrow’s Reading

Ezra 6:1-12: Emperor Cyrus’s order is rediscovered.