Zechariah was a prophet who encouraged God's people to finish rebuilding the temple. He also encouraged people to rebuild their relationship with God and Worship Him. He pointed people towards God's promises. It is in Him we can have true rest and security.

In Ezra, God's remnant is instructed to recover from their exile with....work. This work would be costly, demanding, and long; but this work actually aimed to bring rest. This rest would be found ultimately in encountering God. At times, we may be exhausted, but Ezra's story can remind us to dwell and rest in a relationship with God.

Life circumstances can be hard at times. It is in those hard times that we need to remember God's promises. God's promises remind us to trust Him. Ahaz was reminded by the prophet Isaiah of these promises. God is present!