Ezra 5:1-2 Then the prophets, Haggai the prophet, and Zerubbabel the son of Iddo, prophesied unto the Jews that were in Judah and Jerusalem in the name of the God of Israel, even unto them. Then rose up Zerubbabel the son of Shealtiel, and Jeshua, the son of Jozadak, and began to build the house of God which is at Jerusalem: and with them were the prophets of God helping them.
The work of resettling the city and rebuilding the temple was a daunting task, especially with the Enemy opposing them. But for strength and encouragement the Lord raised up two prophets, Haggai and Zechariah, to stir the people up to begin and to finish the rebuilding effort. These prophets were used by the Lord to bring His Word to bear on those who were to do the work of the Lord.
The response of Zerubbabel and Jeshua to God’s prophetic Word was to rise up and begin to build. The encouraging word from God’s Word was effective to stir up the leaders with resolve and courage and strength to do God’s will and finish His work.
The prophetic word of Law and Gospel is powerful in our lives. We have been “saved through faith…created in Christ Jesus for good works [Ephesians 2:8-10].” And Philippians 2:13 promises: “It is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his pleasure.” The Word and the Spirit gives us the desire and the ability to rise up and build. Trust the words of the prophets to stir us up to good works.