God’s Timing After the Standstill

by Pua Palakiko on September 26, 2026

SCRIPTURE:

"Thus the work on the house of God in Jerusalem came to a standstill until the second year of the reign of Darius king of Persia"

Ezra 4:24 

 

OBSERVATION:

There was opposition in the rebuilding of the temple. Coming from a charge up moment in Ezra 3. There was mixed emotions but the people were excited to rebuild. However, there were obstacles in the way before they could start. They didn’t want the Jews to rebuild because it threatened their political control, financial gain, religious influence, and ultimately, the enemy sought to prevent God’s presence from being re-established in Jerusalem.

APPLICATION:

As I was reading this, I learn the stand-still of this construction was 16 years. Maybe you’ve had seasons where you started strong in faith, prayer, or vision, only to hit resistance that caused you to stop. Like Israel, I can grow tired when doors close, people oppose, or the enemy whispers that it’s not worth it. The wait can feel daunting, heavy, and hopeless.
I woke up with anxiety around 3am, unable to go sleep because I’m crippled by insecurities or pressure. As I read this, the lord reminded me, “you will not let another year go by to stand-still of what I’m trying to build in you!”
I can’t let discouragement or fear bury my calling. Even if the “temple project” has been dormant for years, God can breathe new courage in me now. The daunting wait is also not wasted time becomes the stage for God’s power to be revealed in His timing. I’m reminded to Hold on, because His Spirit is always ready to restart what seems impossible.

PRAYER:

Lord, Forgive me for the times I’ve stopped building what You’ve called me to because of fear or opposition. Lord, help me to be confident in all you called me to do. Give me bravery like David, when I feel like I’m in the land of giants. Give me courage like Joshua, when leading seems impossible. Give obedience like Mary, when the calling is overwhelming. Give me resilience like Paul the apostle when the work is oppose. Holy Spirit empower me. Amen 

About the Author

Pua Palakiko

Pastor Pua-kiele Palakiko has been with New Hope Oahu since 2007. In the summer of 2008 during a youth camp, God called her  into Full Time Ministry and Pua began serving as a Youth Leader in the Youth Ministry. She is now on staff as the Equipping Pastor, overseeing leaders of our  Youth + Young Adults Ministries and our Children’s Ark Ministry. She oversees our Emerge Internship and has the honor to train, build and equip future church leaders. She is also a gifted speaker and worship leader.


Pua has a Bachelor’s Degree in Christian Ministries and a Master’s Degree in Formational Leadership. She is humbled and honored to have the privilege to see God's people “Discover, Develop and be Deployed in their God giving gifts.”

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