Be strong and brave! Saul your king is dead, and the people of Judah have anointed me as their king."

This is the list of David's famous soldiers. Together with the rest of the people of Israel, they helped him become king, as the LORD had promised, and they kept his kingdom strong.

Be strong and courageous! Let's fight hard for our people and for the cities of our God. And may the LORD's will be done."

The king strengthened the city's defenses by repairing the wall, building towers on it, and building an outer wall. In addition, he repaired the defenses built on the land that was filled in on the east side of the old part of Jerusalem. He also had a large number of spears and shields made.

For seven days they joyfully celebrated the Festival of Unleavened Bread. They were full of joy because the LORD had made the emperor of Assyria favorable to them, so that he supported them in their work of rebuilding the Temple of the God of Israel.

Then Haggai gave the LORD's message to the people: "I will be with you---that is my promise."

The LORD inspired everyone to work on the Temple: Zerubbabel, the governor of Judah; Joshua, the High Priest, and all the people who had returned from the exile. They began working on the Temple of the LORD Almighty, their God,

Finally, build up your strength in union with the Lord and by means of his mighty power.

because God is always at work in you to make you willing and able to obey his own purpose.