Now in the first year of Cyrus king of Persia, that the word of the LORD by the mouth of Jeremiah might be fulfilled, the LORD stirred up the spirit of Cyrus king of Persia, that he made a proclamation throughout all his kingdom, and put it also in writing, saying, Thus saith Cyrus king of Persia, The LORD God of heaven hath given me all the kingdoms of the earth; and he hath charged me to build him an house at Jerusalem, which is in Judah.
Ezra 1:1-2
Cyrus II was born into the ruling family of the Persian empire and was named for his grandfather. When he ascended to the throne, Cyrus quickly proved himself both an effective civilian administrator and a brilliant military tactician. His victories greatly expanded the scope of the Persian empire, which under his rule would become the largest the world had ever seen to that point in history. It is easy to understand why he came to be known as Cyrus the Great, and why he is still remembered to this day. His life story is also a wonderful reminder of the sovereign power of God. Cyrus may have been the most powerful ruler in the world, but when God determined that His people would return to Jerusalem, even Cyrus became an instrument for accomplishing His purpose.
No earthly ruler or present situation is beyond the authority of God. Cyrus commanded a vast empire, yet God was able to direct his decisions to accomplish His own purposes. “All nations before him are as nothing; and they are counted to him less than nothing, and vanity” (Isaiah 40:17). This truth serves as both a warning against allowing pride to take root in our hearts and as a shield against fear when we face opposition. The most powerful forces the world can bring against us pose no threat or challenge to the God who holds us safely in His almighty hands.
