As I read Ezra 5:5 in the Amplified Bible, seven words come together, stand at attention, then form themselves into a weapon which will serve us well at all times.
"BUT GOD -- so the enemy could not"
When this weapon has its rightful place in our lives, we do not have to experience defeat. In times of pain, loneliness, undeserved hurt, etc.; an insidious, syruppy voice offers us the illusion of comfort in self-pity.
BUT GOD -- shows us where that lie will lead and that these painful things are the very things He will use to help conform us to the image of His dear Son -- so the enemy could not.
In times of disappointment with our spiritual progress, or misunderstanding by fellow-believers of our desire to pursue holy living in all its fullness, a sad, weary, commiserating voice attempts to persuade us that we are stretching too far, expecting too much, that we should slacken off and settle for mediocre Christianity.
BUT GOD -- grips our hearts with the nail-pierced hand of the Saviour and we know we love Him too much to ever turn back -- so the enemy could not. In times of debilitating illness, extreme limitations or severe material need, the snarl of the roaring lion insinuates that God doesn't care and that the billows will certainly overcome us.
BUT GOD -- makes His eternal promises intensely alive and intimately personal -- so the enemy could not. There is no situation where this weapon will not console us, instruct us, undergird us, defend us, protect us and defeat the enemy.
BUT GOD -- always comes first; He is the focus. The enemy is the afterthought, his significance being in his defeat and his helplessness against this weapon.
Take it with you. Make it yours.
BUT GOD -- so the enemy could not, could not ! ! !
With love and prayers,