Ezra 4 & 5 tell of opposition to the rebuilding of the Temple from surrounding nations. They write to the Persian king, Darius, challenging whether or not the Jews had been given permission to rebuild their Temple. Unfortunately for the Temple’s opponents, instead of stopping the construction project, the king orders it to continue and orders the opponents to help pay for it. This chapter makes a long story short, but the Temple is completed.
Apparently God had these kings keep careful records just so his opponents could be defeated. It is amazing how seemingly unrelated things can be brought together to accomplish what God wants to do. Stories like these can still be heard today.