John Trapp on Ezra 8:36

Verſe 36. And they furthered the people] Heb. They gave them a lift, lent them an helping hand: not out of love to the work, but for fear of the King, and in purſuance of his commands and commiſſions. Thus the Devil and his impes ſometimes do Gods will, though with an ill will, Pſal. 119.91. They continue this day according to thine Ordinances: for all are thy ſervants. How much better were it to work from a right principle, not by conſtraint, but willingly; not for fear of wrath, but of a ready mind,1 Pet. 51 to love to be Gods ſervants taking hold of his Covenant, Iſai. 56.6. and ſaying to him, as the people did to Joſhua, Chap. 1.16. or as the Rulers and Elders to Jehu, 2 Kings 10.5. We are thy ſervants, and will do all that thou ſhalt bid us?