Looking a few posts back, we see that Nehemiah responded to God’s call to organize and oversee the rebuilding of the temple. The rebuilding started but after 15 years, they still had not completed it. Because everyday life happened (discouragement by various hardships), they lost their purpose and their priorities. The rebuilding came to a halt. This is where Haggai comes in, and plainly tells them to get their priorities straight. He spoke, calling them back to God’s values…
“Why are you living in luxurious houses while my house lies in ruins?” Haggai 1: 4
God was clear that having a place to worship and sacrifice was crucial to their relationship with Him. But the people seemed to be more concerned with their own needs, instead of what God wanted. As a result of their selfishness, they suffered. Let’s stop right here and think about how this can also apply to us. What has God told us to do in His Word? It’s very easy to make other things more important than doing God’s work. We need to set our hearts on what is right and do it. We need to put our priorities in accordance with God’s will. Put all else aside and obey Him.
“This is what the Lord of Heavens Armies says: Look at what’s happening to you! Now go up into the hills, bring down timber, and rebuild my house. Then I will take pleasure in it and be honored, says the Lord” Haggai 1: 7-8
We find challenges and promise in the book of Haggai. Because we were bought with the price; the very high price of Christ’s life, we’re reminded of God’s claim on our lives and our priorities.
Haggai encouraged the people as they worked, always reminding them they were in the divine midst of God’s Spirit. I feel God’s call in my life to encourage you… When my trials get me down, I want to hear from someone who has gone through the fire or is now going through the fire. Friends, I’ve been in the fire! And I’m still being refined! But you know what? If we respond to our hardships the right way, we can say what Job said… “Tried in the fire, but I’m coming out as gold!” Be encouraged, and keep persevering!
P.S. For the past week or so, blogging has taken a back seat to our Photo Gallery. I just want to take this time to give glory to God, and say how great He is! Now more than ever, I appreciate the beauty of creation! The way He paints the sky, and gives us the breathtaking colors of fall is nothing less of magnificent! If you have a chance, checkout Photos by Michael ~ Design by Lori, and you’ll see what I am talking about! A framed photo would look great in your home!
