We find God had called the people to return from exile to rebuild the temple. He even had the king of the Medes and Persians declare it and help fund it.
Haggai 1:2
This is what the Lord Almighty says: “These people say, ‘The time has not yet come for the Lord’s house to be built.’ ”
But what did the people do upon their return? What was their priority?
Haggai 1:4
4 “Is it a time for you yourselves to be living in your paneled houses, while this house remains a ruin?”
In fact, God had withheld His blessings from them because they put their comfort over His call to rebuild the temple.
God challenges them to consider their priorities and Who it is that provides for them.
Haggai 1:7
This is what the Lord Almighty says: “Give careful thought to your ways.
I love the response of the people.
Haggai 1:12
the people obeyed the voice of the Lord their God and the message of the prophet Haggai because the Lord their God had sent him. And the people feared the Lord.
We see how God responds to those who fear Him, obey Him and put Him first.
Haggai 1:13-14
Then Haggai, the Lord’s messenger, gave this message of the Lord to the people: “I am with you,” declares the Lord. 14 So the Lord stirred up the spirit of…
I love it! God rebukes the people; they take ownership and respond in obedience. God brings His blessing, His favour, His Spirit, and His promise that He is with them.
I am reminded of Matthew 6:33
Matthew 6:33
But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.
May we put God first. Obey what He has asked of us.
Knowing He desires to take care of us and promises to be with us.
