Haggai is one of the shorter books of the minor prophets, but it is not lacking in valuable lessons and practical application. This short book delivers a powerful punch and brings a stern reminder to be about the work of the Lord. The Lord wanted the people to rekindle their zeal and priorities on finishing the temple. By the mouth of Haggai, the Lord’s message was delivered, “Consider your ways” (Hag. 1:5 NKJV).
The prophecy of Haggai comes 15 years after Judah has been released from captivity (520 B.C.). Upon their arrival at Jerusalem, the people were zealous and desirous of rebuilding the temple, but it did not take long for them to become distracted and slothful. The people had determined that it was not a good time to finish the temple (Hag. 1:2). Yet the Lord questioned their priorities. “Is it time for you yourselves to dwell in your paneled houses, and this temple to lie in ruins” (Hag. 1:4). This God-given message challenged the people to consider their attitude of negligence and laziness. Difficult duties should be faced courageously and without delay.
Haggai sheds light on many of the problems they faced daily, and the problems were directly linked to their misplaced focus. Their lives and their work had been unsatisfactory. Therefore, their harvest had been poor; they did not have enough to eat or drink, their clothing did not keep them warm, and their wages went for nothing. The situation was related to putting money into a bag with holes (Hag. 1:6). Their suffering was a result of their unfaithfulness (Hag. 1:10-11), yet God provided the solution for their problems (Hag. 1:8-9). They needed to build the temple so that God would be pleased and glorified. This was no time for laziness or apathy; it was a time for self-reflection and repentance.
As the church, we are the people of God, and we have a great responsibility before us. Just as the temple was the place for the presence of the Lord, so the church is the place for the Lord’s presence today. Therefore, the work of the church cannot be put off so that we can pursue our material wealth and prosperity. If material considerations crowd out our worship and servitude to the Lord, our wealth costs us too much. The word of the Lord by the mouth of Haggai was, “Consider your ways.” Biblical repentance comes because of a change of attitude and perspective, that is fueled by a desire for holiness.
By: Jerrod Hammond