The work of rebuilding of the temple in Jerusalem has stopped, and the Israelites seem to simply continue with their lives in a ho-hum kind of way. Then Haggai and Zechariah, both prophets, are sent to prophesy over the people. The detail of the prophecy of Haggai can be found in the Old Testament book which bears his name at 1:2-10. You might want to pause and read that now. His words clearly describe that the Israelites have decided that it simply isn’t the right time for the temple to be rebuilt. That they occupy comfortable homes, presumably refurbished and made good since they returned to their homelands, whilst the house of God remained incomplete. He continues that God with withhold his blessing of provision from them for this reason.

This is sufficient for Zerubbabel and Jeshua to recommence work. The then governor of the region writes to king Darius, advising of the resumed work and names the two men in charge. But Zerubbabel and Jeshua know that their work cannot be stopped until the letter has been sent and a reply received, hence the work continues.

Isn’t it great to be able to see and read the hand of God working for the good of His people. How often though in our world and lives today do we see the word of God cast aside or ignored to allow our own ideals and preferred ways of live to rise to the fore? Our sinfulness today is not really that different from the sins of the Old Testament times. The circumstances maybe different but it is still the rejection or chosen disregard of how God says we should live our lives. It is at this point we should remember to consider the difference the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ makes to our lives today. It is on Him that we should build our lives and character as our living temples. Thank God for Jesus!

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Question:

Is there anything you once believed God was calling you to, you started but then hit a block and so didn’t pursue it further, believing it was not God’s will after all?  Pray into that and ask Him again if indeed He does want you to persevere with that calling after all.

Prayer:

Dear Lord Jesus we are so grateful to you for all that you show us, give us and cause us to do. In Your name would you please speak to my spirit now, that I might know your will in my life and be obedient to it. Amen.