This post is Day 17 in a series of studies about “Haggai”. I strongly suggest you begin with the introduction to this study, please click here to read it.

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Haggai – Day 17

In my family all of us knew that God was moving us to France in 1983. And then again 30 years later, after our children had all grown and left home, my husband and I had several words from the Lord that we were to move to the west coast.

Haggai 2:4

But now be strong, Zerubbabel, declares the Lord. Be strong, Joshua son of Jozadak, the high priest. Be strong, all you people of the land, declares the Lord, and work. For I am with you, declares the Lord Almighty.

The Thought

These people had a history of being strong. They had suffered much as a people group, and seemed to always be destined to go from problem to problem. Often their sufferings were there own fault, but not always.

In Egypt, they were definitely under the oppression of the authorities led by Pharaoh. But during their time in the desert, they often suffered because of their complaining, or resistance to moving on.

At one point they were beginning to feel settled and God spoke about it saying You have stayed long enough on this mountain. Break camp and advance. (Deuteronomy 1:6-7).

So it is with each one of Jesus’ followers today. In a spiritual sense and sometimes in a practical way too. In my own family life all of us knew that God was moving us to France in 1983. And then again over 30 years later, after our children had all grown and left home, my husband and I had several words from the Lord that we were to move to the west coast. That had never been our intention. But here we are, blessed and happy!

Action

Read some of the Exodus story today. Be reassured that God’s plan was for His people to escape the slavery.

Think about your own life story and bless the Lord for the moments you can see His hand in it. Perhaps in a house move, or through a job or a relationship.

Remind yourself too of the times certain Bible verses have “shouted” at you, and lessons you have had to learn; sometimes painful ones!

Spend some time thanking God for His hand on your life up to today, be encouraged that He won’t let you go.

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