This post is Day 15 in a series of studies about “Work/Works”. I strongly suggest you begin with the introduction to this study, please click here to read it.

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Work/Works – Day 15

This verse speaks of unity. Everyone, not just the leaders, but the whole remnant of the people was encouraged by the Lord to do what He wanted them to do! We must forgive and live in that place of constant forgiveness and determination to complete any task for the Lord.

Haggai 1:14

So the Lord stirred up the spirit of Zerubbabel son of Shealtiel, governor of Judah, and the spirit of Joshua son of Jozadak, the high priest, and the spirit of the whole remnant of the people. They came and began to work on the house of the Lord Almighty, their God,

The Thought

This verse speaks of unity. Everyone, not just the leaders, but the whole remnant of the people was encouraged by the Lord to do what He wanted them to do! They had begun to settle in their promised land around 536 BC. Haggai was a prophet who came on the scene soon after that, the same time as Zechariah.

The children of Israel, once settled had begun with enthusiasm the re-building of the Temple in Jerusalem. But they had abandoned their project because of criticism and mockery from those who opposed them. How sad!

There are some challenging verses near the beginning of Haggai. The Lord says clearly:- Give careful thought to your ways, … You expected much, but it turned out to be little. Why? Because of My house which remains a ruin while each of you is busy with your own house (Haggai 1:7-9).

How often are you tempted to abandon some task because of criticism or mockery?

That can come from our own families, people we expect support from, but who do not understand the tasks the Lord gives His people. We must forgive and live in that place of constant forgiveness and determination to complete any task the Lord has for us.

Action

Pray for boldness today to do what you feel the Lord is asking you to do. Ask His help in coping with any criticism or mockery.

Be challenged as you read Haggai 1 today to think about your own priorities and ask God if there is anything specific He would like you to work on.

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