MONDAY June 27, 2022

God Is Still at Work

Acts 2:46-47

In the book of Acts, God was moving by His Spirit and adding to the church––people were getting saved! At this particular time, here at Calvary Chapel Golden Springs, God is still moving. I am very excited to see what He is doing in the church among the congregation––people are still being saved. The Holy Spirit causes the churches to be filled because He convicts people, and they come to salvation.

What if ten years later, you came to visit our church, and the building was gone! Instead, there stood apartment buildings. Shocked, people would ask, “I used to go to that church, what happened?” God was no longer moving there. In any church, when people lose their first love for God, they no longer hunger and thirst for God’s Word, and they lack the desire to worship Him; then Holy Spirit will move somewhere else.

Listen, we see everything that is happening in the government, in the stock market, the gas prices, the lack of certain food products, and the growing inflation in the world today. People are in denial; they want to go back to the times of prosperity––to buy houses and cars but, in the end, they lose all of their investments. Why? They were not sensitive to what is taking place around them. We may even be heading into a recession!

Ask God for mercy, and from this day forward, get up and worship God. Be in His Word in the morning, afternoon and evening. God is faithful to warn you to stay clear of trouble––stay out of debt––stay sound in doctrine, and stay close to the heart of God. He will lead you and guide you through these difficult times.

Give God his glory by resting in Him, by trusting Him fully, by waiting patiently for Him. This patience honors Him greatly; it leaves Him, as God on the throne, to do his work; it yields self wholly into His hands.
It lets God be God.
~Andrew Murray~

SUNDAY June 26, 2022

From this Day Forward

Haggai 2:15-17

God had a great work to be done among His people, but they needed to have clean hands and a clean heart. They could not worship Him by lifting up their hands to Him when they were in sin. God is holy, and their hearts needed to be right before Him. God told His people, “You have refused to repent for such a long time.” How could they please God and worship Him without repentance? It just does not work that way.

As a result of years of disobedience, the Jews suffered. God took away any financial gain, and mildew and hail destroyed the produce in the land. Everything was decreasing––not increasing. In the book of Deuteronomy, God’s people were warned about the terrible consequences they would face because of their disobedience:

“You shall carry much seed out to the field but gather little in, for the locust shall consume it.  You shall plant vineyards and tend them, but you shall neither drink of the wine nor gather the grapes; for the worms shall eat them. You shall have olive trees throughout all your territory, but you shall not anoint yourself with the oil; for your olives shall drop off” (Deuteronomy 28:38-40).

It was only when they repented that God would bless them. In His mercy, He began a new day––from this day forward, blessing came. What happens when a person refuses to repent of sin? They suffer terrible consequences. Yet the very moment they make things right with God, from that day forward, He can begin to bless them in every way.

God will never plant the seed of his life upon the soil of a hard, unbroken spirit. He will only plant that seed where the conviction of his spirit has brought brokenness, where the soil has been watered with the tears of repentance as well as the tears of joy.
~Alan Redpath~

 SATURDAY June 25, 2022

God’s Glory

Haggai 2:3

Before moving forward in Haggai 2, I would like us to take another look at verse 3. Even though 50,000 Jews returned to Jerusalem, they had no heart to rebuild the Temple or to see God’s glory. God knew the older Jews had seen the beauty of the Temple before its destruction. They had witnessed the glory of God. They wept when they saw it lie in ruins. Visibly it was not the same––there was no longer any glory.

God stirred up the leaders’ and peoples’ hearts to rebuild the Temple so they would know His glory. Consider this prophecy given by Haggai in reference to the Temple in the Kingdom Age. It will surpass all others built: “ ‘The glory of this latter temple shall be greater than the former, ... And in this place I will give peace,’ says the Lord of hosts’ ” (Haggai 2:9).

During the Jesus Movement, I remember parking by the 405 Freeway and seeing the big tent located on the open bean fields. As soon as got out of the car and heard the worship, I felt the presence of God, and I continued to feel His presence while walking to the house of the Lord. The experience was not emotionalism. God’s glory and power were felt all over the country. It was a genuine revival––a real touch from God in the hearts of the people who began to share their faith with others.

Have you witnessed the glory of God in what He has accomplished in your life? In Revelations 4:11, we are all reminded of the importance of giving God the glory: “You are worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honor and power; for you created all things, and by your will they exist and were created.” When was the last time you stopped to give God all the glory and honor?

We do not segment our lives, giving some time to God, some to our business or schooling, while keeping parts to ourselves. The idea is to live all of our lives in the presence of God, under the authority of God, and for the honor and glory of God. That is what the Christian life is all about.
~R.C. Sproul~

FRIDAY June 24, 2022

Come Let Us Reason

Haggai 2:12-14

Haggai continued on with his message that was given to Him by the Lord. He spoke of what was clean and unclean. The Jews were taught to adhere to many Ceremonial Laws. If a high priest or someone touched a dead body, they were considered to be unclean:

He who is the high priest among his brethren . . . shall he go near any dead body, nor defile himself for his father or his mother...’ ” (Leviticus 21:10-12).

“ ‘He who touches the dead body of anyone shall be unclean seven days. He shall purify himself with the water on the third day and on the seventh day; then he will be clean. But if he does not purify himself on the third day and on the seventh day, he will not be clean’ ” (Numbers 19:11-12).

Therefore, the priests knew exactly what the prophet’s question given to them was in reference to, and, of course, there was only one obvious answer. A person who touched a dead body was defiled––unclean. God used this common knowledge of the Law to reveal to the priests how He viewed the Jewish people and the nation of Israel before Him. Lifting up their hands in worship, the work of their hands, and their offerings were summed up in one word––unclean. God saw their sinfulness.

Like the people of Israel, as believers we are no longer ignorant. We do not live by the Law, but we do have knowledge of the Word of God and a good understanding of our sinfulness. God speaks to us intelligently; He reasons with us. If you are in sin, be honest and real with God. Deal with the issue of your sin––repent and ask Him for His forgiveness.

“Come now, and let us reason together,” says the Lord,?“though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red like crimson, they shall be as wool.”
~Isaiah 1:18~

THURSDAY June 23, 2022

True Repentance

Haggai 2:10-12

God desired to bless His people, but for the longest time, the Jews failed to confess their sin; they neglected to repent. King Cyrus had given them a generous amount of money and provisions to rebuild the Temple in Jerusalem, but they spent all the money on themselves (Ezra 1:1-6).

Once again, God spoke to the prophet Haggai, who faithfully gave His message to the people. God dealt with the issue of the Law of God––as they had forgotten the priority of His Word. He asked the religious leaders, the priests, a question: “If one carries holy meat in the fold of his garment, and with the edge he touches bread or stew, wine or oil, or any food, will it become holy?” ’ ” Of course the answer was, “No.” The point God was trying to make was that the people offered offerings that were unclean. Their worship and the works of their hands were unacceptable––unholy––in HIs sight.

With so much work to be done––the restoration of the walls of Jerusalem, the beautiful gates, and the Holies of Holies––where was the people’s obedience? God requires obedience, not sacrifice. Therefore, any offerings and sacrifices the people gave were unclean before a holy God. What was necessary was true repentance.

God’s Word convicts and causes you to take an examination of your life. Understand, you can give to the Lord and attend church, but what about your life? Are you still living a life of sin? God requires obedience. He desire true repentance. Are you willing to repent and submit yourself to His will? Stop the pretense. Then He can bless your life.

Legalism is looking to something besides Jesus Christ in order to be acceptable and clean before God.
~Timothy Keller~

WEDNESDAY June 22, 2022

God Owns Earthly Treasures

Haggai 2:8-9

God’s people did not have a heart to build the Temple or to see the glory of God return. They were too busy with their own lives. His people needed a real touch from the Lord––a revival to come. In building the Temple, God would be exalted among the nations. Psalm 96:3 tells us: Declare His glory among the nations, His wonders among all peoples. The Temple was a holy place where His presence dwelt. It was an incredible sight for everyone to behold. Imagine, as His chosen people went into the Temple, they could feel the holy presence of the Lord. Did they not miss His presence? It seems, making money––silver and gold––took precedence.

People need to spiritually wake up; so many of them are too concerned with their lives––their bank accounts, houses and cars. They need a revival. They have failed to daily seek the heart of God. If they neglect worship and the Word in God’s house, how will they hear His voice? They will miss being in tune with His plans. Those who become comfortable with their wealth often change their priorities––they forget God; but in these difficult days, we need the comfort of His presence.

I believe there are men and women who are so possessive of their gold and silver, they forget that everything belongs to God. A person may have an exorbitant amount of money, hold stocks and bonds, and feel secure in the financial kingdom they have built, but realistically, they will not be able to keep it. Why? They cannot keep a tight hold on earthly treasures. One day, when they die, everyone else will be ready and waiting to benefit from their death. Riches are left behind.

While on earth, enjoy the presence of God, exalt His name among the nations, and pray for a spiritual revival in our land. Never be comfortable with earthly riches, and do not forsake serving the King who owns them.

“Indeed heaven and the highest heavens belong to the Lord your God, also the earth with all that is in it.”
~Deuteronomy 10:14~

TUESDAY June 21, 2022

Our Christian Hope

Haggai 2:6-7

Rebuilding the Temple would take a lot of work. In reassuring His people, God also gave the Jews a glimpse of the future. During the Tribulation Period, God’s wrath would come upon the earth; but after His judgment in the Kingdom Age, the Temple would be filled with His Shekinah glory–– His presence. The Temple would be incredible, better than the one Solomon built (Ezekiel 40-48). The Desire of All Nations is a reference to Jesus––the Messiah. Christ will reign and rule in peace for a thousand years in the Millennium Period. God gave His people hope for the future.

At this very moment in time, God is doing a work among us. His glory is working in and through our lives. The Lord of Hosts has empowered us by His Spirit, the same Spirit working though Zerubbabel: “This is the word of the Lord to Zerubbabel: ‘Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,’ says the Lord of hosts” (Zechariah 4:6). Be filled with the Holy Spirit to do the work of God. He has also reassured us by giving us a glimpse of our eternal hope for future in His Word:

...to an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled and that does not fade away, reserved in heaven for you,  who are kept by the power of God through faith for salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. ...receiving the end of your faith—the salvation of your souls (1 Peter 1:4-5; 9).

Look to the future. Jesus is coming again, and life is going to get better.

Christian hope is a certainty, guaranteed by God himself . . . Christian hope expresses knowledge that every day of his life, and every moment beyond it, the believer can say with truth, on the basis of God’s own commitment, that the best is yet to come.
~J.I Packer~

MONDAY June 20, 2022

Be Strong, I Am With You!

Haggai 2:4-5

God challenged the leaders and people to “be strong!” Even though they were very discouraged, He wanted to encourage them. All they needed to do was repent, get right with Him, and start working! They had been given a great privilege––to build His house. They were not to stay discouraged, but to get up and go forward! Nor did He want them to be fearful of their enemies, God’s Spirit was in the midst of them.

God is the only one who can encourage people when they are really down. There are times where couples are discouraged about their marriage, or a person is disillusioned about their job. Discouraged individuals sometimes feel they need counseling, but through prayer and fellowship with the Lord, their lives can be touched in such a miraculous way. After He speaks to their hearts, their countenance changes; they have received all the encouragement and all the strength they will ever need.

Life can be discouraging at times, especially in the work in the ministry, but God’s encouragement helps us to go forward. Life is hard, but knowing God is with us in our trials helps. We can trust Him; He loves us. As God is omnipresent, we can fellowship with Him anytime. Even though He allows us to go through difficulties, He can help make us strong––not in ourselves––but our strength comes from Him.

If you have fallen into sin, you should not stay down, but repent and get back up. If that is you, let nothing discourage you, make you afraid, or take you down a path of depression. God is with you! You do not have to be afraid of what other people may say. You are God’s treasure, and the Spirit of the Lord has revived you. He is in your heart.

The Lord is their strength, and He is the saving refuge of His anointed. Save Your people, and bless Your inheritance; shepherd them also,?and bear them up forever.
~Psalm 28:8-9~

SUNDAY June 19, 2022

A Leader’s Integrity

Haggai 2:4-5

Haggai gave another exhortation to the Jews; three times he told them “be strong.” God gave encouragement to the leaders and laborers to complete the assignment given to them. He entrusted His people with an amazing vision––the rebuilding of the Temple. God spoke first to the leadership, as they were the ones responsible to seek His will and to lead the people. God’s message was directed to the political leader, Zerubbabel, the governor of Judah, and then the religious leader, Joshua, the high priest, and finally, He spoke to the remnant––the people.

It was the duty of the governor and the high priest to set the standard for the people––to much is given, much more is required from the leaders. They were called to be models for them to follow, and, as such, they were to be men of integrity, not greedy or selfish for gain. When leaders have no integrity, and they become corrupt, those following will become very discouraged and unhappy. Bad leaders can cause much heartache.

John C. Maxwell breaks down the character of a good leader:

“Integrity: The leader’s life and words match. Justice: The leader rejects dishonest gain. Convictions: The leader’s values won’t allow him or her to accept bribes. Positive focus: The leader refuses to dwell on destructive issues. Pure: The leader disciplines his or her mind to remain clean and pure. Secure: The leader is firm, stable in his identity and source of strength.” The Maxwell Leadership Bible.

What kind of leader are you in the church? Are you maintaining a life of integrity before your family, church and community?

Integrity means that we are trustworthy and dependable,
and our character is above reproach.
~Billy Graham~

 SATURDAY June 18, 2022

A Vision for God’s Work

Haggai 2:1-3

Haggai is a very important book, as the prophet spoke a crucial message to the Jews. Remember, the Lord had allowed His people to go into captivity in Babylon, and after 70 years, only 50,000 return to the land. The older Jews wept when they saw the terrible condition of their Temple.

Solomon’s Temple, in its former glory, was magnificent, but what was it like now in comparison? The Temple was burned down ransacked of all its utensils and all the gold and silver. The glory of God had departed. The Lord’s intent was for His people to restore the Temple, but there was a hindrance to its restoration. The Jews neglected it while building their own beautiful homes. They had no vision to do the work of God.

Whenever God calls us to do something for His glory, it seems the enemy gets us sidetracked from His work. Why is that? I find people have literally dried up spiritually. They are no longer having a devotional time with the Lord. When they fail to have a disciplined devotional life, they have no real direction, and they become deaf to the will of God for their lives.

The Christian life is to be Christ-centered, not self-centered. God desires that we would align ourselves with His perfect will––to bring honor and glory to His name. We always need to have a vision and passion for what God has called us to do. We cannot do any God-given task if we are submitted and committed to Jesus Christ in our relationship to Him. What has God called you to do? Obey the call and fulfill your ministry.

...whatever you do, find the God-centered, Christ-exalting, Bible-saturated passion of your life, and find your way to say it and live it and die for it. And you will make a difference that lasts.
You will not waste your life.
~John Piper~

FRIDAY June 17, 2022

A Time and Place

Haggai 2:1

The first message God gave His people through the prophet Haggai came on August 29, 520 BC (Haggai 1:1). He exhorted them on the importance of their priorities in order to stir them to do His work––building the Temple. The second message came on September 21, 520 BC (Haggai 1:15), and then again, on October 17, 520 BC (Haggai 2:1). Every date given in the book of Haggai reveals that we serve a God who works His will chronologically––perfectly in order––according to His timetable. God keeps track of the days, the hours, the minutes, and the moments.

In His time, the Lord spoke through the prophet Haggai, messages that really hit the nail on the head. The Jews were placing God on hold in their lives. The Persian king told them to stop building the city of Jerusalem and its Temple, so they stopped (Ezra 4). However, later, before they restarted the work of building the Temple, God had seen that during the 16 long years, they were busy building their own homes––nothing was getting accomplished––the Temple was still left in shambles.

Every day is the Lord’s, so when you wake up every morning, make sure to do what is right in the eyes of the Lord. Your mindset should be to make the most of the day, make a difference by seeking first the kingdom of God––doing works that are lasting––eternal. As you get up to go to work, to school, or as a housewife tending to your children, make it a habit to start placing God first in your day. You will notice a big difference; there will be a greater awareness of God’s presence in your life.

I believe as we seek God first for His mercy and grace, He will give us spiritual blessings that we cannot even measure. His Holy Spirit will be poured out on our lives with a fresh anointing. He will do a tremendous new work. As we complete the book of Haggai, may God bring a lasting season of change––a revival through His Spirit upon our churches, our nation, and upon each individual life.

To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven:
~Ecclesiastes 3:1~

THURSDAY June 16, 2022

Investing in Eternity

Haggai 1:6

Are you investing in eternity? Haggai the prophet preached a set of fiery sermonettes to stir up the Jews who had returned to Jerusalem, as they had failed to build the house of God. Were they investing in eternal things? No. They were seeking their own selfish comforts. Haggai knew his God and boldly spoke the Word of the Lord to the people. The message he gave was not intended to make them comfortable, but uncomfortable––their priorities were all out of order.

I believe there is nothing wrong with having things. God blesses people financially––with prosperity. Think of all the people who have come to America, thankful to God for their freedom from persecution and for the wealth they have been able to accumulate. They enjoy capitalism, buying whatever they want. When a person has a better job, a house, and a nice car as they get comfortable, often times, they forget about God.

It is only when priorities become out of order that major problems occur––a bank account cannot be number one. Understand, those who are rich cannot take any of their riches with them, everything will be left behind–– just like the poor, naked we came, and naked we leave this world.

There are people who fail to understand the importance of coming into God’s house to worship and hear the Word of God. The Lord is going to bless them with joy and spiritual prosperity. They are investing in eternity. They may not see all their spiritual dividends on this earth, but God is keeping track of all of them––everything they are doing for His kingdom––all of their time and resources they have invested.

What counts in eternity is what we do for Jesus Christ––period.

Give me five minutes with a person’s checkbook and
I will tell you where their heart is.
~Billy Graham~

WEDNESDAY June 15, 2022

Hoarders and Misers

Haggai 1:6

Remember, God’s people had tucked away their moneybags by burying them in the ground––all their gold and silver coins. The Lord spoke to them through a prophet; He was calling His people back to priorities––God first. But instead of repenting and turning back to their God, they did not listen to Him until He got their attention. Those moneybags had holes in them! The more money they put away, the more money God took out!

Have you ever found yourself asking, “What happened to my money? Where did it go?” Did you know one of the reasons why you might not have much is because you are failing to give to the Lord? Everything we have belongs to Him. He gave it to us, but just as fast as He gave it to us, He can take it away. Job declared this truth: “The Lord gave, and the Lord has Lord taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord” (Job 1:21).

People in general are usually selfish. There are some who become misers or hoarders. They love to spend their time and efforts acquiring more and more riches. Such was the case of a woman named Hetty Green. According to the Guinness Book of World Records, she may have been the greatest miser of all time. When her father died, she inherited more than $100 million, according to today’s money.

Hetty looked an oddity––a grim, poky-faced woman shrouded in black. She was known for eating cold oatmeal, due to not wasting the heat. She stunk for lack of personal hygiene, only washing the hem of her garments. Hetty became known as the Witch of Wall Street. Her wealth grew to 4 billion dollars at the time of her death. She died miserable and alone.

There are so many poor people who are in need in the world. God would have us invest in His kingdom to help others––not hoard money for self.

God has given us two hands––one to receive with and the other to give with. We are not cisterns made for hoarding; we are
channels made for sharing.
~Billy Graham~

TUESDAY June 14, 2022

Meetings With Your Master

Psalm 119:147-148

Before we continue forward into Haggai 2, I want to go back for a time of review, as there are still so many lessons to learn, as we take into consideration the message Haggai gave to God’s people. I believe he was in tune with the Lord, fulfilling the call of God in his own life; but the Jews, in their despondency, did not realize that their hardships were divinely given as a direct result of their sin. God warned them and spoke to them, but at first, they did not listen. So He got their attention when they began to have financial problems and the land experienced drought.

For sure, as things get tougher in these last days, we need to draw closer to the heart of God. The days and years are going so rapidly. Yet I see a spiritual difference in the churches. There are some people in the congregation who have become religious; others have become carnal or materialistic. They no longer have a genuine, personal relationship with God. Going to church is only a duty––a tradition. Yet there are still true believers who are close to the heart of God.

When we come into the house of the Lord, we should be ready to receive from Him––to be open to the Holy Spirit. I believe what prepares a person to be in tune with God’s voice is having that one-on-one personal time with Jesus. Consider the psalmist who mediated on God’s Word in the morning and in the evening. Seriously, we should do the same. Do you meet with the Master before you leave your house in the morning? Start spending time with Jesus in the morning and then again at night.

I want to meet with my Master, to know Him more, to have His wisdom and discernment for the day ahead. I want the gifts of the Holy Spirit to be activated every morning, so that I can go into the highways and by-ways, as He uses my life. Are you taking the necessary time to do the same?

We are too busy to pray, and so we are too busy to have power. We have a great deal of activity, but we accomplish little....
~R.A. Torrey~

MONDAY June 13, 2022

A Message of Comfort

Haggai 1:13-15

God was at work stirring up the hearts of His people to change their priorities and to do the work He wanted them to do––see their change of heart and see their actions! They became busy with God’s plans––rebuilding the house of God. Obedience at last. They listened to the Lord; His words fanned the flames––a spiritual desire ignited. God had touched the hearts and lives of His people and brought about revival.

Notice, after the exhortation to “Consider their ways!” the Lord sent a comforting message to His people: “I am with you, says the Lord.” He reassured them of His presence. He had always been their refuge: God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble (Psalm 46:1). The Lord was their Rock and Redeemer: Then they remembered that God was their rock, and the Most High God their Redeemer (Psalm 78:35). His people needed to remember their God and put Him first!

Remembering the goodness and kindness of God will lead backslidden person to repentance (Romans 2:4). God stirs their hearts by His Spirit; He reignites their passion for Him. When a person mourns over their sin, God will comfort them and bring a revival in their heart: Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted” (Matthew 5:4).

Do you need the mercy and comfort of God today? Do you desire once more the reassurance of His presence? He promises to watch over you, for Jesus has said: “...lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen” (Matthew 28:20 KJV).

We cannot attain the presence of God. We’re already totally in the presence of God. What’s missing is awareness.
~David Brenner~

SUNDAY June 12, 2022

Hearing the Voice of God

Haggai 1:12

God was at work among the remnant of Israel. These Jews now listened to the words of Haggai and began to obey the voice of the Lord their God. They determined to build the house of God. We see them coming back into a right relationship with Him. Once more, they began to reverence God as they became aware of His presence among them.

What is your response to God’s voice? Do you turn a deaf ear, or do you repent, realizing just how far you have fallen away from having a right relationship with Him? Do you reverence the Lord and value His Word? Is it precious to you? Are you coming to the House of God with an eagerness to hear what He has to say to you? King David had a thirst for God. His relationship with Him was a priority; He loved to be in His temple:

One thing I have desired of the Lord, that will I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the Lord, and to inquire in His temple (Psalm 27:4).

As the deer pants for the water brooks, so pants my soul for You, O God.  My soul thirsts for God, for the living God (Psalm 42:1-2).

In these difficult days, the Word of God should be thought of as precious. It touches and changes our hearts. Do not neglect to coming to church, listen to the message taught by the messenger––and go away changed.

The Christian will desire to see the beauty of God in his house, that his soul might be ravished in the excellency of the object, and that the highest powers of his soul, his understanding, will, and affections might be fully satisfied, that he might have full contentment.
~Richard Sibbes~

 SATURDAY June 11, 2022

God Controls Nature

Haggai 1:10-11

By using nature, God got the attention of His people; they needed to consider their ways––to examine their lives’ priorities. There had been no rain. The drought caused the lack of needed produce––grain, grapes on the vines, and oil. How could they feed their livestock and nourish themselves? The cause of the drought was a direct consequence of their disobedience.

We have seen in California, severe droughts and, and mainly in the central plains, tornadoes and hurricanes. Extreme weather in late May caused Colorado to experience heavy snow, and deadly heat waves were unexpected on the east coast. The change in weather is not because the atmosphere is suddenly changing. Who is in charge of the weather? God is! I believe God is trying to get our attention through these occurrences.

The Lord is speaking loud and clear to all the nations of the world! Yet the world is not listening––even Israel is not listening. One day, they shall all have to listen! God is going to continue to do this until He sees true repentance for the corruption and sin in nations. He desires obedience. Yet nations and individuals continually fail to listen to what God has to say to them in His Word.

The prophecy given to Haggai, if taken seriously, can cause a nation or a person to examine their ways. The exhortation can bring them to a place of repentance for neglecting to put Him first. May God speak to your heart personally. If your relationship with Christ has grown cold, then ask Him to help you fall in love with Him all over again. He is not just the One who controls nature, but He can bring calm to the storms of life you face.

“Who can this be, that even the winds and the sea obey Him?”
~Matthew 8:27~

FRIDAY June 10, 2022

God Can Blow Wealth Away

Haggai 1:7-9

The Lord repeated His strong exhortation to His people––“Consider your ways!” If only they would repent and obediently go to the mountains to get timber to rebuild the Temple! He would be glorified, and they would praise Him for His faithful provision in the land.

However, it was not by coincidence that their finances had blown away. It was the Lord bringing His judgment upon them. Through the prophet Haggai, He clearly gave them the reason for their declining financial problems they faced. Only when they fully obeyed His voice could God bless them. All they needed to do was repent and do what was right.

Even though this prophecy is found in the Old Testament, it is for every one of us today! “Consider your ways!” How many people’s bank accounts have been drained because God is trying to get their attention? If this is the case, why not begin to get close to the heart of God, to hear His voice? Be open to what He has to tell you through the Scriptures. Ask Him to please forgive you for placing Him last, instead of first.

God can help you rearrange your priorities. His intent is to bless your life; He is more than able to restore your finances. Every day, place God first by developing an intimate friendship with Him. Then you will be ready for whatever God has planned for your life.

For the Lord God is a sun and shield; the Lord will give grace and glory; no good thing will He withhold from those who walk uprightly.
~Psalm 84:11~

THURSDAY June 9, 2022

Why Does Money Takes Wings?

Haggai 1:6

The Jews had become very materialistic, and God’s judgment came upon them. They would work and work to accumulate a lot of money, then go home and dig a hole in the dirt floor and cover it up; but the Lord told them that He would end up sooner or later, taking it all from them––their money would not last. Why? They had built for themselves beautiful homes with expensive panels––panels bought for their houses that were supposed to be used in the rebuilding of the Temple.

Building the house of the Lord should have been their priority; it was their place of worship. Even though there was no real place to praise and worship the Lord, some of the people went to the ruined temple anyway to do their duties, but was their motive a true commitment? Did they really love the Lord? Their lack of interest in rebuilding the Temple showed an absence of any love for God.

As believers, knowing that our bodies are the temple of the Lord (1 Corinthians 6:19-20), our priority is always to have God remain first in our lives. Whatever we do for the Lord has to come from a genuine motive of love. We enjoy a love relationship with Him, knowing He has our best interest at heart. Our willing submission rests in this––He loves us. Can we not obey Him?

Listen for the alarm sounding in your heart, the conviction of the Holy Spirit. He warns you of anything you are not doing right. If you need to change your priorities and the motives for why you are serving in the house of the Lord, pray and ask God to help you start today! He desires to bless your life. Understand that putting Him first will bring blessings.

Will you set your eyes on that which is not? For riches certainly make themselves wings; they fly away like an eagle toward heaven.
~Proverbs 23:5~

WEDNESDAY June 8, 2022

Consider Your Ways!

Haggai 1:5

This is the second time the prophet Haggai gave the phrase, “Consider you ways!” This was a strong call for the Jews to search their hearts!

I believe the prophecy spoken to God’s people can also be said to us in our time in history. “Consider your ways!” This command should cause us great searching of heart. These important questions help us to examine our lives, “Who is the main focus in your life? Is it God? If so, how is your commitment to Him reflected in your use of time and in your finances?”

Think about it. What have you been busy building for yourself? Who is your god today? Your bank account? Your job? Travel vacation playgrounds? Whatever it is, do not allow it to usurp God from being first place; put Him first instead. Please, especially in the times we live in––put God first––consider your ways!

Israel knew their God, but chose to disobey Him. They became so busy with their own lives that they completely forgot about the Lord. I talk to a lot of different people who find themselves backslidden. They used to faithfully go to church and be in Bible studies, but other things took priority, and they slowly fell back into the sins they did in the past, just as a dog returns to his own vomit, so a fool repeats his folly (Proverbs 26:11). We should never go backward, but forward in our relationship with Christ.

Remember, as Christians we are the temple of the living God:  Do you not know that you are the temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you?  If anyone defiles the temple of God, God will destroy him. For the temple of God is holy, which temple you are (1 Corinthians 3:16-17). Believers are to be holy, set apart for God. Knowing this, consider your ways and carefully listen to and obey all God is telling you to do.

God will speak to the hearts of those who prepare themselves to hear; and conversely, those who do not so prepare themselves will hear nothing even though the Word of God is falling upon
their outer ears every Sunday.
~A. W. Tozer~

TUESDAY June 7, 2022

Excuses! Excuses!

Haggai 1:2-4

God knew His people’s priority––self. He had listened to their conversations. They had come back into the land, but talked to each other, saying, “No, it is not the right time to build God’s house.” This was willful disobedience. The top priority was to build the Lord’s house; instead, the money they earned, the time they had, and all their efforts were poured into building their own beautiful homes.

They had obviously made excuses for putting off building God’s house. It was not a convenient time to do so––no, the time to build God’s house had not come. God was very displeased with their excuses. They needed a good examination of their lives. The message the Lord gave the prophet Haggai was so they could do just that––reevaluate their priorities and consider their ways. The Word of the Lord was used to bring conviction to their selfish motives and disobedient actions.

Have you ever tried to excuse yourself when someone has confronted you with something you have failed to do? Perhaps something you have done wrong in the workplace, school or at home? When it was brought to your attention, did you find an excuse?

Excuses are never beneficial. It is far better to be honest with people and just own up to what you have done wrong. It is nobler to take the blame than to offer lame excuses for your failures. Do not make procrastination a habit. Why not make the time to do what was asked of you? Obedience––so simple.

Know this, God does not accept our excuses; He expects our obedience.

Leadership is taking responsibility while others are making excuses.
~John C. Maxwell~

MONDAY June 6, 2022

The Importance of God’s House

Haggai 1:2

As we continue to study the book of Haggai, it is also important to read the books of Nehemiah, Ezra and Zachariah; they all fit together like pieces of a puzzle. Nehemiah and Ezra, a scribe and a priest, were godly men who were greatly used in rebuilding the Temple and the walls of Jerusalem. The prophet Haggai is mentioned with Zechariah the prophet in the book of Ezra:

Then the prophet Haggai and Zechariah the son of Iddo, prophets, prophesied to the Jews who were in Judah and Jerusalem, in the name of the God of Israel, who was over them. So Zerubbabel the son of Shealtiel and Jeshua the son of Jozadak rose up and began to build the house of God which is in Jerusalem; and the prophets of God were with them, helping them (Ezra 5:1-2).

Haggai’s message, as we have already established, was about priorities. The 50,000 Jews who returned to their land were supposed to rebuild the Temple. Yet God’s people got so involved with themselves. They needed to understand Haggai’s message from the Lord––it was a rebuke to chasten them. They were supposed to use their finances to rebuild the Temple and to restore the city gates.

What would we do without the house of God? It is so important to have a place of worship so we can sit and hear God’s Word. God’s house is a place of prayer so we can receive His peace. Many of us come to church with heavy burdens, terrible situations, and deep hurts. A pastor gives to us God’s message which speaks to our hearts so personally––directly.

I pray as we study the book of Haggai together that our lives will be aligned with God’s perfect will. I believe each of us will fit together as pieces of a puzzle to be a special part of what God is doing. Then we can be unified in reaching the lost in this wicked world.

The difference between listening to a radio sermon and going to church...is almost like the difference between calling your girl on the phone and spending an evening with her.
~Dwight L. Moody~

SUNDAY June 5, 2022

The Message of God

Haggai 1:1-2

Haggai’s message was spoken with complete authority; it was given to him from the Lord to address those in leadership. God wanted to awaken His people––to get their full attention. In a similar way, leaders in churches have a great responsibility, both men and women; they need to have an ear to hear what God is saying to them as they lead in any capacity in their fellowships.

As we study the Old Testament, we often find this common phrase, the word of the Lord came.... Notice the importance of the word of the Lord in the life of the prophet. Any message a prophet gave to God’s people was to always to benefit them spiritually. In authority, the Lord gave them a rebuke, correction, direction, or even words of comfort. God’s Word always led His people back into a right relationship with Him.

I love to hear what God is saying to my heart through His Word. I desire to be led by God’s direction and receive His wisdom for the decisions I need to make for my home, the church, and for the congregation. The Lord faithfully gives me His message for the people so they can grow spiritually.

As you spend time reading your Bible, you will recognize the voice of God speaking to your own heart through the Scriptures. The Lord will lead, guide, and give you wisdom for your life. When someone approaches you with questions about your faith, you will be able to open your Bible and show them exactly what God’s Word says about Christ, salvation, and their need for Him.

No spiritual discipline is more important than the intake of God’s Word. Nothing can substitute for it. There simply is no healthy Christian life apart from a diet of the milk and meat of Scripture.
~Donald S. Whitney~

 SATURDAY June 4, 2022

The Remnant

Haggai 1:1

Again, the book of Haggai is found among the Minor Prophets. We really do not know much about the prophet, but the book itself was written by him in two months. God used Haggai in such a pivotal time in Jewish history, when 50,000 Jews returned to the destroyed city of Jerusalem.

When the Babylonians besieged the city and took captives to Babylon 1000 miles away, according to the biblical calendar, we entered the time of the Gentiles. This period concludes at the Rapture, when the Church is taken out the world, and the Antichrist is revealed (1 Corinthians 15:50-52; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18; 2 Thessalonians 2:3).

Interestingly, God referred to the Jews who came back to Jerusalem from Babylon as a small remnant. As you study your Bible, the 39 books of the Old Testament and 27 books of the New Testament, God often used the word remnant. I believe, even at this particular time in biblical history, God is still looking for a remnant because of what is taking place and the prophetical events unfolding in the world today.

We have all felt the effects of inflation, which has caused gasoline and food prices to drastically rise. The world is not at peace. At this present time, Russia is at war with Ukraine. Is it possible that America might be involved in a world-wide conflict? We do not know, but prophetically, there are nations named in Ezekiel 38-39 that will invade Israel. War is horrible. Innocent people and military personnel are killed. Think about nuclear weapons in the hands of very unstable-minded leaders in different nations. It only takes a push of a button, and millions of people will die.

As believers, it is essential to spend quality time with Jesus. In these last days, we need to draw close to Him and hear His voice. People will begin to panic when they hear of food shortages and pestilences. They will begin to ask a lot of questions as to why these events are happening. As Christians, we have the biblical answers to give them hope.

God has not given us Bible prophecy to scare us, but to prepare us.
~Joel C. Rosenberg~

FRIDAY June 3, 2022

Time to Examine Your Priorities

Haggai 1:3-4

The prophet Haggai faithfully spoke God’s Word to the remnant of Jews who had returned from captivity in Babylon to Israel. They were supposed to take care of the Temple of God that needed to be rebuilt; but instead, they got caught up in themselves––building their own paneled houses. They had become utterly selfish. God’s people did not care there was no Temple for worship. What was God’s complaint to them? They were neglecting their relationship with God, and the house of the Lord was in ruins––did they not care?

The philosophy of the world remains the same––me, myself and I; but as Christians, God must always be first in our lives. God first! We need to be last. I know life can be so busy, but we should not spend all of our time on our own selfish desires. We need to have an eternal perspective in all the things we do. What responsibilities and priorities has God given to you to take care of in His kingdom?

Sadly, often the house of the Lord is neglected. God’s work and developing a heart of worship has become less of a priority. Do not make the same mistakes as the people of God. Seriously, we need a renewal of heart and purity of life. There is too much carnality, pride, selfishness and ungodliness in the Church. And yet we serve a holy God. May we place our lives in the hands of God, asking Him for His mercy and grace.

As I travel around the country and go overseas, I see God moving in some places; but in others, I see that the churches have become dry places––dead spots. My desire is to see the power of the Holy Spirit operating in every person in the Church. I pray God speaks to your heart in a mighty way through the book of Haggai. Let us all have an ear to hear what the Holy Spirit is saying to the Church.

The truth is, men are not basically good; they are basically evil, and the essence of their sin lies in their selfishness!
~A.W. Tozer~

THURSDAY June 2, 2022

Seek First the Kingdom of God

Matthew 6:33

Haggai the prophet had a message for God’s people to help them understand how they had strayed away from their priorities of God first. This reminded me of what Jesus taught in the Sermon on the Mount. He spoke to His disciples about needless worry. If God took care of the sparrow, how much more valuable were they? (Matthew 6:26-27). Jesus knew constant worry would hinder His followers’ lives. He lovingly reassured them of God’s love and divine care. Their heavenly Father was more than able to supply all their needs, so why worry?

Christians, like most people, tend to worry, especially when they lack money or material stability. I believe the root problem is that some people fail to get to know the character and attributes of God because they are not in His Word. Oswald Chambers stated: “Worry is an indication that we think God cannot look after us.” He also said: “Faith is deliberate confidence in the character of God whose ways you may not understand at the time.”

After addressing the issues of needless worry, Jesus also addressed priorities. His followers were to “...seek first the kingdom of God...” If they kept to this one priority, then everything else would fall into place. God is first!

As Christians, seeking God and His kingdom is to be our first priority. It is the key to everything we do in life. Our entire life’s pursuit is to seek first the kingdom of God. If we come to God by faith, seeking Him first, then He will add everything else to us effortlessly without us having to be anxious. Understand, everything He has planned for our lives will unfold naturally according to His plan, purposes and will.

Are you seeking first the kingdom of God or are you busy building your own kingdom?

No love of the natural heart is safe unless the human heart has been satisfied by God FIRST.
~Oswald Chambers~