Haggai

Haggai: Rebuilding What Matters Most

Imagine coming home after a long time away, only to find your house in ruins. That’s how the Israelites felt when they returned to Jerusalem after being exiled in Babylon. Their temple, the centre of their worship and connection to God, lay in ruins.

Haggai, a prophet, steps into this scene. He delivers a message from God, urging the people to rebuild the temple. But it’s not just about bricks and mortar; it’s about rebuilding their relationship with God and prioritizing what truly matters.

The Story in a Nutshell

• Neglect and Complacency: The Israelites had settled into their comfortable lives and neglected to rebuild the temple, focusing on their own homes and prosperity.
• Wake-Up Call: Haggai challenges them, pointing out the drought and hardship they’re facing because they’ve misplaced their priorities.
• Call to Action: He inspires them to start rebuilding, reminding them that God is with them and will bless their efforts.
• Renewed Hope: As the work progresses, Haggai encourages them with promises of future glory and restoration.

Key Themes for Young People

• Priorities: What’s most important in your life? Are you focused on God or more on material things and personal comfort?
• Obedience: God calls us to act, not just sit around and complain. Are you willing to step out in faith and do what He asks, even if it’s difficult?
• Perseverance: Rebuilding isn’t easy. It takes time, effort, and overcoming obstacles. Are you willing to keep going even when things get tough?
• God’s Presence: God is with us, even in the mess. He gives us strength, guidance, and hope for the future. Do you trust Him to see you through?

Questions for Reflection

1. What are some “temples” in our lives today that might need rebuilding? (Relationships, habits, spiritual life)
2. How does God use challenges or hardships to get our attention and redirect our focus?
3. What promises does God make to those who put Him first and seek His kingdom?
4. How can we encourage and support each other in rebuilding our lives and communities?
5. What steps can you take today to prioritise God and align your life with His purposes?

Haggai’s message is timeless and relevant for us today. It’s a reminder that when we put God at the centre of our lives and invest in what truly matters, we experience His blessings and see His glory restored in our lives and communities.

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Haggai was a prophet who, along with Zechariah, encouraged the returned exiles to rebuild the temple. His prophecies clearly show the consequences of disobedience. When the people give priority to God and his house, they are blessed.

After the return from captivity, Haggai was sent to encourage the people to rebuild the temple, and to reprove their neglect. To encourage their undertaking, the people are assured that the glory of the second temple shall far exceed that of the first, by the appearing therein of Christ, the Desire of all nations.

Matthew Henry