Because of my house, which remains a ruin,
while each of you is busy with your own house. Haggai 1:9 NIV
The book of Haggai describes the Israelites
as a people who are interested in their own worldly prosperity and who are neglecting
the Kingdom of God in their pursuit of material gain. The prophet points out to
them that in spite of their hard work, their harvests are slight, their appetites
are not satisfied, their clothes don’t keep them warm and their money keeps
disappearing. He is challenging the
people to put God first and see how He will bless them. Today, many people,
Christians and non-Christians are struggling to get their personal house in
order and postponing any engagement with God until they feel secure in their careers,
houses, or relationships. Sadly, they have it all backwards as the first stone
of security is to be in relationship with God. Seek first the Kingdom of God.
Life really can seem like a book. I have
watched friends and family chase after fame and fortune, careers and adventures
and, while they have obtained some of what they were hoping for, the amount of
effort is not in line with the meager return. On the other hand, I have seen
people who put God first in their lives and I have observed how God has blessed
them above and beyond their efforts. God has chosen to bless me financially in
unexpected ways and I thank him for honouring my desire to put his kingdom first
even if it cost me money.
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