When I was a young pastor, an older member of our congregation took me aside to give me some advice on preaching. My initial response was to feel defensive. But by God’s grace, I held my tongue and listened. He helped me to notice that I had some habits that needed to change. He said, “You always walk to the left and look at that side of the sanctuary. We feel a bit left out on the other side.” I had no idea. I probably walked to the left because I’m left-handed. I put in my notes to walk both ways until it became a habit.

In the first chapter of Haggai, the Lord had brought some significant criticism upon Israel and its leadership. He charged Israel with selfishness. They had been prioritizing their own needs and neglecting the house of the Lord. How would Israel respond? It might have been tempting to be defensive.

Thankfully, Israel responded in just the right way, “the whole remnant of the people obeyed the voice of the LORD their God and the message of the prophet Haggai” (v. 12). They were able to look honestly at their past behavior and repent. They had a heart that feared the Lord (v. 12). In response, God promised that He would help them complete the difficult and demanding work He had called them to (v. 13). God would empower the people to obey His commands. Work on the Temple was restarted (v. 14).

The Lord has given the church a job that often seems difficult and demanding—to make disciples of all nations (Matt. 28:19). Yet, God has not left us to our own efforts. The Lord Jesus promised, “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age” (Matt. 28:20). God is with you today as you seek to live for Him.

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