1. Haggai
“Consider your ways”

2. Background Haggai was a prophet and a contemporary of Zechariah
He returned to Jerusalem after the Babylonian exile.
For context, Esther takes place shortly after this in Babylon.
Haggai is part of the story of the Jews who returned to Jerusalem.
More context for this can be found in the books of Ezra and Zechariah.

3. Warnings “These people say the time has not yet come”
Is it time for you to dwell in paneled houses, while this house lies in ruins?
Consider your ways…
You’ve sown much but harvested little.
You eat, but don’t get full
You clothe yourselves but no one is warm.
He that earns wages, put them in a bag with holes in it.

4. Warnings The heavens have withheld their dew.
God has caused a drought on the land, grain, new wine, oil, etc.
New Wine – Typically symbolizes the Holy Spirit.
Oil – Symbolizes the anointing. Luke 4:18
But there is mercy.

5. Obedience
God gives them instructions. “Go up to the hills and bring wood and build the house…”
He reiterates His judgment.
He tells them WHY – Because of his house.
The people respond with obedience.
God encourages – “I am with you”
God stirs up the spirits of the people.

6. How does this apply?
As the church moves forward with new building, it’s going to require sacrifice.
It’s going to require our time.
It’s going to require money.
It’s going to require work.

7. How do this apply? 2 Cor. 6:16 – “We are the temple of the living God”
As such, we are responsible for how we build that temple.
Consider your ways…
Are your prayers bouncing off the ceiling?
Are you planting a lot but harvesting a little?
Build His house for Him. It’s not about us!
Build up the body.

8. Good News!! God will not hold back his blessings.
Ezra 6:14 – “So the elders of the Jews were building and prospering through the prophecy of Haggai the prophet.”
God is with us! “I am with you” Haggai 1:13
God will stir us up!