A Call to Rebuild: From Discouragement to Devotion
1427 Church
Haggai 1:5–15
Scripture References:
Ezra 3–4 | Haggai 1–2 | Genesis 3:9 | Exodus 3:4–6 | Deuteronomy 6:4–5 | Jeremiah 31:33–34 | Micah 6:6–8
Background
- After 70 years in exile, the Israelites returned home.
- They began rebuilding the temple with joy, but opposition and discouragement stopped the work for 16 years (Ezra 3–4).
- God’s people weren’t just forgetful—they were discouraged by outside pressures.
Main Points
1. Check Your Heart
Haggai 1:5, 7; 2:15, 18
- “Consider your ways” = Set your hearts on your ways (plural!).
- God calls us to take inventory of our lives—personally and as a community.
- Are we investing in God’s priorities, or just surviving?
Reflection:
- Where am I investing my time, energy, and resources?
- How do my choices affect my community?
2. Worship Ain’t Real Until It’s Personal
Haggai 1:12–13
- The people responded to God’s Word with obedience and reverence.
- God’s promise: “I am with you.”
- God wants a personal relationship, not just general belief.
Reflection:
- Is my worship personal or just routine?
- Am I responding to God’s Word in faith?
3. When Obedience Feels Small—God’s Encouragement
Haggai 1:14–2:5
- God energized and encouraged the people—even when progress seemed small.
- Don’t compare your obedience to others—God sees and values your faithfulness.
- Zerubbabel and Joshua’s leadership pointed to Jesus, our true King and High Priest.
Reflection:
- Do I feel like my efforts are insignificant?
- How can I trust that God is building something greater than I can see?
Gospel Connection
- Israel’s leaders were shadows of the true King and High Priest—Jesus Christ.
- Just like Israel, we too have to believe God is building something greater than we can see!
- Jesus rebuilds not just temples, but hearts and lives.
Discussion & Application
- What pressures or discouragements have kept you from pursuing God’s priorities?
- How can you make your worship more personal this week?
- Where do you need God’s encouragement to keep going?
Prayer
Lord, help us to set our hearts on Your ways, to worship You personally, and to trust that You are with us—even when our efforts seem small. Amen.