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[expand title=”Devotion Text”]Haggai 1:3-4
Then the word of the LORD came through the prophet Haggai: “Is it a time for you yourselves to be living in your paneled houses, while this house remains a ruin?”
When you drive through the neighborhoods in the rural towns of Panama, you’ll see many unfinished houses. People with little means build only when the resources become available. Many houses are half-finished with families crowded into the “completed” quarters. Other structures have been started and then abandoned. The neighborhoods are a picture of great intentions but unfinished work. That’s what is going on in the book of Haggai.
In 538 BC, Cyrus, the king of Persia, allowed 50,000 Jews to return to Jerusalem in order to rebuild the temple. Led by Zerubbabel, the foundation of the temple was completed in about two years. But opposition arose (surprise!?), and the Jews shut down the work. It remained on hold for the next eighteen years! In 520 BC, God sent Haggai and Zechariah to arouse the people from their fear and lethargy.
Are there incomplete spiritual structures in your life? Any great intentions but unfinished work? When God wanted the temple to be rebuilt, He was not satisfied with just the foundation. When God wants you to do great things for Him, He is not satisfied with a good start but no follow-through. Get up and get to work. Finish the task God has called you to! The ball is in your court. Or should I say, the pick and shovel are in your hands.
Father, don’t let us be satisfied with unfinished work. Arouse our hearts to finish everything that You have called us to do. Don’t let us live with excuses. Help us complete the task for Your honor and Your glory. In Christ’s name. Amen.
[/expand]Read through the Bible this year:
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