Haggai
The Book of Haggai is a brief but significant book in the Old Testament, consisting of only two chapters. It contains messages from the prophet Haggai, who prophesied in 520 B.C., during the period when the Jewish people were returning from exile in Babylon and beginning to rebuild Jerusalem, particularly the temple.Â
Rebuilding the Temple: Haggai’s primary message was to urge the people to rebuild the Temple in Jerusalem, which had been destroyed. He emphasized that the people’s neglect of the Temple was the reason for their lack of prosperity12.
Prioritizing God: Haggai called on the people to prioritize their relationship with God over their own comfort. He pointed out that while they lived in paneled houses, the Temple lay in ruins12.
Encouragement and Hope: Haggai encouraged the people by reminding them of God’s presence and promises. He assured them that their efforts would be blessed and that the future glory of the Temple would be greater than its past12.
Obedience and Blessing: The book also highlights the importance of obedience to God’s commands. Haggai’s messages led to the people resuming and eventually completing the construction of the Temple12.
Overall, the Book of Haggai is a call to action, urging the people to put God first and trust in His promises.
Scripture Reading Â