“Speak
to Zerubbabel, governor of Judah, saying, I am about to shake the
heavens and the earth, and to overthrow the throne of kingdoms. I am
about to destroy the strength of the kingdoms of the nations, and
overthrow the chariots and their riders. And the horses and their riders
shall go down, every one by the sword of his brother. On that day,
declares the LORD of hosts, I will take you, O Zerubbabel my servant,
the son of Shealtiel, declares the LORD, and make you like a signet
ring, for I have chosen you, declares the LORD of hosts.” Haggai
2:21-23
I continue my study of Haggai - using the Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary volume
for this book. For this morning, my focus is a commentary-assisted
review of Haggai 2:20-23, which the commentary outlines as the third
division (entitled God Will Shower His People with Blessing as His Chosen Ones) for Haggai 2:10-23, the next set of verses covered by a new
chapter in the commentary. Here the commentary highlights how the text promises three things: (1) "power will be restored to them, (2) peace will reign, and (3) they will have His presence." The commentary further describes these promises in the text as God shows his authority to do whatever He pleases to accomplish His will and fulfill His promises. Israel suffered under exile and captivity but God restores them. Weapons of war, including chariots and riders "will go down...by the sword of his brother," implying Israel will have peace. This is not just peace from conflict but also a supernatural peace of mind and the commentary refers us to John 14:27. Finally, the commentary, as do my sources from my post yesterday, highlight how God chooses Zerubbabel as "like a signet ring," and this points to the coming of Jesus as Jesus is in Zerubbabel's line (see Matthew 1). The commentary shares: "God deeply loved Zerubbabel and Israel, and that God was also entrusting him with His authority, which is symbolized by the ring. This offer of authority is a step beyond forgiveness; it is a declaration of the restoration of the close relationship between God and His chosen people. God not only forgives, He not only redeems, He not only blesses, but He also restores. What was initially a kingdom in shambles, slowly dying in its own disobedience, is now a robust and blessed kingdom, led well by a repentant and God-focused leader."
Comment and discuss this post.
My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an awesome God who loves me and who is full of grace and compassion for me. Thank You Jesus for redeeming and forgiving my sin and for restoring me by reconciling me with You. I am not deserving of these blessings....my sin is great and it continues...daily. Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.
