And the LORD stirred up the spirit of Zerubbabel the son of Shealtiel, governor of Judah, and the spirit of Joshua the son of Jehozadak, the high priest, and the spirit of all the remnant of the people. And they came and worked on the house of the LORD of hosts, their God, on the twenty-fourth day of the month, in the sixth month, in the second year of Darius the king. Haggai
1:14-15
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 1:14-15, which the commentary outlines these verses as both the the third and final subdivision of 1:13-15. The commentary title for this subdivision: The Lord Stirs the Spirits of the Leaders and the People to Encourage Them and Equip Them to Obey. Here we get a glimpse of how God works as he "stirred up the spirit" of the governor, the high priest, and the remnant of the people. If we surrender to God, God is not only with us (v13), but He is in us and directing our thoughts and ways. Romans 12:2 is instructive here for how we are called to "be transformed by the renewing of our mind" and how we "may discern what is the will of God." It is then God who brings about our obedience to Him - see also Romans 1:5. Excerpts from the commentary for this subdivision:
- Here the commentary focuses on leadership - the governor and the high priest - and how the influence of leadership works among the people. God equips, enables and works through leadership - even though all leadership is prone to sin as we all are. God places earthly authorities in our lives - see also Romans 13:1. Leaders should recognize their role and surrender their own hearts to God...and the people will follow - see also 1 Corinthians 11:1.
- Heart condition is key and it is the Lord that works in our hearts. Leadership should recognize that heart condition is what drives change and action.
Comment and discuss this post.
My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an amazing God who has placed Godly leaders in my life to direct me to You - thank You Jesus! I am not deserving of You stirred up the spirits and hearts of people who lead me who in turn lead me to You. Thank You Jesus. I am not deserving of these blessings nor my salvation or any other blessings You pour out for me daily. My sin 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.
