Then the word of the LORD came by the hand of Haggai the prophet, “Is it a time for you yourselves to dwell in your paneled houses, while this house lies in ruins? Haggai 1:3-4
I continue with 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 1:3-4, the second sub-division. The commentary entitles
this subdivision as Choosing Comfort over Obedience Is a Sign of Misplaced Priority. V2 (see yesterday's post) shares God's disappointment in Israel as they share how they no longer seek to rebuild God's temple - rather they are more focused on attending to their daily lives, ignoring the most important commandment which is to love God with all of Your heart, soul and mind. V2 describes God disappointment in an implied manner while God becomes more explicit in his words towards Israel. God's question here should not be lost on believers (myself included) who do not focus on cultivating and growing in their relationship with Jesus. Once we become one of God's elect, God does not want us to stay "infants" in our faith but instead wants us to grow into who He intends for us - spiritual maturity.
Excerpts from the commentary:
- "Haggai specifically uses a word for paneled that implies “well appointed” or “comfortable.” In other words, they were not only settled in their homes, they had been to their equivalent of Pier One, had acquired all sorts of beautiful accoutrements for their homes, and were living comfortably. While Haggai is not condemning their comfortable living, he is condemning this living at the expense of obedience to God’s commands." We are referred to Malachi 1:6-7 where Israel once again is called out by God for putting themselves above God....skimping on costs regarding sacrifice offered at the altar.
- Believers should go to Luke 9:23 where Jesus challenges them to see how following Him would be costly...at times with our physical bodies (see Voice of the Martyrs). This is heart condition issue.
- The commentary quotes David Foster Wallace who shares how all of humanity worships and how worship can consume you and leave you empty. For believers worship of the One True God Jesus Christ SHOULD consume us but it animates and leaves us fulfilled and satisfied as NOTHING else can - He is the Living Water!
- We are reminded to draw near to God and worship Him!
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 - thank You for Your patience and love as I grow - I often put myself first, my comforts, etc. Please forgive me Jesus! Help me overcome and turn from such sin and 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.
