WEDNESDAY February 8, 2017
Sending a Wake-up Call
Then the word of the Lordcame by Haggai the prophet, saying, “Is it time for you yourselves to dwell in your paneled houses, and this templeto lie in ruins?” - Haggai 1:3
God sent Haggai to give a wake-up call to His people. Why? They could not see that their priorities were distorted. All that mattered to them was their money, wives, children, and the comfort found in their beautiful paneled houses. All those earthly comforts blinded them from what mattered most, the place of greatest importance––God’s house, which lay in ruins. Once set free from captivity the people were to build their temple, a place of worship but it was neglected and totally torn down.
When Jesus taught the Sermon on the Mount, He taught His disciples to have the right priorities. In Matthew 6:33, Jesus said: But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. Notice, that in context, Jesus had basically given the exact message as Haggai. Jesus spoke about not being anxious for food, clothes and all their earthly necessities in life.
Then the Lord focused the disciple’s attention on what should always be their first and right priority––God’s kingdom and true worship. Jesus taught the woman by the well that: God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth (John 4:24).
It is so important that we understand this concept of worship. Our lives are not to be spent with the main priority of building our own kingdom but building God’s kingdom. How can we be the people of God’s kingdom when we do not make the time to worship our King? Check your priorities by answering this question: “Where do you prefer to be every Sunday morning, in God’s house to worship the King? Or do you prefer to remain in the comfort of your own home?” Understandably some people have to work, but if not, your answer should tell you where your true priorities lie.
Let us go into His tabernacle;
let us worship at His footstool.
~Psalm 132:7~
For more from Raul Ries, please visit Somebodylovesyouradio.org!
