TUESDAY January 1, 2019
New Year’s Day
“Is it time for you yourselves to dwell in your paneled houses, and this temple to lie in ruins?” Now therefore, thus says the Lord of hosts: “Consider your ways!”
Haggai 1:4-5
In the time of the prophet Haggai, a remnant of God’s people had returned to Israel. They were supposed to take care of the house of God, but they got caught up with themselves and with their own homes. They were selfish. God’s people had no place for worship––the temple needed to be rebuilt. What was God’s complaint? They were neglecting their relationship with God and the house of the Lord which was torn down.
What are your priorities this year? The philosophy of the world today is me, myself and I, but God must always be first in our lives. Matthew 6:33 instructs us: But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you. God must be first––we need to be last. I know we can all get so busy, but we should not waste our time. What responsibilities do we need to take care of and what things should we do?
Today, the house of the Lord is becoming neglected and less of a priority for our worship. Instead, it has become a place of entertainment. Anybody can come to church and live how they want to––in sin. Let’s start this year on the right foot. Understand, this may be your last year on earth. If you think this way, then your priorities will change.
Seriously, we need a renewal of heart and purity of life today. Let us have an ear to hear what the Holy Spirit is saying to the Church. May this year be a better year in our worship, in our giving, and in the eternal things we do. May God continue to lead and guide you this New Year as He becomes your number one priority.
As God is exalted to the right place in our lives, a thousand problems are solved all at once.
~A.W. Tozer~
For more from Raul Ries, please visit Somebodylovesyouradio.org!