The New TempleSample

“For thus says the Lord of hosts: Yet once more, in a little while, I will shake the heavens and the earth and the sea and the dry land” – Haggai 2:6

Haggai 2:6 is the only verse in the book that is repeated in the New Testament (in Hebrews 12:26-27). It speaks to the Lord’s intention to shake the present order of the earth on Christ’s future day of judgment. Hebrews 12:26-27 explains that God will remove all the old things, so that “only that which cannot be shaken remains.” This means that God will take the current world and replace it with a kingdom where His way prevails.

Earlier in the book of Haggai the Lord explains what happens when we seek our own good first:

“You looked for much, and behold, it came to little, And when you brought it home, I blew it away. Why? Declares the Lord of Hosts. Because of my house that lies in ruins, while each of you busies himself with his own house”.

God was telling his people to prioritize Him over things of the world. God still wants us to focus on Him first.

How can we prepare for this shaking of the world order? We must put the Lord first in all things. He must receive the first fruits of our time, wealth, and gifts rather than what is left over.

Reflection:

What are some ways that you can put the Lord first? Create a goal for yourself and share it with a trusted friend or family member. Practice it as a simple step of putting the Lord’s ways before your own.

Other Verses to Consider:

-Proverbs 3:9-10

-Psalm 145:3

-Matthew 22:37

-Matthew 6:31-33