June 26

Introduction

Haggai 1:1–15: Haggai was one of the prophets who urged the people to rebuild the Temple in Jerusalem. The people had returned from exile in Babylonia (538 B.C.) and had now lived in Jerusalem for nearly twenty years, but the Temple still lay in ruins. Haggai warns the people that their failure to rebuild the Temple has brought about the hardship they are experiencing, but that those hard times will end once construction work begins.

Today’s Key Verse: Haggai 1:13

Haggai gave the LORD’s message to the people: “I will be with you—that is my promise.”

Reflect

What was Haggai’s message to the people? What were the consequences of their apathy? How did Haggai stir the people to action? Within your community of faith, how are people inspired to get started when faced with a task?

Pray

Lord God, forgive me when I am apathetic and fail to carry out your will. Thank you for your steadfast love and words of encouragement from the Scriptures. Inspire me to act when confronted with a task that will advance your Kingdom. Amen.

Tomorrow’s Reading

Haggai 2:1–23: The splendor of the new Temple is described.