Written by: John Sernaque
Call to Worship
Haggai 1: 13
1:13 Then spake Haggai the LORD'S messenger in the LORD'S message unto the people, saying, I [am] with you, saith the LORD.
Reproof Changed to Encouragement—
It was after Haggai’s second message that the people felt that the Lord was in earnest with them. They dared not disregard the repeated warning that their prosperity and the blessing of God were dependent upon their entire obedience to the instructions given them. As soon as they decided that they would do the words of the Lord, His messages of reproof changed to words of encouragement. O how merciful a God we have! He says, “I am with you.” The Lord God omnipotent reigneth. He assured the people that if they were obedient, they would place themselves in a position where He could bless them for His own name’s glory. If God’s people will only rely upon Him, and believe in Him, He will bless them (Manuscript 116, 1897). {4BC 1176.1}
If you love Me, keep My commandments. This is God’s message to His people. Obey, and you will be an heir to the Royal Family. You will receive God’s blessings and His mercy. He says, “I am with you.” Knowing this, Haggai was not discouraged while rebuilding the temple. Haggai loved God. We too have the same opportunity, as did Haggai, to love God and keep His commandments. God is with all His saints. He will never leave us nor forsake us. Rely and believe on Him and God will shower His blessings unto you and your household.
Dear God,
We thank You for Your Spirit that leads us and guides us. We have made mistakes and thank You for Your correction. We repent of our sins and pray for forgiveness. We thank You for helping us to change our ways and always being there for us with Your words of encouragement. For letting us know that You are with us. We pray that we can fulfill Your will for us in our lives and that we glorify You for Your name’s sake. We thank You for Your love and Your mercy. We believe and rely on You and pray to receive Your blessing. We thank You and praise You, in the name of Christ Jesus, we pray. Amen.
