HAGGAI 1

HAGAAI WARNS THE ISRAELITES TO PRIORITIZE GOD’S HOUSE OVER THEIR OWN 

As the freed exiles return to Israel, the prophet Haggai warns the people not to prioritize building their individual homes above building the temple. Instead of focusing on restoring the temple, where God’s presence would dwell, the Israelites were distracted by building their own dwelling places.

Haggai warns that self-focus always leaves people wanting more. Instead of finding contentment and purpose in working for God, their efforts go towards their own well-being and leave them with feelings of lack and want. Haggai emphasizes the emptiness that can often accompany selfish ambition.

In response to the Israelites stinginess and neglect of the temple, God allows a drought that causes the orchards to perish and the crops to wither. Haggai was able to get the attention of the people, drawing them back to God and His desires for the temple.