Haggai 1:6 (KJV)
Ye have sown much, and bring in little; ye eat, but ye have not enough; ye drink, but ye are not filled with drink; ye clothe you, but there is none warm; and he that earneth wages earneth wages to put it into a bag with holes.
During Haggai’s era, it was a tragic truth that not only was the Lord’s House forgotten, but the people of God were also experiencing defeat. While neglecting the rebuilding of God’s temple, they indulged in constructing luxurious homes and focused solely on worldly possessions. Due to their misplaced priorities, the Lord withheld His blessings from them, resulting in unproductive herds and meager harvests despite their significant investment of time and labor. Essentially, they were wasting their hard-earned money on bags with holes! Whenever we prioritize our interests over God’s, we are bound to experience disappointment, discouragement, and loss. Although there may be fleeting pleasures or material gains, wrong priorities will ultimately lead to no gain. Despite their hard work, some individuals struggle to see the fruits of their labor. They may eat their fill yet remain unsatisfied, and no amount of water can quench their thirst. They may wear multiple layers but still feel the chill. Their earnings seemingly vanish into thin air, as if they were stashing their money in pockets with holes. A sense of emptiness, disillusionment, and dissatisfaction can take hold when one neglects to recognize the role of a greater power in our world.
Today’s world is consumed with self (self-pride, self-ambition, self-will), with many out for their interests! No wonder God has blown on our materialistic pursuits, and nothing of it can ever satisfy. However, as beings made in the image of God, it is our purpose to bring Him glory. To truly experience joy, we must follow Christ’s teachings and prioritize the kingdom of God and His righteousness above all else. Serving God and the interest of His Kingdom as a lifestyle puts us in command of all things others are dying or struggling to get. Psalms 34:10, “The young lions do lack, and suffer hunger: but they that seek the Lord shall not want any good thing.” Serving God offers unmatchable returns. As believers in Christ, having a strong foundation in our faith is essential. So, we can withstand any storm and reap bountifully with a steadfast commitment to our faith. Let’s nurture our spiritual growth by deepening our relationship with God. We are to invest our time and resources into the Kingdom of God. Abandoning God’s Assignment or Project in pursuit of ours calls for the hammer of God.
Beloved brothers and sisters, there is a reason for your loss and failure. You have not made God’s first things first, nor do you acknowledge Him in all your ways. Devoting yourself to the necessities of life, such as sowing, eating, drinking, and earning wages, is essential. However, it’s equally important to remember your ministry in the body of Christ, the temple of God. Neglecting this can lead to living a life filled with constant frustration. Seeking comfort and security from the world may seem like a good idea. However, it’s crucial to spend your time and energy for God’s glory; every pleasure that doesn’t bring glory to God will eventually leave a sour aftertaste of depression, guilt, and frustration. By focusing on your ministry in the body of Christ, you’ll find inspiration and fulfillment in everything you do. Kingdom Assignment should not be put on hold until your so-called important things are cared for. Your worship to God is a core necessity, for without Him, nothing ever satisfies. Without the Lord, life is empty and meaningless. When you are consumed with doing God’s work, you have joy and satisfaction. God’s blessings flow for those who serve. You must make yourself available to be useful in the service of God. Whatever assignment or job you do, endeavor to serve God alongside it. Today, God wants you to put His interests first so He can bless and favor you again. Be more dedicated and kingdom-minded. As you respond to His assignment, He is duty-bound to provide and keep you safe. Remember, a life dedicated to Kingdom Assignment can always be full of the additions of desirable things.
O Lord, help me focus more on eternity and look up to You alone in all things in Jesus’ Name.