Take Courage and Work

As the Jews returned to Jerusalem from exile, some knew that, regardless of its magnificence, the new temple was “nothing in comparison” with Solomon’s temple. Thus, this temple reminded them of all that they had lost (and their past sins and mistakes).

Yet God wanted them to “take courage” and get beyond their discouragement and disappointment. To think less about their failures and more about Him and His plans for the future.

To do this, they had to have courage. As long as they focused on the past, they could not move forward and fully embrace the future. While they thought about their failures, they could not put their focus on God. When they were negative, they could not be positive. He wanted them to be courageous, and move forward boldly, with faith.

It is easy to be obsessed with our mistakes and the opportunities lost. Our minds can be dominated by questions like, “What if?” or, “If only . . .” While learning from the past, and our mistakes, we need to be able to have courage and faith to move forward. And, as God said to His people through Haggai, He wants us to “work,” trusting that He will be with us.

In your life, do not allow your past to keep a hold on you. Be honest with God. Confess and receive forgiveness for your sins. Then, be ready to obey His call, always moving forward by faith, confident that He has a plan for you.