Consider your Ways

Written By Ricardo McGee

Haggai 1:7-9

The prophet Haggai admonishes the returned exiles with a compelling directive: “Reflect on your actions.” The Hebrew term rendered as "consider" (שִׂ֥ימוּ לְבַבְכֶ֖ם, siymu levavkhem) literally translates to "set your heart upon." This is not a mere recommendation but a mandate for moral and spiritual reflection.

Sixteen years post-Babylonian exile, the inhabitants of Judah had reinstated their lifestyles, reconstructed their dwellings, and revitalized agriculture. Nevertheless, the Temple—God's abode—continued to lie in desolation. Despite their diligence, they encountered frustration: the harvests failed, and prosperity eluded them. Their economic adversities were not solely coincidental—they were fated. God Himself "blew upon" their endeavors (v. 9), rendering them unproductive. What is the reason? Because His residence was abandoned while their own needs were prioritized.

The directive in verse 8 is both pragmatic and religious. "Ascend the mountain, procure timber, and construct the dwelling." Compliance with this directive will exalt God. Worship must be fundamental, not ancillary. The populace's disorganized priorities exposed spiritual indifference and egocentrism. Haggai tells both them and us that God does not bestow blessings upon misguided devotion.

The communication continues to be urgent today. Numerous individuals prioritize personal achievement, comfort, and reputation, while God's objectives—His Church, His mission, His calling—remain overlooked. Our plans lack sovereignty. We must inquire: are we constructing God's abode, or simply embellishing our own?

• Divine Invitation to Introspection: “Consider your ways” serves as a call to assess one's reasons, values, and priorities in accordance with God's desire.

• Misplaced Priorities Result in Spiritual Frustration: The individuals suffered not due to accident, but as a consequence of divine punishment.

• The Glory of God Demands Obedience: Constructing His dwelling pleases Him and reveals His glory (v. 8).

• Worship Must Be Paramount: The Temple served not just as a structure but also as a representation of God's habitation. Neglecting it signified disorganized veneration.

• Action Is Imperative: Obedience necessitates movement—“go,” “bring,” and “build.” Devotion is not a passive state.

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Ricardo McGee

This individual is a highly motivated and divinely chosen individual who serves as a preacher, prophet, evangelist, teacher, activist, and creator of Messianic Ministries in the 21st century. An adept and charismatic young clergyman with a persuasive message. The individual possesses a range of roles and qualities, including being an intercessor, prayer warrior, marriage counselor, servant leader, armor bearer, and having exceptional ability to speak with practical relevance.

Holds a Bachelor's Degree in Church Ministry (2002) and graduated with Honors, distinguishing himself as one of the foremost leaders among his peers. The ministry has been accompanied by numerous signs and wonders, which have occurred as a direct consequence of the proclamation of the Gospel and its acceptance via faith. I have been fortunate to have had the opportunity to travel extensively, including worldwide, thanks to the benevolence of God.

As an activist, he advocates for and takes action to bring about social, political, economic, and environmental reforms in order to create positive changes in societies. His activism encompasses various methods, including community organizing, lobbying elected authorities, and engaging in demonstrative activism at both local and international levels.

https://messianicministries.online
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