Read Haggai 1:1 through 2:23
Have you ever felt like you were running hard but getting nowhere? Zerubbabel probably felt that way. He was governor in Jerusalem over the first wave of returnees from the Babylonian captivity. A rush of excitement had initiated the rebuilding of the temple, but opposition, economics, and fatigue had caused a halt to the construction.
Haggai, the prophet, brought the word of the Lord that the building must be completed (Haggai 2:4). Zerubbabel accepted the challenge and led the people in restarting the work on the temple.
On the one hand, Zerubbabel was tired, overworked, under-funded, and frustrated. On the other, he was challenged to try the assignment one more time! Because of his faithfulness, the Lord put him at the intersection of the two lineages of Christ. Both Joseph and Mary were descendants of Zerubbabel.
No matter how weary you may feel today, do not give up! Though the Lord may rebuke, He never rejects. The crossroads you face may precede a royal heritage, the blessings of our future King!
Challenge for Today: Don’t quit. Keep working to accomplish God’s will for your life.
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