10/15/25 Prioritizing God’s House

Takeaway: When we put God’s work first, we plant seeds that bring His blessings and renewal into every area of our lives.

Opening Prayer (Wednesday)

Father, in the middle of this week, I lean on You for strength. When I am weary, be my rest. When I am uncertain, be my guide. Refresh my soul as I draw near to You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Reflection

The prophet Haggai speaks to a people who had returned from exile full of hope and promise. They had experienced God’s faithfulness in bringing them home to Jerusalem, yet over time their priorities had shifted. The Temple, the house of the Lord, lay in ruins while everyone was busy building and beautifying their own homes. The people were working hard, but somehow nothing seemed to prosper. Their harvests were small, and their efforts seemed to vanish like vapor. Through Haggai, God calls them to “give careful thought” to their ways; not to condemn them, but to awaken them to a truth. When we neglect God’s work, we cut ourselves off from the source of true abundance.

Haggai’s message still speaks directly into the life of the church today, especially during stewardship season. Like the people of Judah, we live in a culture that prizes self-sufficiency, and personal comfort. It is easy to focus our energy on maintaining our own ‘houses’, our families, careers, and plans. Yet, the prophet reminds us that when God’s house is left unattended something vital withers within us. We can work tirelessly and still feel empty because our lives are out of rhythm with God’s will. The call to “rebuild the house” is not just about structures; it is a summons to reorder our hearts so that God once again stands at the center of all we do.

When we invest in the life of the church, worship that lifts hearts, ministries that serve the vulnerable, and missions that spread God’s love we are sowing seeds of renewal. Just as the rebuilding of the Temple became the visible sign of Israel’s restored covenant, our stewardship becomes the living sign of faith renewed. It is a declaration that God’s work matters most, and that everything else in life finds its blessing and meaning when it flows from that center.

Haggai reveals that when the people turned their attention to God’s house, everything else began to flourish. Their fields yielded again, their work was blessed, and joy returned to their community. In the same way, when we give ourselves to God’s work first, He brings fruitfulness into every other area of our lives. Our giving opens channels of grace. Our service draws us closer to one another. Our generosity becomes a means by which God’s presence is made visible in the world. In putting God first, we discover that He has already been pouring Himself out for us all along.

Questions

What are the “houses” in your own life that easily take priority over God’s house (your time, energy, or attention)?

In what ways might God be calling you to “give careful thought to your ways,” as Haggai urged the people of Judah?

Application

Haggai’s message challenges us to examine our priorities and bring them into alignment with God’s will. In stewardship season, this means renewing the spiritual center of our lives and community. When we give generously and serve faithfully, we are participating in God’s rebuilding project. Consider who you can give generously and serve faithfully.

Closing Prayer

Gracious God, You are the source of every blessing and the builder of all that endures. Forgive me when I become absorbed in my own pursuits and neglect the work of Your kingdom. Stir my heart, Lord, to place You first in all things. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

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