Consider Your Ways
This morning I was reading in the book of Haggai and found something that piqued my interest. In Haggai chapter 1, the prophet writes: "Thus says the LORD of hosts: 'These people say the time has not yet come to rebuild the house of the LORD.' Then the word of the LORD came by the hand of Haggai the prophet, 'Is it a time for you yourselves to dwell in your paneled houses, while this house lies in ruins? Now, therefore, thus says the LORD of hosts: Consider your ways.'"
Consequently, as the people focused on their own material wealth, they neglected God's priority - the rebuilding of His house. Throughout the text you continue to hear the phrase "Consider your ways!” Some have translated this phrase to say, "Look at what's happening to you!"
Too often, the protection of our own investment interests restricts us from enjoying the bountiful blessings that occur when seeking first the kingdom of God. I can imagine Haggai walking down Wall Street crying out, “Consider your ways!” I doubt that many would listen. However, in Haggai's day the people responded and repented after carefully considering their selfishness and greed. They considered their ways. They considered the words of the prophet - that their wages were put into pockets with holes. The more they gained, the more they spent, and the less satisfied they were. What a picture! Pockets with holes! I can imagine that there are many who can identify with this, especially in light of our economy.
The book of Haggai is one of the most important books of the Bible for today’s world. You see, in order for God to get their attention, He ruined everything they worked so hard to get. But upon hearing the words of God, the people responded. Within a month the Lord turned this curse into a blessing.
It was only when they considered their ways and turned their attention to what was most important - the things of God - that God began to bless. The losses that are occurring in our culture and economy are always a divine reminder to turn. In Proverbs 1:23 we read, “Turn at my reproof and I will pour out my Spirit unto you and make known my words to you.” If you desire to be full of life, liberty, and turn losses into gains, all it takes is to first, “Consider your ways,” and then turn to God, His Word, and His ways.
