Rebuilding In Life

      This week I have been studying the short book of Haggai.  This little-known prophet Haggai was called to prod the Jewish people who had returned from exile in Babylon to restart their project to rebuild the temple of God.  They were commanded to rebuild a physical temple, the central worship center for Israel. Most of us are called to rebuild something in our lives.  Is there an area of your life that lies in ruins?  It might be our marriages, relationships with grown children, finances, reputation, careers, or health.  I think there are some rebuilding principles that we can grab hold of in this rarely read book.
      First, prioritize God.  Haggai rebukes the people because the temple was in ruins, and they were living in “paneled houses.”  In short they were living selfishly rather than for the Lord.  In contrast, the Westminster Catechism says, “the chief end of Man is to glorify God and enjoy Him forever.”  Selfishness is what led to the nation’s defeat and exile for 70 years in the first place.  Honestly what has selfishness cost you?   What has it ruined in your life?  The point of our lives is not collecting more stuff or getting likes on social media but pointing people to our Creator and Redeemer.  As we serve God and others, we begin to rebuild those areas that our selfishness has damaged.  Haggai shared that God said, “I am with you” (Haggai 1:13). As we prioritize our relationship with God and experience His presence we can move into a life where we flourish.
     Second, rebuild with others.  In the book of Haggai the prophet partnered with Zerubbabel the governor and Joshua the High Priest.  Rarely can we successfully rebuild alone.  The recovery movement is built on the idea that healing happens in circles.  Circles of people talking and walking together towards a rebuilt, restored life.  If you are trying to rebuild an area of your life, who could pray for you, encourage you and walk beside you?  Answer this question and you are beginning to turn ruins into restoration.
      Third, we must persevere.  In chapter two of Haggai the people who began rebuilding become discouraged.  The senior citizens remembered the glory of the temple built by Solomon and their temple did not look as impressive as Soloman’s.  Sometimes people say sobriety can feel anti- climactic, even boring when chaos has been your norm for decades.  For the long-time convict who is finally free, finding a place to live and a good job when you have a felony on your record is a challenge.  Make no mistake, rebuilding a life or part of a life is hard work.  Rebuilding trust with a spouse you wounded takes time.  Adult children may not forgive your past mistakes quickly even when you are moving forward now.  Perseverance is required.  Famous missionary Elisabeth Elliot was once asked how she moved forward when the tribal people her husband tried to share the gospel with murdered him.  She said, “I did the next right thing.”  That might be comforting her child, or doing the laundry, or making dinner.  Do the next right thing whether it is big or small.  Lay the next stone of simple obedience.  Remarkably she eventually saw her husband’s murderers come to Christ and a village and tribe was transformed.  
      The ruins in your life might feel overwhelming.  Move forward anyway.  It’s time to rebuild!
Pastor Derek Dickinson