2 This is what the Lord Almighty says: “These people say, ‘The time has not yet come to rebuild the Lord’s house.’ ” – Haggai 1:2 (NIV)
“In a minute.”
“I’ll take care of it later.”
“Don’t worry, I’ll get it.”
If you’ve ever been a parent – or even a babysitter – you’ve undoubtedly heard these phrases come from the children you’ve asked to accomplish something. And let’s be honest…how many times did it actually get done? I mean, without you having to continually ask or threaten with grounding or death.
Procrastination. It’s really a delayed obedience. But is it just that? If you’ve ever been on the receiving end of someone’s procrastination you know it’s not just a delayed obedience, but instead is an act of disobedience.
God is speaking to the remnant of people who returned to Judah after being exiled because their disobedience has caused all kinds of issues. The Temple isn’t finished being rebuilt, so everyone’s worship is impacted. The Temple not being rebuilt signifies to the neighboring nations and ruling empire that the God the Jews claim as theirs isn’t really that spectacular or powerful. The Temple still not being finished, and the apparent lack of concern about it, clearly makes a statement that God is not loved by the people with all of their heart, soul, mind, and strength.
What is the procrastination in your life signifying?
What disobedience in your life do you need to ask forgiveness for and repent of?
What can you intentionally accomplish right now that you’ve been putting off for a more convenient time that will show the Lord your God just how loved He really is?