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Major Truths From Minor Prophets: A Verse Worth Reading

Now this is what the Lord Almighty says, “Give careful thought to your ways”.
Haggai 1:5 and 1:7

The Old Testament prophet, Haggai, repeats today’s verse.  I think God wanted special emphasis to be given to it. It spoke to the Jews as they returned from exile to Jerusalem. Back home from captivity the Jews went about planting their crops, rebuilding their homes, and earning money. They were thinking only of themselves.
God was not happy that they had put off building His house. He sent Haggai to tell them that all they did would be in vain if they did not tend to His temple. It remained a ruin. He wanted to take pleasure in His house and be honored by its rebuilding.

Twice He told them to give careful thought to their ways. I think there is a major lesson for us.
The world tells us that “anything goes.” This message is repeated through our media time and time again. We are considered politically incorrect if we question anything.

This morning I read about a measure adopted by the Los Angeles City Council. It requires actors in adult movies filmed in the city to use protection during sex scenes. I thought I could no longer be shocked. I was.
John tells us, Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them (1 John 2:15). In this case in the world  means anything not of God’s will.

Putting God first is the secret to knowing the right way. Another help in gaining wisdom for living is the Bible. It should be our GPS as we find the correct route to God’s ways. It is chocked full of great truths for doing God’s will.
Seek fellow Christians. Gather together and discuss life and its many choices. Worship in God’s House. You will not only find help in walking with God, but you will experience joy as you share with other believers.

Lastly, stop and think before you act. Is the choice you are about to make in God’s will? Will it please and glorify Him? Take time to evaluate the way you spend your time.  Give careful thought to your ways.
Dear Father, Teach us Your ways and lead us to follow them.

Janice Yandell

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