The sparking of enthusiasm

"So, the Lord sparked the enthusiasm of Zerubbabel son of Shealtiel, governor of Judah, and the enthusiasm of Jeshua son of Jehozadak, the high priest, and the enthusiasm of the whole remnant of God’s people. They began to work on the house of their God, the Lord of Heaven’s Armies..." - Haggai 1:14

Zerubbabel is mentioned as the son of Shealtiel in a number of places in the Bible (see Matthew 1:12) and we note that he was filled with the Spirit and began to restore the house of the Lord, when the people returned from exile. The verse (above) mentions that the Lord 'sparked his enthusiasm' and this led to him doing remarkable things.

We can use different words to describe something similar: 

our hearts being strangely warmed;
filled with the Spirit;
prompted by the Lord.

But they all imply the same thing. God does something in our hearts and spirits, that leads to a changed life.

May we all encounter the renewal of our spirits this Christmas time and may we be 'sparked with enthusiasm' for the things of the Lord. I know that many of us feel as if we truly need it. 

Living in Grace

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"After the Babylonian exile: Jehoiachin was the father of Shealtiel. Shealtiel was the father of Zerubbabel." - Matthew 1:12

What's your catch phrase?

Many of us have a little phrase or a few words, that have become our catchphrase. We are known by these words and often people even associate us with the message behind these words. In the Bible, it could be argued that Isaiah was known for his "do not fear" mantra, and one just needs to read a few verses to confirm the truth behind this: Isaiah 7:4, Isaiah 35:4 and Isaiah 40:9. 

Another Old Testament prophet was well known for his "take courage" catchphrase. Haggai used this sentiment a number of times in the short book, of the same name.

"Yet now take courage, O Zerubbabel, says the Lord; take courage, O Joshua, son of Jehozadak, the high priest; take courage, all you people of the land, says the Lord; work, for I am with you, says the Lord of hosts." - Haggai 2:4-5 (NRSV)

Thoughts:

1. Do you have a catchphrase?

2. What do the words of Haggai stir up inside of you today?

Living in Grace

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3 Promises in one verse

"This is what I covenanted with you when you came out of Egypt. And my Spirit remains among you. Do not fear." - Haggai 2:5

The prophet Haggai gives us 3 reasons to celebrate this morning:

1. God has made a covenant with us.
2. His Spirit remains among us...always.
3. We don't need to fear!

May these words bring you encouragement and peace this morning. Our King is glorious.

Living in Grace

D3LM3