"Yet now be strong, Zerubbabel," says the Lord; "and be strong, Joshua, son of Jehozadak, the high priest; and be strong, all you people of the land," says the Lord, "and work; for I am with you," says the Lord of host. Haggai 2:4
The Lord said these words when the people of Israel were back in their own land after their captivity in Babylon. During the Babylonian attack in 586 BC, the temple of God had been completely destroyed, so it was time to rebuild. But the job seemed too great, too overwhelming, too impossible… and the people were discouraged and left the job unfinished. Ever been there? Discouraged about the mess your life has become? Unsure and insecure in your relationship with the Lord due to some bad decision you have made, and the adverse circumstances you face as a result of those bad decision? What is the answer?
God says, "Be strong, work, and know that I am with you." The Lord's presence is the key to overcoming discouragement, insecurity, and fear. If you have received Christ as Savior and Lord, you can be assured that He is with you. He promises He "will never leave you nor forsake you" (Hebrews 13:5). Even if you have to walk through the dark valley of the shadow of death, you can be secure and fearless because He is with you every step of the way (Psalm 23:4).
Are you facing tremendous difficulties today? Do you have to start over in business, in restoring your marriage or family relationships, in rebuilding your name in the community? Does the task seem too great? Don't quit! The Lord will be with you as you trust Him! He will give you strength as you roll up your sleeves and get to work on the rebuilding project He has put before you. Be encouraged. There is no need to fear when Jesus is near.*
Lord, I thank You for Your presence in my life. I thank You that You are with me and will see me through every trial and difficulty, even those that are self-inflicted. Give me strength and a will to work on the things in my life that desperately need rebuilding. I praise You that I don't work and walk alone. The God who spoke the world into existence is with me. Wow! Thank You, Lord. In Jesus' name, Amen.
*Jeff Schreve, Texarkana, TX