“Is it a time for you yourselves to be living in your paneled houses, while this house remains a ruin?”
Haggai 1:4

Are you really putting God first?

I know nobody likes to truly admit that they have God on the back burner, but it is often true more times than not.

Haggai saw this taking place within the people of God after he returned them from exile. It had been almost 14 years, and they spent all their time and resources rebuilding houses for themselves.

But let's empathize for a moment. These are the same people that waited in captivity for almost 70 years for God to deliver them. It is very conceivable that many lost faith.

I can see how it could be hard to rely on God after you feel like He's turned a blind eye for so long.

Haven't we all been in a place of continual pursuit of God without receiving the answer (or provision) we desperately seek Him for?

Don't be deceived. Anything gained out of order is no gain at all.

Later in the scripture, Haggai talks about how they have provided for themselves in all ways possible, yet still lack. No matter what they did, it simply wasn't enough.

That is what operating in your own strength will result in every time...never enough.

God is calling us to build His house first, spread His Word first, live upright to Him first. Then He'll bless all that comes after.

You will go from paycheck-to-paycheck to highly profitable.

Somehow, with the same amount, you're able to do more.

This is what happens when we put God in His proper position.

First.

"Lord, I'm sorry. For taking matters into my own hands to appease my own fear and doubt. I'll admit, it's hard waiting on you at times. I love you so much. Lord help my unbelief! I want to be stronger in my faith and patience. Therefore, I know you will grant it. From now on, I will focus on my relationship with you and obedience to you first. Everything else will fall into place better than if I attempted to do it myself. I believe in Jesus name, Amen."