“Now therefore, thus says the Lord of hosts, “Consider your ways!” (v.7)
Haggai was the first prophet to speak to Israel after the people returned from exile in Babylon. the rebuilding of the temple in Jerusalem was high on God’s priority list. And through the prophet Haggai this work would begin. But, after a good start on the temple, the exiles became preoccupied with building their own houses, and work on the temple stopped for about fifteen years.
This was not what God intended. The temple was central to Israel’s worship, the place where God came to live among His people. By neglecting to complete its construction the people were reflecting a deep problem of spiritual apathy, to say nothing of disobedience. The real problem was that they were too busy increasing their own comfort—building and living in their own "paneled houses" (1:4)—to give any time or effort to constructing the house of God.
Haggai then spoke to all the people, condemning their spiritual indifference and self–centeredness. Their present circumstances revealed that God was not blessing such actions (v. 6): Harvests were small. There were shortages of food and clothing. They were unable to save money and inflation was a problem. They were living hand–to–mouth—it was as though their purses had holes in the bottom! So through the prophet Haggai, God told them, "Consider your ways!"
They needed to put God first and gather building supplies for the new temple (v. 8). Once they straightened out their priorities, He would bless the work of their hands (vv. 9–11).
Similarly God wants us also to give careful thought to our actions, our words, and our relationships, and make decisions that bring glory to Him. Therefore, whatever you do each day, give it careful thought and "consider your ways."
The Truth: “But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.’ (Matthew 6:33)
