Haggai

Open Your Bible

Haggai 2:1-9, 1 Corinthians 3:8-17, 2 Corinthians 4:1-6, 2 Corinthians 4:16-18, Ephesians 2:19-22

This is the last week of This Is the Old Testament! Next week, we’ll continue our thematic overview of the entire Bible with This Is The New Testament. Each day we’ll read a thematic selection from a different book or two of the Bible, along with supplemental passages that show how the theme of that day’s main reading is found throughout Scripture. We’ll also read a brief summary of each book and a reflection on how the book fits into the larger story of Scripture. 

The Book of Haggai: The book of Haggai contains a plea from the prophet to the 43,000 Jewish pilgrims returning to Jerusalem from exile. He called them to continue rebuilding the temple and examine the ways they were living their lives as God’s people. 

How Haggai Fits Into the Story: Haggai admonished the Jewish people living in Jerusalem after the exile, urging them to choose God over what made them comfortable. Their response to this challenge would be reflected in their work on the temple. In the New Testament, Jesus echoed Haggai’s message when He said, “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be provided for you” (Mt 6:33).

Reflection Questions: 
1. Is there a specific way God may be calling you to step outside your comfort zone in order to serve others? If so, how? 
2. How does today’s reading shape your understanding of the story of redemption?

Take time to reflect on your responses and share what you are learning with others in the community in the comments.

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127 thoughts on "Haggai"

  1. Tina Johnson says:

    ❤️

  2. Ellie Hines says:

    God has been getting me out of comfort zone by putting me out there into the word to preach the living hope of Jesus and not to care what others say or think about me. I think God has called me to minister towards others who are broken and who really need Jesus in their life. Jesus is the true definition of redemption by Him dying on the cross for our sins and redeeming what is dead and bringing it back to life!!

    1. Tina says:

      ❤️

  3. Lanie H says:

    I’ve been sitting on this one all day. the podcast really help me sift my thoughts, but I had a dream last night that I was in my church, and first they had me in cyber security meeting and I was like am I am the worst equiped for this role why am I here, then I looked at the floor and it was filthy, and I started sweeping but I looked to my left and there was a guy there with a huge vacuum, and so I said this is useless he is more equipped, and so I started mopping but I had a small old fashion mop, but it was way too small and I felt like I wasnt doing anything, and a man walked up to me and said we already mopped so I stopped. and I woke up just really discouraged. then I read haggai. and listened to the podcast and it says work. even if its destined for disaster. my highly efficient, productive healthcare worker first child is having a hard time sitting with that one..

  4. Mercy says:

    Reflection Questions:
    1. Is there a specific way God may be calling you to step outside your comfort zone in order to serve others? If so, how? God has often used unexpected ways to stretch me and build my courage. I used to be very shy, but when a previous pastor asked me to lead worship, lead prayers, and emcee, I said yes despite the nerves. I am so glad I did. God also nudged me to connect with neighborhood moms who kept crossing my path at the park and the grocery store, which led me to prepare Christmas gift bags for their families. Lately, I feel called to an even bigger leap of faith, one that feels risky because it involves quitting my full-time job (which I love). It’s a heavy decision, especially right now. My husband is walking through a challenging season of doubt, fear, and spiritual battle, and I worry how this transition might affect him. But God. I know He works through broken vessels. My focus now is to renew my mind, build a practical plan, and step into this new system with faith.
    .
    2. How does today’s reading shape your understanding of the story of redemption? The closer we draw to redemption, the further we move away from bondage. There is a cost to stagnation. Comfort can be a dangerous form of bondage that keeps us in a cage. It can hinder redemption and growth. There are hard times I would ask why am I doing this? But I have to move forth. I have to keep the momentum going, and the consistency of showing up. There is a quote that says, “He who has a why to live for can bear almost any how”. The Lord’s wisdom is unsearchable, but I know He shares secrets with those who fear Him (Psalm 25:14). He will let us know the why, and the how. May we turn down the noise to hear the Still Small Voice.
    .
    Prayers lifted up
    TERESA DONLEY- praying for your courage to step out, and to find a good home church. How is your knee healing up?
    MARGARET W- grace to overcome the work challenges and a lot of joy to be your strength
    SEARCHING- for your friend’s dad, oh my goodness.
    KAYLA BOSTWICK, MARINA, MARI V- job opportunities and provision for your loved ones, and families.
    SHARON JG- prayers for your in-laws to receive Jesus and healing for FIL, and for ADRIENNE’s mom to receive Jesus. May their hearts resist no more.
    RHONDA- strength, wisdom for words, love, support for your family.
    .
    Be blessed dear sisters.

    1. AZ Walker says:

      Praying for your big job decision and your husband’s well being. Thank you for sharing your heart here every day dear Mercy.

    2. Teresa Cooper Donley says:

      Mercy, thank you for your prayers. My knee was doing well until today, when my dog jumped into my lap and tore one of the incisions open with his nail. I’m hoping it heals with some neosporin and a band-aid. ❤️

    3. Adrienne says:

      Thank you so much, Mercy. ❤️

    4. Tina says:

      Mercy, whooa, that is a BIG decision, joining you in prayer for God to reveal more to you, so as to be able to make the right decision.,
      God be with you.
      Sorry, i didnt respond to your Cassie question, i had to take my dog in for emergency surgery, she is doing well, but in answer to your question yes she is, beautiful turned her life around Cassie..❤️

  5. Teresa Cooper Donley says:

    Question 1 hit me where I’m living right now. I worked as a chaplain for hospice and in hospitals until I retired at age 62 due to health reasons. Since then, I’ve been a bump on a log. Literally. I rarely go anywhere other than doctor appointments, stay at home and read all day long. Since moving here seven years ago, we have visited several churches, but have not found a church home and are not active in any church. I feel like God called me to chaplaincy to minister to hurting people. I prepared for that calling through education, clinical pastoral education and residency, ordination and endorsement. Then, when I got sick and retired, I stopped doing anything. Recently, I’ve been talking to my therapist about feeling so far away from God (and I’m well aware of who moved). Today reminded me that God may be calling me to step out of my comfort zone and use some of my talents, education and calling to serve others. Maybe that’s in a church. Maybe it’s as a volunteer at a hospice or hospital or nursing home. I’m 69 years old now. I have health issues, including that pesky Alzheimer’s diagnosis. But Since learning a few months ago that the physiology in my brain of Alzheimer’s has not led to dementia. and may not do so, maybe God isn’t finished with me yet. Maybe He wants me to step out of my comfort zone and actually serve Him by serving others. As always, prayers welcome.

    1. AZ Walker says:

      I pray for you often since you shared your medical diagnosis dear Teresa. I am hopeful and praying that God will lead you to do something beautiful for others with your mind no matter what the diagnosis says.

      1. Teresa Cooper Donley says:

        Thank you so much.

    2. Tina says:

      Theresa, you hold a secure place in my praying heart. We used to have a vicar who always said at the end of a service, addressing staff, mainly but i reckon it was for all, “.. if you have a hand at the end of your arm, you can pray for others..” I think, as long as you have breathe, you can do what you are called to do, trust HIM..❤️

    3. DW says:

      Praying for Gos to open the right doors for you to use your giftings.

    4. Dee'Anna M says:

      I’ve been wondering why, for the last almost 2 weeks, I keep hearing the message about God not being done with us until he is does with us. I have heard & read this in multiple platforms recently. I wondered why God kept showing me this, I think it was for you!!! God used Moses to lead the Israelites at 80, Caleb at 85 was asked to conquer, Abraham & Sarah, Zechariah & Elizabethton conceived John the babtist in their old age. Age has never been a barrier to God’s calling! Praying for you on this journey sweet sister!

  6. Margaret W. says:

    I do believe that I have been called to work on a hotline for immigrants who have questions about their legal rights and the services available to them. I have worked with this organization in other capacities for eight months now, and I’m almost done with the hotline training, but the last few weeks I’ve really been exhausted and have had trouble finding the time to finish it up. I’m a wee bit intimidated by talking on the phone in Spanish, but much more so by the different technologies I will have to work with. I know that with God’s help, I can do what he calls me to, but I’m also wondering if he is calling me to slow down and wait for a bit, at least until one of my daughters goes back to college. This summer has been so exhausting, but I have also been chronically exhausted since my knee replacement 18-20 months ago. It’s just hard to figure out how much to pace myself and how much to push myself. Please pray for wisdom and guidance for me around these and other matters that I’m trying to find balance with in my life.
    And Rhonda, praying for your words tomorrow to be words of grace. I know they will be.

    1. Teresa Cooper Donley says:

      Margaret, I think that sounds like a wonderful way to serve others. I will pray with you that God will bring discernment as to how or when He wants you to move forward, and to heal this exhaustion you’ve been feeling.

    2. AZ Walker says:

      Praying dear Margaret that God will give you rest and direction on how to serve others in need.

    3. Tina says:

      Margsret, listen, even GOD rested! Rest is important, to be rejuvenated, rewired, rewatered, repurposed, reset, its important to rest, to find again the purpose of your calling..
      I pray you do, hugs.❤️

  7. Erica Chiarelli says:

    God has been calling me these past few years to be way outside my comfort zone in multiple ways to serve His people at my church.
    I’ve been learning and growing so much, praise the Lord!

  8. Searching says:

    Prayer request for a friend’s dad who is non responsive after a fall yesterday.

    1. Cee Gee says:

      Oh, SEARCHING, Iam so sorry! Praying right now! ❤❤❤

    2. Teresa Cooper Donley says:

      Praying now for your friend’s dad ❤️

    3. AZ Walker says:

      Praying for friend’s Dad dear Seaching.

    4. Tina says:

      Searching, late to the table, but joining in prayers for your friends dad..❤️

  9. Adrienne says:

    Be strong and don’t give up. That is something I should remind myself of each day!

    1. Tina says:

      ❤️

  10. Sharon Jersey Girl says:

    As I read 2 Corinthians 4:3-4, I think of Jeff’s parents. My father in-law will be 87 in Sept. my mother in-law will be the same in Dec. They have both been given the gospel numerous times. Two years ago my FIL almost died, he was on life support, and yet – he miraculously recovered! At that time we once again had opportunity to share the gospel. God had literally snatched him from the edge of death and let him live…and yet, he still has not received Christ. My MIL is a very sweet person, but she too, fails to understand her need for a Savior. The god of this age has blinded their minds so that they can not see the light of the gospel that displays the glory of Christ.
    My FIL fell on Sunday night and fractured his pelvis. He is getting older every day, the day is at hand – the time is short and they are not saved.
    Please pray for my FIL Al and MIL Phyllis, for his recovery and for both of them – salvation.

    Fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary – all of our materiel earthly possessions – but what is unseen is eternal – our salvation and our home in glory! Amen!

    @Kimberly Z – prayers for your friends sister to overcome her addiction to alcohol.
    @Mari V – continued prayers for your Alyssa and Caleb. Did either of them get the jobs they interviewed for?
    @Rhonda – continued prayers for you, your family and that God will give you the exact words He wants you to say on Friday. ❤️

    Happy Wednesday She’s. Praising God for life and breathe today!

    1. Adrienne says:

      My mom is in that boat with your in-laws. It is a sad situation, yet He can save them. I hope your in-laws and my mom see Jesus for who He is and what He has done. ❤️

      1. Searching says:

        Praying for your mom’s salvation ❤️

    2. Searching says:

      Praying for Al & Phyllis, for their minds and hearts to be opened to the truth of Jesus. And praying for Al’s recovery!

    3. Teresa Cooper Donley says:

      Sharon, I’m praying for Al and Phyllis to believe and accept Jesus into their hearts. For the scales to be lifted from their hearts and eyes, and for them to see not only their need for Jesus, but His amazing love and grace for them. Praying, too,too,for Al’s recovery.

    4. Cee Gee says:

      Praying for Al and Phyllis (and ADRIENNE’S mom to accelt Jesus as Savior before jt’s too late. ❤

    5. AZ Walker says:

      Praying for Al and Phylis dear Sharon. I have this situation going on with many family members too. I try to be a positive light around them, it’s tough. I was listening to a podcast today about how God cares about our spiritual healing first before our physical healing.

    6. Tina says:

      Fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary – all of our materiel earthly possessions – but what is unseen is eternal – our salvation and our home in glory! Amen!

      Perfect!
      Will be holding Al and Phyllis up in prayer.. ❤️

  11. Mari V says:

    1. YES, it may not be relatable, but here goes. As I mentioned my son Caleb has been unemployed since Jan 1st. Thank you for praying for him during this season and thank you for praying for him yesterday as he had a background interview for this job that is taking a long time. I feel God is calling me to have another conversation (not nag) with him as he has also sought other employment in case this one does not work out. HOWEVER, I feel that the job here in town, is the better one as they are going through extensive detail to make sure they higher the right one. I want to encourage to hold off with the other job until he hears from this one. He’s getting tired and frustrated and I can’t blame him! The job here in town is “more” stable. Please pray for the right words. I will say what I need to say and let it go. Please pray for the right words.

    2. Either way my God will be glorified. AND as a mama of now two adult children. I place my trust in HIM who knows it all!

    Happy Wednesday sweeties!

    1. Sharon Jersey Girl says:

      Praying God will give you just the right words that Caleb needs to hear, and that he will listen. ❤️

    2. Adrienne says:

      It is difficult to parent young adults, for sure!

    3. Teresa Cooper Donley says:

      Praying for God’s guidance for Caleb in the search for the job God is guiding him to. And praying for you in knowing how to talk with him. I agree with Adrienne – it is very difficult to parent adult children. ❤️

    4. Cee Gee says:

      ❤ praying!

    5. Tina says:

      Praying you have the words for Caleb to ‘hear’, but if not, GOD will find a way, to bring him to where he needs to be.. give this to GOD, Mari, Trust Him, it is well..❤️

  12. Cheryl Blow says:

    Shake the heavens stood out to me as well! I think we see God’s character in the reading today. He is just and there will be a day of judgment but He also tells us to take courage,

    1. Cee Gee says:

  13. Tanya Evans says:

    1. Question 1: This year they needed a co-leader of our community group. I was interested and five minutes after I prayedd about it in the chapel I ran into a woman who just randomly said,” I think you would be a great leader of our group”. I felt that was a confirmation. Trust me I prefer being one of the participants.

    2. God has redeemed us for a purpose. We are redeemed to establish his kingdom on earth. Adam in the garden had a work to do and so do we. Adam was to tend the garden. God redeemed the Isarelites from Egypt to be a “light to the nations” and to worship Him. Redemption has a purpose>

    1. Rhonda J. says:

      Most would prefer to be participants…but God wants more of us to take action! You will grow in profound ways just by leading (or facilitating!)! Praying you step on in that you would love to do it!

  14. Adrianne says:

    Reflection Questions:
    1. Is there a specific way God may be calling you to step outside your comfort zone in order to serve others? Sometimes. If so, how? Discussions/questions between friends and family.
    2. How does today’s reading shape your understanding of the story of redemption?
    Such a relief to that this world is temporary and we will find our eternal rest in our God.

  15. Tami says:

    Q1 is so timely. I invited a small group of women that I got to know during our missions trip to Honduras to do a Bible study and we start this Friday. We are going to be doing “Jesus and Women” by Kristi McClelland. (Highly recommended!) We have had to push the date back a few times, and I even considered cancelling because it is making me nervous. The Lord is asking me to step out of my comfort zone I guess.
    Today is the one year anniversary of my brother’s passing and we will all get together to celebrate his life with my nieces today.

    1. Jane K says:

      Praying, Tami, that God gives you peace as you remember and honor your brother on this first anniversary of his death. Also prayers for confidence and boldness as you lead the study with these women.

    2. Cheryl Blow says:

      Praying for you Tami as you start this Bible study with no more delays and you start!

    3. Erin Elizabeth says:

      Praying for you, Tami. I’m in the middle of that study with a group of women. May it be a blessing to each of you.

    4. Adrienne says:

      Prayers for you, Tami. Two hard things indeed. ❤️❤️

    5. Searching says:

      Praying for the group and for your remembrance time with your nieces.

    6. Cee Gee says:

      You will do great with the study, Tami! Prayers for your family on this sad anniversary and that many sweet memories shared will bring gladness, too! ❤

    7. Nicole Burke says:

      Praying for you Tami! ❤️

    8. Rhonda J. says:

      A year already…does not seem like it! I think of your two nieces often, and pray they are doing good.
      Don’t cancel group…the devil loves doing that to us!! I just left a message for Tanya that it is so good for us to step up and lead groups…!! We that are in the word everyday, need to do more with groups, making sure that other women join a group and keep their fire for Jesus! We are all too busy, distracted, and many others reasons (excuses,lol). We all make time for what we deem important, but that becomes idols.

    9. Teresa Cooper Donley says:

      Tami, I’m praying for peace and comfort as you honor and remember your brother today. And that all goes well with the Bible study beginning with no further delays. Praying for God to bless you and the participants as you lead. ❤️

    10. Mercy says:

      Praying TAMI. Wow look at you stepping out big time.

    11. Tina says:

      Tami, holding you close in prayers as I pray, you remember your brother in happier times. Try not to dwell on the last days but the person who made you smile, I’m sure played pranks on you as children, remember him well, thinking of you dear Tami..❤️

    12. Tina says:

      Tami, holding you close in prayers as I pray, you remember your brother in happier times. Try not to dwell on the last days but the person who made you smile, I’m sure played pranks on you as children, remember him well, thinking of you dear Tami..❤️

    13. Wendy B says:

      May the Lords tender comfort be near❤️

  16. Cee Gee says:

    This morning the reference to God saying He would “shake the heavens,” etc., caught my interest. We have seen that recently so I went to Bible Gateway and typed it in the search box. In the New Living Translation there were 2 references in Isaiah, 1 in Joel, 2 in Haggai, 1 in: Matthew, Mark, Luke, and Hebrews- 9 total. Sharing results here:
    .
    Isaiah 13:13-
    For I will shake the heavens. The earth will move from its place when the Lord of Heaven’s Armies displays his wrath in the day of his fierce anger.”
    .
    Isaiah 24:18-
    Those who flee in terror will fall into a trap, and those who escape the trap will be caught in a snare. Destruction falls like rain from the heavens; the foundations of the earth shake.
    .
    Joel 3:16-
    The Lord’s voice will roar from Zion and thunder from Jerusalem, and the heavens and the earth will shake. But the Lord will be a refuge for his people, a strong fortress for the people of Israel.
    .
    Haggai 2:6-
    For this is what the Lord of Heaven’s Armies says: In just a little while I will again shake the heavens and the earth, the oceans and the dry land.
    .
    Haggai 2:21-
    Tell Zerubbabel, the governor of Judah, that I am about to shake the heavens and the earth.
    .
    Matthew 24:29-
    Immediately after the anguish of those days, the sun will be darkened, the moon will give no light, the stars will fall from the sky, and the powers in the heavens will be shaken.
    .
    Mark 13:25-
    the stars will fall from the sky, and the powers in the heavens will be shaken.
    .
    Luke 21:26-
    People will be terrified at what they see coming upon the earth, for the powers in the heavens will be shaken.
    .
    Hebrews 12:26-
    When God spoke from Mount Sinai his voice shook the earth, but now he makes another promise: “Once again I will shake not only the earth but the heavens also.”
    .
    I know that is not the focus today; just my inqiring mind begging to be satisfied!
    .
    SONG SHARE:
    Mike Donehey, Steven Curtis Chapman, Mark Hall, Mandisa – Jesus, Firm Foundation
    Partial lyrucs:
    How firm our foundation
    How sure our salavation
    We will not be shaken
    Jesus, our foundation
    .
    Love, hugs, and prayers! ❤
    RHONDA J- Much love, hugs, and prayers for strength and guidance. ❤❤❤

    1. Jane K says:

      I like your inquiring mind, Cee Gee! Thanks for digging in. I’m so thankful that God is our strong foundation, our Rock, and our Refuge.

      1. Cee Gee says:

        ☺☺☺ ❤

      2. Teresa Cooper Donley says:

        Me, too! ❤️

      3. Tina says:

        ❤️

    2. Shar says:

      Thanks for sharing this! What an interesting theme to explore on shaking the heavens.

      1. Cee Gee says:

        ☺☺☺❤

    3. Searching says:

      Thanks! ❤️

      1. Cee Gee says:

        ☺☺☺ ❤

  17. Lisa A says:

    Haggai challenged me to think about the ways God may be calling me beyond what feels comfortable or familiar. For me, that has looked like stepping out in faith to gather women for community and fellowship through things like Jesus & Jammies at my house. It isn’t always in my comfort zone, but I feel God continuing to nudge me toward creating spaces where women can connect, encourage one another, and grow in their faith together.
    Today’s reading also shaped my understanding of redemption by reminding me that God invites His people to participate in His work of restoration. The rebuilding of the temple points to the greater restoration we have through Christ and His desire to dwell with His people.

    1. Cee Gee says:

      Jesus and Jammies! What a cool idea! ❤

    2. Rhonda J. says:

      I love that…that would be my ideal group…Jesus and Jammies (but in my own house and people come to me!! lol) DO IT!

      I have mentioned it many times here but the book “When Women Say YES to God” by Lysa Terkyst! So good! Lights a fire to ask every day “what do you have for me Lord!)

  18. Rhonda J. says:

    What great readings today, and my favorite 2 Corinthians 4:17 was there (just in God’s timing!) B/c I was thinking of using this one at the Service Friday. I said it at the service for my friend and co-leader just a few weeks ago. We WILL have, have had, am having so many hard times, afflictions, conflicts, sicknesses..struggles, dark times. That’s why to me, the old testament gives us such courage to see these issues in all the great names throughout. So why are we so surprised? The rain falls on the just and unjust! Oh how fun it would be if those bad things only fell on unbelievers! Yes..wouldn’t that be great…
    No, because we all were once, and we have so many loved ones that are still lost. And my heart now even hurts for the lost I don’t like.
    The pits, fires, lion’s dens, storms, and giant’s are all there to give us a chance to look beyond ourselves for help. He lets all things happen for purpose. Turning our eyes to a Savior, help, and growth. And mainly to long for our heavenly home.

    We are doing okay here at my sisters, we are tired from all things to prepare for the service. You know how it is for us, the women, that do it all, lol. We have some littles here, and a new baby (that I especially love holding as much as possible!).

    Let us be THE light Lord. Let our strength and faith IN YOU give others a longing for it as well. Let us be the hands and feet for you, active and willing. Help all of us She’s speak your word and truth. Let us be there for the ones struggling, searching, and lost…that YOU are here. All things are working for good, for those that love you, and called to your greater purpose. Help us to know that with all our might…never losing focus of that. amen.

    I have been here everyday…and your comments have been so good over the last week…I want to use them all in my “reflection” on Friday!lol Sort it all out Lord in my head…exactly what you have for me to share.

    1. Wendy B says:

      Praying for you Rhonda. May the Lord’s comfort, strength and courage meet you and your family in every moment ❤️

    2. Tami says:

      Praying for you Rhonda – the Lord is going to use you in a mighty way for such a time as this…

      1. Tina says:

        Amen!❤️

    3. Mari V says:

      We love you sweet lady!

    4. Cheryl Blow says:

      Praying, Rhonda

    5. Jane K says:

      Keeping you in my prayers, Rhonda, as you prepare for the service and love on those around you.

    6. Sharon Jersey Girl says:

      Continued prayers for you Rhonda, especially for Friday.
      “God is our refuge and strength,
      an ever-present help in trouble.” Psalm 46:1 ❤️

    7. Shar says:

      Praying for you and your family, Rhonda. May the Lord give you the words He wants you you say and may he comfort you all.

    8. Adrienne says:

      Dear, sweet Rhonda. You and your family have been and will continue to be lifted up, up, up! ❤️

    9. Searching says:

      Continuing to pray, Rhonda, for the Lord to guide your words and hearts to be changed. ❤️

    10. Cee Gee says:

      Great post, Rhonda! Thank you for taking time away from your family duties ti share your heart. Cintinued orayers for strength fir the days ahead esoecialky Friday, and for God to gives you just the right words of munistry and in your eulogy. Prayers for the needy hearts to turn to God.

    11. Nicole Burke says:

      Continued prayers Rhonda! ❤️

    12. Lisa H says:

      Continued prayers!

    13. AZ Walker says:

      Continued prayers for you and your family dear Rhonda. Thank you for all your share with us!

    14. Teresa Cooper Donley says:

      Continuing to pray for you and your family, Rhonda. And for God’s Words to flow through you on Friday. ❤️

    15. Tina says:

      I’d love to give you a hug right now, sweet Rhonda, but i know and pray GODS hugs are reaching just the right spots, and are plentiful, so you can share them with family, as and when.
      Rhonda, i continue to hold you close in prayer, prayerful today is filled with His grace, love, comforting arms, and wisdom. Praying also for His power to fill you as you prepare for Friday, that His words of love leave your mouth and fall on those to hear them, He is walking with you, dear wonderful woman of GOD, He is near..
      love,
      Tina x❤️

  19. Melanie says:

    Please pray for my healing and the restoration of our relationship with our oldest.

    1. Tami says:

      Praying Melanie for both!

    2. Mari V says:

      Praying for you Melanie.

    3. Sharon Jersey Girl says:

      Praying Melanie.❤️

    4. Searching says:

      Praying for both of you ❤️

    5. Cee Gee says:

    6. Teresa Cooper Donley says:

      Praying for your healing, Melanie, and for restoration of your relationship with your child. ❤️

  20. LaRae Taylor says:

    ❤️

  21. Aimee D says:

    Amen

  22. Searching says:

    Sharing a few verses that got my attention:
    2 Corinthians 4:6
    6 For it is the God who commanded light to shine out of darkness, who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.
    .
    Ephesians 2:20b,21-22
    20b Jesus Christ Himself being the chief cornerstone, 21 in whom the whole building, being fitted together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord, 22 in whom you also are being built together for a dwelling place of God in the Spirit.
    .
    The time is now, sisters. God’s expectations are real, let’s draw close, working for and following Him.
    .
    KIMBERLY Z -praying for your friend and her sister, for freedom from addiction, restoration of her mental health, protection of family.
    MERCY ❤️
    CHERYL BLOW ❤️
    MARI V ❤️ praying for Caleb
    WENDY B praying for this person who stole, and for this ministry. This recount made me so thankful I was raised where we had enough, had what we needed, no excess many times, but enough. And we were taught right from wrong from basically birth, and held to that standard.
    SARAH NELSON praying for your brother’s healing from addiction, restoration of mental health and for you as you pray for the safe way to interact.

    1. Cheryl Blow says:

      Praying over your requests

    2. Cee Gee says:

      Amen ❤

  23. Melissa Lance says:

    This verse really stood out to me today. 2Cor 4:18 “So we do not focus on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.” So ladies I’m 52 going on 53 and I’ve been battling my age hard.

    1. Leanna Thompson says:

      Sending prayers that you will embrace this time of your life.

    2. Sharon Jersey Girl says:

      You are not alone on that Melissa. Prayers for you.❤️

    3. Cee Gee says:

      Girl, you are still young!!! I remember so well when my age dawned on me! I was at the doctor’s office. The staff had put a bracelet with my id, etc., on it on my wrist. I looked down at it and saw the number 52 and thought, ” What’s that number for?” Then I realized that was my age!!! I was so stunned! Now I am 72 and I just finished working in the yard for over 3 hours with only a 10 minute break. Enjoy your 50’s and 60’s! The 70’s do bring a few more challenges, but most can be overcome!

      1. Indiana Elaine says:

        I hear you Cee Gee! I hated turning 70. Now the 80’s have even a few more challenges. I gave up gardening with my back surgery last year. Still working on the walking challenges.

    4. Teresa Cooper Donley says:

      Enjoy this time of your life. Fifties can be wonderful. I guess any time in our lives can be wonderful with God. At 69, I can’t say i look forward to turning 70, but God still loves me, and will until I breathe my last, and then throughout eternity.

  24. Kayla Bostwick says:

    Lord, may I be open to your calling today, knowing your Holy Spirit is at work in me, giving me grace to do your will and reflect the great love with which you’ve loved me!

    1. Laurel W says:

      Good Morning, Kayla!
      Yes, the birthdays add numbers. But, they don’t reflect the YOU that is YOU. Sometimes, birthdays are a good time to reflect on where you are–good, bad–and where you want to be. Let go of the unattainable (for me it was having my own children) and embrace the path you have been given. Haggai reminds us to be strong! And you are. Happy Birthday.

  25. Hannah C says:

    Good morning! Our reading from Haggai stresses the words Be Strong! And in the Bible these words have been connected to reminders for courage! We can pray for this courage to act as He wills and I am praying that for us today! ❤️

    1. Linda in NC says:

      Hannah, I also picked up on be strong and also don’t lose heart. Courage goes with both be strong and do not lose heart. We need each of these characteristics to be all we are called to be in Jesus.

    2. Cee Gee says:

  26. Kelly (NEO) says:

    Today’s reading highlighted to me that God has invited me (us) to take an active role in the story of redemption. He invites us to join Him in building His kingdom.
    .
    May we be faithful.

    1. Danielle B says:

      Kelly, yes I saw that as well. God wants to use us in His redemption work with others. May we see and respond to His call.

      1. Rhonda J. says:

        Yes, can you imagine if we all step up and out just a little more…and really let God use us! I have definitely seen the immense lessons, joy, and beautiful connections that God gives when we step out in action! :)

    2. Laurel W says:

      Amen, Kelly!

    3. Sharon Jersey Girl says:

      Amen! The sermon my husband preached on Sunday – The Parable of The Mustard Seed and The Parable of the Yeast, hit on this very thing. He used a phrase I had not heard before, but describes us as God intends us to be, as His “human agencies”. It is through us that the gospel spreads – just like the tree from the mustard seed, and the yeast in the dough. And that is how His kingdom is built.

    4. Cee Gee says:

    5. Tina says:

      Amen, Kelly,!❤️

  27. Amanda S says:

    Yesterday I felt called to speak to an acquaintance in the grocery store that I used to work with. I got nervous and kept walking. I should have stepped outside my comfort zone and did what the Lord asked. I’m glad his mercies are new every day and that hopefully I’ll get another chance to plant a seed.

    1. Kelly (NEO) says:

      Praying you will have courage to speak.

    2. Karen Swanson says:

      I see myself in your response. Be thankful you at least heard the spirit talking. The next step is to act upon the spirit when it moves. I have made progress in this area but still struggle as well. Peace to you encourage.

    3. Adrienne says:

      I kicked myself over a lost opportunity at the blood center the other day. I get it.

  28. Onyekachi Mavis-Claire Ekeh says:

    ❤️

    1. Laurel W says:

      I enjoy seeing your heart each day!
      I pray all is well with you.

      1. Tina says:

        Thats funny, so do I!
        My thoughts are usually, i wonder where she lives to ‘knock’ me of my spot:)❤️