Icebreaker
What’s something you have to do in a certain order?
Background
Haggai challenged God’s people to realign their priorities and honor Him by rebuilding the Temple, despite opposition from local leaders and officials. Though this Temple wouldn’t match Solomon’s in splendor, Haggai urged them not to be discouraged. His message reminds us of the struggles they faced, their courageous trust in God, and how God faithfully provided for their needs.
Dig In
Read Ezra 3:10-13.
What was current status of the Temple?
Why were some people celebrating?
Why were some people weeping?
Read Ezra 4:1-5.
Why did the people stop construction?
What types of opposition were they facing?
Read Ezra 5:1-2.
What caused the people to resume construction?
Why do you think this motivated them to restart?
Read Haggai 1:1-10.
In addition to God sending Haggai, how else was God getting their attention?
What was God’s primary issue with them?
What is God calling them to do?
Read Haggai 1:12-15.
How did the people respond?
How did God respond to their response?
Read Haggai 2:1-9.
What is God addressing here?
What is God’s promise to them?
Discussion
What kinds of things keep us from doing what God has Called us to do?
What are some things we do to “panel” our lives today?
Stephen talked about “order matters”—what did he mean?
Why does aligning our priorities with God’s mean so much?
What happens when we’re out of alignment with God’s priorities?
Stephen reintroduced something Andy talked about around New Year’s: Engage Scripture, Enjoy His Presence, and Exercise Your Faith.
How can we engage Scripture?
How can we enjoy His presence?
How can we exercise our faith?
Questions for Personal Reflection
These questions are intended to be read aloud to the group, but not necessarily for group discussion.
Am I seeking God first—or am I paneling my life trying to satisfy what only God can satisfy?
How closely is my life aligned with God?
What’s my next step in engaging Scripture?
What’s my next step in enjoying His presence?
What’s my next step in exercising my faith?