In 586 BC the Babylonians invaded Israel, took the people captive to Babylon, and destroyed Solomon's Temple in Jerusalem.
Fifty years later some of the people were allowed to return to rebuild their Temple. A short time later the work stopped because of opposition from the Samaritans.
Sixteen years later the prophet Haggai called the people to rebuild the Temple. After a month they became discouraged and wanted to quit, but the Lord encouraged them.
Haggai 2:3-4 Who is left among you that saw this house in her first glory? and how do ye see it now? is it not in your eyes in comparison of it as nothing? Yet now be strong, O Zerubbabel, saith the Lord ; and be strong, O Joshua, son of Josedech, the high priest; and be strong, all ye people of the land, saith the Lord, and work: for I am with you, saith the Lord of hosts:
It wasn't about what they used to have, it was and always has been about the God who dwelled in the Temple.
If we aren’t careful, our discouragements can derail our lives and cause us to lose faith and focus.
It’s not about us. It’s about God and His glory. As believers, we need to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus. Heb. 12:1-2. He is with us - always.
