Scripture: Haggai 2:4–5, NIV
“’But now be strong, Zerubbabel,’ declares the Lord. ‘Be strong, Joshua son of Jozadak, the high priest. Be strong, all you people of the land,’ declares the Lord, ‘and work. For I am with you,’ declares the Lord Almighty. ‘This is what I covenanted with you when you came out of Egypt. And my Spirit remains among you. Do not fear.’” (Haggai 2:4–5, NIV)
Opportunity is one of the greatest blessings that can be given to a person. Whenever we have opportunity to do something that advances the kingdom of God, we want to take advantage of it. Sometimes we have only one opportunity to do something. We never know if the same opportunity will come by again.
The Lord tells us to be strong and to work, for he is with us in our endeavors. His Spirit gives us the capacity, the talent, and the treasure, if needed, to accomplish his purposes.
We do not want to miss out on opportunities he offers – opportunities such as bringing glory to his name, blessing in this world, reward in eternity, and a life that will echo into eternity. Times may be difficult now, but blessing awaits believers who harmonize our lives with the will of God.
A major stimulant motivates us to work:
“In just a little while, he who is coming will come and will not delay.” (Hebrews 10:37, NIV)
The return of Jesus Christ to take his people to himself may happen at any time. Also, we are aware our time bubble can pop, landing us in the “eternal paradigm” at any moment.
Working for the Lord is one of the main avenues for us to access the “bread of life.” As believers, we are drawn to the Lord:
“My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When can I go and meet with God?” (Psalm 42:2, NIV)
“They said to him, ‘Sir, give us this bread always’ Jesus said to them, ‘I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst.’” (John 6:34–35, ESV)
Working for the Lord brings us into his presence. “For with you is the fountain of life; in your light do we see light.” (Psalm 36:9, ESV)
Today, ask yourself:
Am I taking advantage of the opportunities God is giving me to help advance his kingdom? How does knowing that Jesus’s return is imminent motivate me?
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