How can Haggai 2:1 inspire us to listen for God's voice today? A Timely Word from God Haggai 2:1: “On the twenty-first day of the seventh month, the word of the LORD came through Haggai the prophet, saying:” • A specific day, a specific month, a specific messenger—Scripture records the moment with precision, underscoring that God truly spoke and His words were not vague impressions. • The verse reminds us that God chooses real points in human history to break into our lives. He is not silent or distant. God Still Speaks on His Calendar • The “twenty-first day of the seventh month” shows that God had an appointment with His people; He still sets appointments with us (Psalm 31:15). • He alone initiates; we respond. Just as Israel gathered for the Feast of Tabernacles in that month, God often speaks when His people assemble to honor Him (Hebrews 10:25). Recognizing His Voice in Scripture • The phrase “the word of the LORD came” anchors our confidence that what follows is divine, not human conjecture (2 Peter 1:21). • Today His written Word carries equal authority—“All Scripture is God-breathed” (2 Timothy 3:16). • As we open the Bible, we position ourselves where God has already promised to speak (John 10:27). Hearing Through God’s Servants • God used Haggai; He still uses called messengers—pastors, teachers, faithful friends—to relay His Word (Ephesians 4:11-12). • Testing every message against Scripture safeguards us from error (Acts 17:11). Cultivating a Listening Heart Today Practical steps drawn from Haggai 2:1: 1. Mark intentional times to meet with God—set calendar reminders for unhurried Bible reading. 2. Approach those moments expecting God to speak; He did then, He will now (Jeremiah 33:3). 3. Note what He says—journal dates and verses, just as Haggai dated God’s word. 4. Share and confirm His guidance within the church community; God often speaks collectively (Matthew 18:20). 5. Obey promptly; the clarity of God’s voice grows as we respond in faith (James 1:22-25). Key Takeaways • God’s voice is precise and trustworthy. • He speaks through His living, written Word and His appointed servants. • Setting dedicated times, listening expectantly, and acting obediently enable us to hear Him today, just as Haggai and his generation did. |
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