Haggai was written to motivate the returning remnant to build the temple. They had left their captivity, started the work of rebuilding the temple and then stopped. The prophet becomes a motivtional speaker and gives them the ideas behind the motiviation they will need to complete their assignment. Note four motivational tools Haggai uses to get them back to the work:
1. We can become motivated by changing our Priorities: God's work takes priority over our creature comforts. God puts Himself and our worship of Him before our own creature comforts. (1:2-15)
2. We can become motivated by moving past the Present: The future provides motivation for the present work. God expects believers to work today because of what He promises tomorrow (2:1-9)
3. We can become motivated by striving for personal Purity: God's blessing is awaiting those who strive for personal holiness (2:10-19) Sin is easier transmitted than holiness. Holiness takes God’s intervention. Hope motivates us to holiness - 1 John 3:3
4. We can become motivated by believing in God’s Providence: God is working in leadership in the nations and will place His servants in final positions of rule (2:20-23)
God knows the human nature. He created it and He watched it fall into depravity. He knows how to motivate it. When you think that you are out of steam and can't go on, Haggai is the proper book to read to get our fire back.
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