Gunk and Crud

“Thus, saith the Lord of Hosts, ‘Consider your ways.’” (Haggai 1:7)

Periodic inspections and proper maintenance are necessary safety precautions for wood-burning fireplaces. Fissures in the bricks allow seepage of smoke, and built-up soot in the chimney can be hazardous. Sometimes you need a chimney sweep.

The prophet Haggai rebuked God‘s people, particularly the governor among the people of Judah, and the high priest, telling them to consider their ways that led to a drought causing poor harvests. God would honor none of their efforts to prosper because of their negligence in rebuilding the temple while they sat comfortably in their reestablished homes. After hearing the message, they acknowledged God’s voice through His prophet and obeyed, fearing the Lord, and began working on the house of their God. Then Haggai delivered the Lord’s response: “I am with you.”

Your life needs cleaning. Built-up gunk and crud caused by neglecting to spend time with God have distanced your relationship, and nothing you do seems to prosper. When the Holy Spirit of God speaks to you through the Word or one of His messengers to consider your ways, bend to His rule and repent. Let His Spirit sweep your life free of sin’s black residue and repair the fissures, so that which exudes from your life is His sweet aroma, no smelly smoke. God is with you; it’s time to get back to your calling and His kingdom’s work.