It’s a sad reality that we often thirst and yearn for what we don’t have. We think to ourselves, “If only I had a little more money.” Or, “If only I had a little more time.” Well, look to those in Haggai as an example of lusting after what you don’t have leading you towards nothing but greed. The Lord asks: “Why are you living in luxurious houses while my house lies in ruins?” His people were feasting on their wealth, yet the temple lay in ruin. They filled their bellies, but the altar was empty. The book says, “You have planted much but harvested little. You eat but are not satisfied. You drink but are still thirsty. You put on clothes but cannot keep warm. Your wages disappear as though you were putting them in pockets filled with holes!”

God’s people were living in ignorance – or refusing to admit the truth. While they filled their bellies with food, the supplies were not replenished. While they bought expensive clothes, there were no sheep to be sheared. While they tried to satisfy their every desire, their thirst was not slaked. No, they refused to see where they were headed. Yet, did God let them fail? No, He sent His prophet to rekindle the fire in their soul – yet again.

God never gave up on His people. Even through their ignorance, pride, lust, and betrayal He never gave up on them. These minor prophets of the old testament show us that time and time again God was searching for us and searching to gain our hearts. Yet, time and time again we fell away. We betrayed Him. We sought after our own lusts and desires. Until finally, He sent the ultimate gift: perfect grace through Christ. He knew he would never stop seeking after us, so He knew He was willing to pay the ultimate price to purchase us.