“The glory of this present house will be greater than the glory of the former house.”
Haggai 2:9 (NIV)
The latter glory is the greater glory God promised for the rebuilt temple. In Haggai’s day, some of the people remembered the splendour of Solomon’s temple. When they looked at the work before them, it seemed insignificant by comparison. God spoke into their discouragement with three assurances.
Haggai 2:4–5
“I am with you”
God tells the leaders and the people to be strong and work because He is with them and His Spirit remains among them. They could take the next step before they could see the finished work.
When a ministry is rebuilding, honour what God did in the past and give yourself faithfully to the work He has entrusted to you today.
Haggai 2:6–8
“I will fill this house with glory”
God declares that He will shake the nations and fill His house with glory. The people were responsible for building. God Himself would fulfil the promise.
Prepare well, serve faithfully and pray expectantly. Ask God to make His presence known in the house you are building.
Haggai 2:9
“In this place I will grant peace”
Haggai ends this promise with peace. Ask God to bring reconciliation where relationships have fractured, courage where people are afraid, and renewed trust where disappointment has taken hold.
John 1:14 and 2 Corinthians 3:18
God’s glory seen in Jesus
John says that the Word became flesh and that His disciples saw His glory. As Christians, we see God’s glory most clearly in Jesus. As we behold the Lord, the Spirit transforms us into His likeness.
Church, honour what God did in the former days. Then put your hands to the work He has given you today. The same God who said, “Be strong … and work,” also said, “I am with you.”
Closing prayer
Lord, strengthen our hands for the work You have given us. Let the glory of Jesus be seen in how we worship, how we serve and how we treat one another. Grant peace to this house, and by Your Spirit make us more like Christ. Amen.