For I have chosen you, says the LORD of hosts. Haggai 2:23
The LORD gave this promise to Zerubabbel through Prophet Haggai while rebuilding the temple at Jerusalem amid several obstacles. Zerubbabel is the governor of the rebuilt Jerusalem and is himself of royal blood being a descendant of David and the grandson of Judah’s King Jehoiachin. Years earlier, Jehoiachin had lost his throne when he was deported to Babylon; in fact, God pictured Jehoiachin as a signet ring being removed from God’s finger. Now, God calls Zerubbabel the “signet ring” but this time it won’t be removed.
In Haggai’s prophecy, God is giving Zerubbabel encouragement and hope. He is “chosen” for a unique, noble purpose and is given a place of honor and authority. God is reinstating the Davidic line and renewing His covenant with David. Judah still has a future as they look forward to the coming Son of David, the Messiah, who would one day “overturn royal thrones and shatter the power of the foreign kingdoms”. Zerubbabel becomes a picture of the future Messiah, Jesus Christ, who will establish His people in the Promised Land, construct an even grander temple, and lead the righteous in never-ending worship. Just as God chose Zerubbabel, He also chose us before the foundation of the world to salvation, restoration, and spiritual journey, hence God encourages us to build the spiritual temple of God, there can be discouragements, but the Lord will beautify the spiritual temple far more than the physical temple of past. God is counting on our faithfulness. Let us live by faith and work for the Lord. Lord said, ‘I will build my church’ but he has given us the privilege to be God’s coworkers.
Quote: “In God’s plan, the Future is always Brighter and Tomorrow always has the potential to Outshine today.”