Words to Treasure
The LORD also stirred up the rest of the people to help them. Then everyone began to work on the temple of the LORD who rules over all.
Haggai 1:14
Shane was so tired he couldn’t even think straight. It took so much effort to put one foot before another, but he so wanted to finish the marathon. Each step got harder than the last. The finish line seemed a hundred miles away. When he started, he could only think about how fast he would finish. But now he wondered if he could finish.
He felt hands touch his back in encouragement. Suddenly family and friends were jogging beside him. “Come on, Shane. You can do it. You’re almost there. We’re proud of you, Shane.”
From somewhere deep inside, Shane felt a new burst of energy, and he picked up the pace. He crossed the finish line and sank down in sweet victory.
Sometimes when we face tough challenges, we’re tempted to stop. Just like the people of Jerusalem when they were rebuilding the city after returning from Babylon. It was a big job rebuilding an entire city. After awhile they just wanted to stop. But God’s prophet Haggai was their cheering section! He kept telling them how beautiful the new temple would be and how great the city would be and how proud God was of them!
Live It!
When you’re facing tough challenges and you feel as if you just want to stop, pray and ask God for help. Then talk to that special someone who will encourage you to keep going. Sometimes you just need a little help, and God sent that person just for you.