Wow, what a study it has been and we’ve reached our final segment of this series. I pray you have been blessed by the journey. But we’re not done yet, so let’s finish strong! Today’s conclusion is important, so let’s get to it!

Again, reach for your Bible or click here to review Haggai 2:1-9. We discussed 4 reasons God shakes things up (reason 1, reason 2, reason 3, reason 4), but what should be the church’s response to the shaking? Where do we go from here?

Let’s turn to Revelation 3:1-3 (NLT) to lay the foundation for this final segment:

“I know all the things you do, and that you have a reputation for being alive—but you are dead. ² Wake up! Strengthen what little remains, for even what is left is almost dead. I find that your actions do not meet the requirements of God. ³ Go back to what you heard and believed at first; hold to it firmly. Repent and turn to me again. If you don’t wake up, I will come to you suddenly, as unexpected as a thief.”

Here, through an aged, beloved disciple, John, God spoke to seven literal churches and to us. Be honest. Do those words describe us? Do we have a reputation of being alive, but are all but dead spiritually? In worship, do we offer Him not only our whole heart, but also our bodies as a living sacrifice, according to Romans 12:1? Are we sharing the gospel and making disciples? Are we ready in season and out to correct, rebuke, and exhort?

I believe God’s message to each of us individually and to the church is: “Wake up!”

But be of good cheer! I told you we will end on a high note, and it is this: Faithful is He who calls you, and He also will do it. (1 Thessalonians 5:24) Just as it was God Himself who initiated and fulfilled Old Testament covenants with Abraham, Moses and others, so He will do with us today! Dear friends, it is not about us “trying harder,” it is about us surrendering fully and completely to the will, guidance and power of our Almighty King Jesus! It is only through God the Father’s work in us, Jesus the Son’s life lived through us, and the Holy Spirit’s power that the Father’s business will be accomplished.

Jointly, here at our virtual study table, can we agree to commit ourselves to surrender to Him? We are joined together from literally all over the globe and Jesus is every bit as powerful in the place you are right now as anywhere else. Together, might we be the vessels God uses to bring about the Father’s business in our own sphere?

If you are willing, agree with me in this prayer:

Almighty God, King of the universe, I look to You as the only capable One to empower me to do Your will.  Father God, I ask for Your wisdom, guidance and direction.  When You reveal one step after another, I commit to walk the path you lay out for me.  Jesus, my Lord, it is Your life lived out through me that is able to accomplish our Father's business.  I die internally so that You will live eternally in and through me.  Blessed Holy Spirit, I invite Your power now to spark the flame that is lit in the Father's guidance and Jesus' life lived through me.  Doing the Father's business without You is like trying to drive a car without gas.  So fill me up and allow me to unleash the life of Christ.  Jointly and individually, we surrender ourselves fully to You.  In the Name above all Names, Jesus Christ, we pray.  Amen