Priorities are important. Too often, we focus on worldly things that seem so demanding and important, but neglect the things that truly matter. When we focus on selfish, earthly things, we anger God. And further, such focus is fruitless and hopeless. The only true fulfillment we can find is when we serve the Lord whole-heartedly. Haggai 1:9 says, “You looked for much, and behold, it came to little. And when you brought it home, I blew it away. Why? declares the Lord of hosts. Because of my house that lies in ruins, while each of you busies himself with his own house.”
The Jews were rebuked because they focused on building their homes instead of the temple. But are we any different? We do the same when we focus on our career and leave the Lord’s work undone, or whenever we put our desires before the Lord’s will. Don’t let the Lord’s House lie in ruins because you are focused on your own concerns.