Ever had a pair of pants with a hole in one of the pockets? Each time you put those pants on and place your hand in the pocket, you remember. And then you rationalize that it’s not that big of a deal. There are other, more pressing things. It’ll be alright. You’ll remember. Until you absentmindedly drop some coins, or a pen, or a check, or your keys into that same pocket.
Pockets with holes are annoying! (Can you tell I’ve lost more than one item through a hole in a pocket?)
But did you know that God, through his prophet Haggai, used that same everyday idea to make a vital spiritual point?
Then the word of the LORD came by the hand of Haggai the prophet, “Is it a time for you yourselves to dwell in your paneled houses, while this house lies in ruins? Now, therefore, thus says the LORD of hosts: Consider your ways. You have sown much, and harvested little. You eat, but you never have enough; you drink, but you never have your fill. You clothe yourselves, but no one is warm. And he who earns wages does so to put them into a bag with holes.” (Hag 1:3-6)
Though we live in a different era and a different context, it is still wise (and essential) to “consider our ways” in relation to our priorities, actions, and reactions to the revelation of our Creator. Will those things that I’m pouring into the “bag” of my life “abide forever” (1 John 2:15-17)? I brought nothing into this world, and I cannot take anything with me (1 Tim 6:6-8), but am I living life as if I believe those facts?
This sermon emphasizes four major life lessons as defined by the God who created us:
- Life outside of Christ is a bag with holes (Rom 8:31-32).
- Life that revolves around me is a bag with holes (Mat 16:24-26).
- Life without the kingdom of God first is a bag with holes (Mat 6:33).
- Life without treasures in heaven is a bag with holes (Mat 6:19-20).
You’re pouring a lot of things into your life. But will they last? Does the “bag” of your life have a hole in the bottom? And if so, isn’t it time that you did something about it?
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