Work! God is with you!

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Revelation 17-18, Haggai 1-2

Haggai 2:4 – Yet now be strong, O Zerubbabel, declares the LORD.  Be strong, O Joshua, son of Jehozadak, the high priest.  Be strong, all you people of the land, declares the Lord.  Work, for I am with you, declares the LORD of hosts.

Lord God, as we approach any task whether great or small, we count the cost.  We weigh the risks and the rewards.  As we look at the tasks in front of us there are a lot of things that scare us.  And it’s always easier to play it safe.  But God, as you spoke to the leaders and to the workers about the work of rebuilding the temple you sent them to work with the promise, “I am with you.”  And you say the same to me.  Whatever task I face, whatever trouble I encounter, you say to me, “Work, for I am with you.”  Whatever challenge faces me this week or in the coming year, help me to face it knowing that you are for me in the fight and with me in my work.  And so, with this confidence, send me out to work for you.  Amen.