As the remnant continued to build the second temple, God instructs His people to not compare the former temple with the new one, promising them that the new one would inhabit more glory; but God isn't just building the temple - He's also building holiness in His people through the process.

In 538 B.C., During the Persian reign, a remnant was sent back to Jerusalem to rebuild the temple, under the leadership of Zerubbabel and Joshua. The foundation was set and much of the ministry was reactivated, but eventually the work was stopped by foreign adversaries. Haggai was one of two prophets sent by the Lord during this time, to preach the word and work alongside the people to reactivate the building completion of the temple. In chapter one, we find the people confronted about their priorities of building their houses over the house of God. In similar fashion, there is a temptation for the believer today to prioritize their household before ministry. In similar fashion to the prophet's message, we ought to ponder in our hearts and consider our ways.