Greetings, dear Christian readers! Today, we embark on a journey through the Book of Haggai, exploring a profound message that delves into the concept of blind spots in our lives. With a dash of humor and a dose of spiritual insight, we'll unravel the wisdom found within the pages of this ancient text and how it can shape our lives as modern Christians.

The Blind Spots in Our Lives

When we hear the word "blind spot," various images may come to mind. For some, it's that area behind a large vehicle where you can't see other cars. Others might think of the truths we hold back from our parents to avoid discouragement. And then there are those instances where we see blind spots in our friends, bosses, or even ourselves.

There was a time when true brothers in Christ pointed out a sin, in my life. They were real brothers in Christ who saw a blind spot and knew they had to help. Just as they helped me, the Holy Spirit reveals truth to us, guiding us on a journey of spiritual growth.

The Journey of Spiritual Growth

Our spiritual journey is marked by God's revelation of truth and guided by the Holy Spirit. As we grow in the knowledge of the truth, it impacts our hearts, ultimately transforming our lives and actions. It's a journey of "Truth-Heart-Action," as beautifully described by Martin Luther, "Conversion happens in three steps: Head, heart, and pocketbook."

On this journey, we are equipped with powerful tools: God's Word, the Church, Christian community, and access to an abundance of knowledge. These tools serve as our companions, helping us navigate the path of faith.

The Importance of Groundwork

Like any journey, spiritual growth requires groundwork. It's the foundational skills and disciplines that set the stage for our development. Just as a building is only as strong as its foundation, our spiritual growth hinges on the groundwork we lay.

Consider spiritual disciplines, time spent in the church community, and the practice of godliness. These elements separate those who genuinely love God and others from those who don't fully grasp the concept. Just as a farmer values good soil for a bountiful crop, our spiritual growth depends on a solid foundation.

Stewardship: Managing Time, Talents, and Treasure

A critical aspect of our spiritual groundwork is stewardship—how we manage our time, talents, and treasure. Time, unlike treasure, cannot be saved or accumulated. It steadily slips away. Talents, on the other hand, require exercise and practice. If we don't use them, we lose them.

Treasure is unique; it can be hoarded and controlled. Stewardship involves using our time, talents, and treasure wisely, in a manner that aligns with God's will.

Haggai's Message to Israel: A Wake-Up Call

In the Book of Haggai, we encounter a powerful message delivered to the people of Israel. These were individuals who had returned from exile in Babylon and were tasked with rebuilding Jerusalem, especially the temple.

Haggai's message came 17 years after their return, and he posed a crucial question, "How is it going?" The people of Israel had a blind spot—a skewed view of stewardship. They had fallen into the trap of thinking everything was "MINE." 

Correcting Our View of Stewardship

In the United States, stewardship often revolves around accumulation and personal comfort, focusing on what we can gain. It's a mindset of "MINE" rather than understanding that we are stewards, managers entrusted with God's resources.

In Haggai's time, stewardship was more akin to the managers of feudal lords in the early 1600s. These managers knew they didn't own anything but were responsible for their lord's estate. Similarly, we must recognize that everything belongs to God, and our role is to be faithful stewards, not hoarders.

Spiritual Growth: Dying to Self

Haggai's message from over 2500 years ago resonates strongly today. The concept of stewardship has seeped into the Church, with many viewing their time, talents, and treasure as possessions rather than gifts from God. When we fall into this trap, our spiritual growth suffers.

True spiritual growth is founded on dying to self, where God is the Owner, and we are His devoted stewards. When we embrace this perspective, we engage in more groundwork, remember Christ more faithfully, and allocate our time, talents, and treasure for God's glory.

Conclusion

As we conclude the first section of our journey through Haggai's message, let's reflect on our own lives. What blind spots do we have in our stewardship? How are we managing our time, talents, and treasure? Are we viewing them as possessions or as resources entrusted to us by God?

Let Haggai's timeless wisdom serve as a wake-up call for us today. May we correct our view of stewardship, recognizing that everything belongs to God. By doing so, we pave the way for our spiritual growth and set a profound example for the generations that follow.

In closing, let us remember that our spiritual journey is a continuous process, and our growth directly impacts those who come after us. Just as Haggai's message guided Israel, may our lives be a testimony of faithful stewardship for generations to come.

Small Group Discussion Questions:

1. Have you ever had a moment in your life when someone lovingly pointed out a blind spot or area of growth for you? How did that experience impact your journey of faith?

2. The article discusses the concept of stewardship as managing time, talents, and treasure. How do you currently view stewardship in your own life? Is it more about "MINE" or about serving God's purposes?

3. In your opinion, what are some common blind spots that Christians may have in their spiritual journeys today? How can we become more aware of and address these blind spots?

4. The article emphasizes the importance of groundwork in spiritual growth, such as spiritual disciplines and time spent in Christian community. How do these elements play a role in your spiritual life, and how can you enhance them?

5. Haggai's message to Israel was a wake-up call regarding their skewed view of stewardship. Can you share examples of how a misalignment in stewardship can impact our faith, both individually and as a community?

6. Reflecting on the idea of dying to self for spiritual growth, how can we shift our perspective from a self-centered approach to one that focuses on God's glory? What practical steps can we take to make this shift?

7. In the conclusion, the article highlights the ripple effect of our spiritual growth on future generations. How can you apply the lessons from Haggai's message to your life to leave a positive legacy for those who come after you?