Keep Building: Persevering in God’s Promised Work

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In his sermon on Haggai 1–2, Stephen Tindall addressed a struggle many of us recognize: discouragement that comes after we have taken the first step of obedience.

The people of Israel had returned from exile and begun rebuilding the temple. But opposition, difficult circumstances and comparisons to the former temple caused their enthusiasm to fade. Their work seemed small, and the finished goal felt far away.

Through Haggai, God gave them a direct command: “Be strong…and work.” This was not an instruction to rely on their own strength. God reminded them, “My Spirit remains among you. Do not fear.”

That same encouragement applies to us. We often measure success by what we can see—numbers, growth, recognition or quick results. But God does not ask us to produce something impressive in our own strength. He asks us to remain faithful, trusting that our small acts of obedience are part of His much greater work.

We do not work to earn God’s presence; we work because He is already with us. When progress feels slow and discouragement begins to settle in, we can continue with courage, grounded in God’s presence and confident in His future promise.

Keep building. Keep trusting. The work may look small today, but God is writing a much larger story.