Following captivity, some Jews returned to Jerusalem. They were expected to rebuild the temple. Rather than making this their priority, they put wordly pursuits above all (cf. Hag. 1:4,6). They suffered for this, and God exhorted, “Consider your ways” (Hag. 1:5,7).
The phrase “consider your ways” prompts reflection and self-examination (cf. 2 Cor. 13:5). Considering our ways is something we should do frequently.
While many approach self-examination fearful of finding something that needs to be fixed, we should actually be eager to find things that need corrected. Instead of being scared to discover sin, we should be scared not to find sin when it exists. We should be eager to improve.
Considering our ways is not about comparing ourselves to others, but to the standard of God’s will.
Much of the temptation for pride may stem from man’s tendency to look at how we “measure up” to others. This is a bad method of self-reflection (cf. Luke 18:11).
Instead of such an attitude, strong Christians are often the first individuals to acknowledge their need for growth. We should dig into the Word seeking to grow and improve (cf. Acts 20:32; 1 Pet. 2:2).
May we consider our ways and examine ourselves constantly to find things we can do to better please God.
– Michael Hickox