Haggai 1:1-15. After beginning the work of rebuilding the temple, the Israelites faced opposition which led them to discontinue their work. After 16 years of building their own houses instead of the temple, God sends Haggai to challenge the people to continue their work building the temple. Like the Israelites, we too can lose sight of God and allow other things to become first in our lives. We need the reminder of Haggai to put first things first.