HAGGAI 365 DEVOTION

Sometimes life is hard. Troubles, fear, sadness, sickness, hurt feelings, betrayal – these things often make us feel as if we are falling into the darkness. We feel hopeless.

God’s words in Psalm 23:4 remind us that we should not be afraid even when we walk through the valley of the shadow of death. His rod and His staff always comfort us. God never leaves His people who are in deep sorrow. God always has mercy on us. So whatever challenge you face, don’t be afraid – because we have a Living and Powerful God.

Prayer:
Dear Lord, please give us the courage to face every trouble in our life, as we know you are the only protection we need. Amen.

Haggai leader:
Amelia Oeij
Finance Director, Global Eksis Persada, Jakarta
Indonesia

Quote:
Haggai changed me to be more committed to the works of God.

Have you ever felt like you are experiencing the presence of God, right in front of you and He is allowing you to win a battle?

I am so thankful and praise the Lord God because I could feel He was with me. He allowed me to experience that His Word is true and alive when I was facing challenges a few months ago and needed to stand firm. I did wait on the Lord, and I was rescued. Every day, He reminds me He is with me. When I am leading others at work, where corruption tries to overcome the truth – God shows me the right direction. When I am sharing the Gospel, the Holy Spirit gives me the right words to say. He strengthens me. He inspires me.

Prayer:
O Lord God, I am so thankful to you who have shown me how to deal and interact with others; how to equip and encourage others; and how to teach others to do the same. May each of us continue to spread your Gospel. To you only be all the glory! Amen

Haggai leader:
Ony Haja Lalaina Rabemananjara
Planning and Control Manager, Civil Aviation, Antananarivo
Madagascar

Quote:
When God calls, He sends and equips. I knew it “intellectually,” but since Haggai, I have experienced it “for real.” I am so grateful to my Father for letting me know His truth.

This verse has been a great comfort in my struggles with uncontrolled fear that cripples. In the Filipino culture, in the face of fear in circumstances beyond our control, we often leave matters to fate and say, “Bahala na.” This is a phrase meaning “come what may” or leave matters to fate.

In my life, I too have uttered this phrase “bahala na” when confronted with concerns. But praise God, I can stand by and savor His promises in His Word. When in darkness and groping for answers and comfort, “the Lord is my light and my salvation.” When all earthly “safe houses” like pride and other pursuits crumble, God is my fortress and my refuge that keeps my feet on stable land. He is the stronghold of my life. I have memorized this verse and utter this in trying circumstances. The Lord conquers, defeats, and totally wipes away fear! This verse ushers in the glory of His presence, and in His presence, there is fullness of joy (Psalm 16:11).

Prayer:
Thank you Father God, Abba. You are our light and our salvation and the stronghold of our life. No matter what circumstances, we will not fear.

Haggai leader:
Grace Bengwayan
University and Board Secretary, Benguet State University
Philippines

Quote:
Haggai has strengthened my faith and has opened avenues and venues for evangelism. It has showed me my marketplace: family, church, and work.

I remember the dreadful typhoon Haiyan destroyed the southern Philippines. There was no electricity, no food, and no potable water, with massive destruction, dead bodies all around, and weeping all over. Many families were separated and people were dealing with a lot of uncertainty.

Many visited the devastated city of Tacloban, expressed love and concern, and performed good deeds. We Christians met with the people to pray, share God’s Word, and counseled them. The miracle of transformation began. The people began to have energy for a new beginning, with joy in their hearts and smiles on their faces. Hope for the future surrounded them.

Inevitably, hardships and tribulations come our way not only to change us, but to position us for a greater life that God intends. Today, Tacloban is a better place. Infrastructures have been strategically constructed; the economy is stronger; and the people have found their hope in God and are growing in their faith.

Prayer:
Lord, help us to be aware of life’s circumstances so that we can handle them with a proper perspective and solve them with your passion that we may rejoice in you and your name be glorified.

Haggai leader:
Elizabeth Cantoria
Company Treasurer, Moriah 2006 Lending Corporation
Philippines

Quote:
I experienced a deeper love from God that now motivates me to be more passionate in obeying the Great Commission.

A few years ago, I couldn’t move my right hand. We went to the best hospital in Mongolia, and the doctor said that being a young person, I should exercise more. I thought, “No problem,” and figured my condition wasn’t serious. But a few days later, I had a high fever and couldn’t move my whole body, only my eyes.

My husband took me to receive treatments. I started to move around a little, but my husband said we needed to seek treatment in South Korea. We went and stayed at a church, where an elder suggested a hospital. I was diagnosed with a serious sickness that affects 1 out of 500 people. The doctor said since I received my diagnosis early, I will probably be fine, but I have learned of others who passed away from this illness.

I move around like a healthy person now because I take my medicine and receive my treatment. I am thankful to God that He guides me on the path I should take even though it is a hard one.

Prayer:
Father, thank you for leading us on the paths that are best for us. Thank you for never leaving us alone.

Haggai leader:
Oyunbayar Janjaadorj
CEO, Newpress Company
Mongolia

Quote:
Since Haggai, I realized I haven’t given enough to people. Now I want to offer more, so I sponsor a Christian conference and seminar now.

Hurricane season in the Western Hemisphere runs from 1 June through 30 November. Recently, the last three months of the season are the most active. Every year Belize and other Caribbean nations face the threat of devastating impacts from intense storms. We prepare as best we can and pray we emerge unscathed.

Last September, Hurricane Maria ravaged several islands leaving a wake of inconceivable destruction. After the hurricane, I contacted a friend from one of the affected territories to confirm that he and his family were safe. I will never forget his words after he shared what he knew of the damage: “God is good!”

Despite uncertainty about his country’s future and even of his family’s safety and future prospects in their homeland, God’s praise was on my friend’s lips. This is as it should be. Whether the sun shines brightly or storms rage above us, we should continually boast of the Lord’s goodness. We do not know what this September will bring, but we can commit to praising Him, come what may.

Prayer:
Father, even as we ask for protection from storms and other natural disasters, please help us to remember your goodness and bless your name at all times.

Haggai leader:
KARLENE MCSWEANEY
Senior Economist, Ministry of Economic Development, Petroleum, Investment, Trade and Commerce
Belize

Quote:
Haggai has enlarged my focus on telling others about what Christ has done for us, particularly outside the church’s walls.

In India there is a saying: “It is the ripe fruit on a tree that is stoned the most.” A righteous man is like a ripe fruit vulnerable to the devil’s “stones.” Who is a righteous man? He, who trusts in Jesus, is a righteous man. “God made Him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God” (Galatians 6:9). Through faith in Jesus we are righteous. Abraham believed God, and it was reckoned to him as righteousness (Romans 4:3). Abraham was troubled for most of his life without the promised son until God gave him a son. A righteous man may have many afflictions, but God shields him. So, let not troubles discourage us.

The cover of a friend’s birthday card read, “Let troubles follow you all your days . . . ” and flipping open, it read, “but never overtake you!” No trouble can overtake or overwhelm you. So be of good courage. Trouble takes you to God, and God takes the trouble away.

Prayer:
Father, thank you for helping us through troubles. Thank you for encouraging us with your love.

Haggai leader:
ABRAHAM VERGHESE
Director, GPS Institute of Agricultural Management, Bangalore
India

Quote:
After Haggai, evangelism has never been the same for me. All my post-graduate students (mostly non- Christians) have been told the Gospel, and three are strong believers.

Taking delight in the Lord is key to the manifestation of the desires of your heart. There is so much frustration in the world today. At the root of this frustration is the lack of receiving the desires of the heart.

The Lord wants to shift you from frustration to fulfillment. Fulfillment comes when the desires of your heart come to pass. It is the Lord’s doing and calls for faithfulness. Faithfulness has two parts: God’s role and your role. God is forever faithful. The deal is done when you do your part. Your role is to trust in the Lord; do good; delight in the Lord; commit your way to the Lord; and feed on His faithfulness. The desires of those who don’t delight in the Lord are idols. God hates idolatry. The way of idolatry is cursed. But when you delight in Him, His will becomes your will.

Prayer:
Father, help us put our trust in you, our Savior. And may we always take delight in you.

Haggai leader:
LEMMY SIKENA
Founder/Senior Pastor, Christian Harvest Centre, Mongu
Zambia

Quote:
After Haggai, I have become a prolific author of 21 revival books in less than two months.

When I finished my baccalaureate degree in nursing, God wanted me to work in a village, instead of my dream of going abroad. Obediently, I started working in the nursing school and hospital, winning souls for Christ.

During my difficult days, I was encouraged by this Bible verse. I learned to focus on God rather than the circumstances. Our God is an awesome God, and He does reward those who seek Him (Hebrews 11:6). The more time we spend in prayer and
reading His Word, the more we will be able to trust Him.

Now, I am principal at the nursing college in this same institution. And many of the students who received Christ as their Savior are now working around the world as His witnesses. God is faithful. And as Romans 5:5 says, “Hope does not disappoint us.”

Prayer:
Father God, help me to trust in you always. You really do have the best plan for my life.

Haggai leader:
GRACE CHANDRA LEELA KINGSTON>
Principal, Christian Nursing College, Tamil Nadu
India

Quote:
Through Haggai, I was given a burden for all the lost souls in the world and motivated to prepare the young people to become leaders in Christ to expand God’s Kingdom.

We praise God in season and out of season because He is the King of kings. It is through the wonders of the rugged cross that we receive grace. If we come to Him by faith, the Author of our faith gives us power to break the chains of fear. If we allow the Holy Spirit to dwell in us no matter what kind of storms steal our joy, we are not shaken if our faith is built on a rock. God is our fortress and shield, and He keeps His promises.

When my father was a young policeman, he arrested several gangsters, and they were imprisoned for 20 years. When they were released, they hunted him high and low, but they could not recognize him because he was middle-aged by then. Our God conceals us in the secret place of His presence in times of trouble.

Prayer:
Almighty God, I lay my life before you, and I recommit my life to you; I will serve no foreign god, but you alone in spirit and in truth.

Haggai leader:
PHILILE MBATHA
Director, Department of Education, Mpumalanga Province
South Africa

Quote:
Now, I am able to make people feel warm around me. I try to listen more than to talk. When I see a person, I see the image of God.

We were marching toward the village where we were going to have a medical outreach. The villagers were helping to bring our luggage and materials to the site. Panting and puffing with my relatively small backpack, I was following a woman with a small child attached to her back and a big suitcase on her head. We were relieved when the zebu cart arrived to carry the rest of the load!

Right now, we are all on a trip to the Father’s house in this adventure called “life.” What burdens are weighing you down – spiritually, emotionally, physically, and financially? Each day brings its challenges – joys, sorrows, and to-do lists. You and I can think of a time when we wondered if we were going to make it through the day.

Struggles are unavoidable parts of life. But we don’t have to face them alone. The Lord Jesus promised not to take all troubles from our lives, but to bring us through as we put our trust in Him.

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, may you help those who are carrying heavy burdens right now to experience your peace.
Amen

Haggai leader:
NORO RAKOTOARIVELO
Medical Doctor and Teaching Leader in the Bible Study Fellowship, Antananarivo
Madagascar

Quote:
Studying the “vision” at Haggai changed the way I approach my ministry, where I teach 200 ladies every week and train 40 leaders, who I now see as evangelists. I do appeal for a verdict more boldly and encourage them to share the Gospel.

A time of distress, and a time of despair. A moment of indiscretion brought much grief and sorrow to David, a man after God’s heart. David had yielded to the temptation of committing adultery. However, he arose from that fallen state and in remorse and repentance, found his way back to God. As a man after God’s heart, David knew that God is forever faithful and there is none other in heaven, but God. This assurance brought him to a place of total surrender to God, and total dependence on Him for strength and help.

Just like David, our heart and flesh can fail us time and time again. However, if we fall, we are assured that there is a way back to God because He is our portion forever, and will not turn away. Instead, His divine strength will enable us to remain strong
in Him. Even in the face of temptations and the lure of lusts and pleasures of this world, we can say like David, “My flesh and my heart many times they fail, but God shall be the strength of my heart and my portion forever.”

Prayer:
Father, thank you for being enough. Amen

Haggai leader:
ALBERT JAI HWA DING
Regional leader, Full Gospel Assembly, Kuala Lumpur
Malaysia

Quote:
The International Haggai Leader Experience transformed my life in May 2017. I am now passionately witnessing for Christ, as well as inspiring others to do the same.

God is clear to indicate that it is possible for me and you to illuminate the darkest places. Knowing Him and having His Holy Spirit inside us gives us the certainty that our life is light and can illuminate the darkness. We are gifted with the perfect God to be light to the nations.

And this is our life with Jesus. Each day our actions must be moved by love of God and love of His work. Blessing others and giving freedom to the nations through Christ is a task that our Father likes. And with that certainty of what God asks of us, it is possible to transform lives and places. Whole nations need us to share God’s message, economic resources, prayers, and time of service from Christ’s followers. In what area do you dare to be a part? What do you want God to find you doing when He returns? Light or darkness? Life or death?

Prayer:
Dear Father, May our actions be shining a light to influence others to know God’s love.

Haggai leader:
NOEMI YOLANDA ESPINOZA VILLAMAR>
Coordinator of evangelistic activities and leadership trainer
Ecuador

Quote:
I affirm my purpose to be intentional with everything I do in order to impact others with the love of God – a global Christian investing in the extension of the Kingdom.

In my part of the world in the Middle East, we still find oppression all around – be it religious, political, economic, gender-related, or cultural. A historical fact is that most of the people who heard of, witnessed, and experienced Jesus are the ones who are socially, economically, and culturally alienated and oppressed.

It reminds me of the plight of humans depicted by a poet in Telugu, a southern Indian language: “What’s there to be proud of the history of any race; all the human race is exploited by the other.” This is a reality even in the 21st century. That’s why the call of Jesus is relevant and continues to be the ray of hope for the oppressed: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28).

There is nothing more solacing and comforting than the call of Jesus. This gives us strength to endure the suffering; courage to stand against injustice; and a hope to look unto the Lord as He gives us righteousness and justice.

Prayer:
Lord, help me to be a tool in your hands, so that you can work justice for the oppressed through me.

Haggai leader:
SOLOMON PAUL BONDLA
English Professor, Jazan University, Jazan
Saudi Arabia

Quote:
All my life, I was a sincere Christian, but Haggai training reminded how important I am as an individual in my time and space to take the Gospel into the world.

During the day I experience different stages, including a work stage and a rest stage. There is a stage that is very important to me: the worship stage! It is when songs of praise come from within me and are addressed to my Savior. In those moments, I would like to become a melody – that the essence of my whole being would be like musical notes capable of composing the most beautiful song that expresses the pure essence of His presence.

During my times of worship, I sing words of worship and gratitude to the God who gave me life when I was dead in my sins. Yes! He is my salvation! What would become of me without His sacrifice of love? I would not have strength, future, or hope. How great a love, without equal! He is my High Refuge, my Strength, my Prince of Peace, and my Source of Identity, who vivifies my life every morning!

Prayer:
Lord, may we celebrate continuously with music, songs, and thanksgiving for the wonderful essence of your love that has saved us.

Haggai leader:
MELODY BARAHONA
Director, The Bible Training Center, Living Water Ministries
Honduras

Quote:
The Haggai experience changed my way of thinking about the Biblical mandate and showed me, in a new and real way, that the Kingdom of God is growing firmly in many nations of the world.

For almost two and one-half years, we have faced financial crises in our family.

Starting with the bankruptcy of the company where my husband worked and ending with the failure of millions’ worth in investments that made our financial condition fall. The current economic growth in Indonesia is slowing down so it is not easy to start a new business or to get a new job at an older age. This makes us feel depressed and stressed.

In times like this, there is nothing we can do except come to God and get strengthened by His Word, which gives us life. If you are in the same condition as us, please don’t despair or be discouraged. Speak the Word of God. Hold the promises of God. And believe that God will carry us through the storm. His love never fails.

Prayer:
Father in Heaven, help us to trust your Word and give us the strength to do your will. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Haggai leader:
NONITAWATI SLAMET
Pioneer, Association of the Elderly, Gading Serpong, Tangerang
Indonesia

My youngest neighbor (about three) yelled all the time. One day she fell and I expected passionate crying. But, no. She got up and continued on her pursuit. I was dumbfounded. My little friend had been weaned.

Like her, I was very good at crying and really enjoyed Jesus picking me up. But I had to learn that God’s dominion is handed to sons and daughters, not babies. When everything that mattered to me came under the attack of the enemy, my love for God and everything I believed about Him was severely tested. But when I learned to quiet my afflicted soul with the Word, I started answering the enemy at the gates. Like my friend, I learned not only to cry less, but also to run.

Prayer:
Lord, please help my heart to stay focused on your Word in all my situations today.

Haggai leader:
YVONNE ABRAHAM
COO, Hope Health Services, The Gambia Ltd.
Gambia, The

Quote:
Haggai Institute taught me to look outside the box to reach the unsaved. I‘ve hosted many different events, including a fashion show to talk about the Best Ever Designer, Jesus.

It was such an experience of joy when we fixed the solar- and battery-powered lights in one of the big houses in the village one afternoon. All the children waited until the sun went down and the lights became visible. They were so excited to know that this house will be a place for their daily activities.

Normally, it was their daily experience to be dirty, to be hurt, and to be in darkness. Having no knowledge, being cared for by no one, they grew like a wild flower. I asked one brilliant boy, “What is your vision?” He answered, “I will find something very sweet to eat for my mama, my brother, and sister.”

But change comes when we teach their school lessons and especially teach them the Living Word of God. A village of hopeless people has come to see a brighter future. God’s Word is the Lamp and the Light. It illuminates our minds and hearts, and it directs our feet and steps. It enlightens us to see a great vision, and it guides
us to fulfill our goals.

Prayer:
Father, thank you that your Word shines brightly to illuminate each of our steps.

Haggai leader:
VUI EN THANG
Founder and Director of Ro Tling Ministries and Life Academy
Myanmar

Quote:
Haggai changed my whole life and view of ministry through the renewing of my mind to a great vision. Now I can see a Biblically educated generation, who is capable of transforming and leading our nation to the liberty and peace of the Kingdom of God.

The Andes pass through seven countries in South America: Argentina, Chile, Bolivia, Perú, Ecuador, Colombia, and Venezuela. In Colombia, the Andes divide into three separate mountain ranges forming valleys, plateaus, and even snow-covered volcanoes. Main cities in Colombia are located in the highlands, and the mountain ranges serve as a reference for location purposes. Instead of saying “east” or “west,” people say “up” if they are moving toward the mountains or “down” if they are going the opposite way.

That is why we have learned to lift up our eyes to something much bigger when looking for direction. Psalm 121 reminds us that Someone greater than us can take care of us. Lifting our eyes helps us to stop looking at the troubles we are immersed in and to set our sights on the Almighty. Sometimes it is very cloudy, and you can’t see the mountains. However, you know they are there, that they have not moved.

In the same way, even though we can’t see God, we can trust Him because His Word says He is there.

Prayer:
My God, my Creator, my Helper, today I lift my eyes looking for help and direction from you.

Haggai leader:
DAVID RAMOS
Senior Bio-Process Engineer, Sucroal S.A. Lecturer, University Icesi, Cali
Colombia

Quote:
Haggai changed me to be more intentional. A lot of times opportunities to share the Gospel don’t come up easily, but now I know I have to make them happen.

When I realized this verse was my reality, peace came in to my heart! Each time I start my day, I declare this reality to remind me who I am for Him: His beloved daughter. There is a lot of insecurity in our country these days, but nevertheless, I feel untouchable because my Father says it is so. He keeps me from all harm. All means “all,” so I don’t need to fear anything. Perfect love casts out all fear, and my real love is my Heavenly Father!

Prayer:
Father, thank you for telling me that even living in this world full of danger and insecurity you take care of me, and you watch over my coming and going now and forevermore. That reminds me that I am valuable to you. Thank you that you have not given me a spirit of fear but of power, love, and self-discipline. Thank you because as your daughter, I am protected in your arms. I feel sure that you will watch over me and bless each step I make.

Haggai leader:
Ana Noriega Alvitres
Leader of Marriages, Camino de Vida, Lima
Peru

Quote:
Haggai enlarged my vision and stoked the gift of God in my life. Now I am more focused on God\’s Great Commission and making steps by faith.

I’ve been reflecting on the journey I have travelled over for the last two decades. Raising five children on a largely single parent income in a nation facing major economic challenges – it can only be God!

I thought of the many times that I struggled to meet some simple basic needs, yet they still excelled in school. I continued to have faith in God’s ability to deliver as I served in ministry. Recently, when two of my older children graduated from high school, I stood in awe, overwhelmed by God’s faithfulness.

As I was packing the many awards that they had received over the years, my mouth was filled with laughter. As I filed away their baby photos – comparing with their recent “selfies” – I began to sing. They had grown in their walk with the Lord over the years in spite of everything. I was overwhelmed when I considered the many people who had written us off because of our situation. Many now remark in wonder at what God has done. God is faithful; He sees every tear and turns our sorrow into joy.

Prayer:
Father, please turn every situation of captivity in our lives to joy in you.

Haggai leader:
Cynthia Chirinda Hakutangwi
Managing Consultant, Wholeness Incorporated
Zimbabwe

Quote:
I am focused on the goals I set towards ending Gospel poverty!

Unity brings harmony where individuals are emotionally and intellectually committed, like a symphony made by the different instruments in an orchestra.

Being born in South Africa and experiencing the release of President Nelson Mandela after being jailed for 27 years, I have seen the devastating effect that disunity causes. Disappointment, discouragement, distance, disconnectedness, discord, and disengagement. Without unity, differences scare people and drive them apart. Without unity, each person stands alone. When we come together in unity, we cooperate. We work together to accomplish more than any one of us could by ourselves. When you practice unity, you see each person as a gift. Working in unity with others gets things done efficiently. Unity is solving conflict peacefully by listening and finding solutions.
So, stand in unity with a clear sense of purpose and calling. With a humble spirit, build healthy relationships with your spouse and family. Live a simple lifestyle with a passion to learn and keep focused on God’s Kingdom. Then you will finish well.

Prayer:
Lord, I choose to live my life in a way that pleases and honors you. May my walk of absolute unity and faith be blameless in your sight. Amen

Haggai leader:
Mario Denton
CEO, Strong Message Business Consultancy
South Africa

Quote:
I am actively involved as a faculty member to train leadership and as a radio and TV personality, training people to put God first.

I learned this from my father’s life. I come from a Batak family, and long ago in my dad’s village, God was not a priority. According to ancient Bataknese, there are three indicators of success: 1. Hasangapon means you have a long life, 2. Hagabeon means you have a big family (having children and grandchildren), and 3. Hamoraon means you are rich.

Unlike the usual Batak people, my grandfather taught my father and his brother to seek God first if they wanted to learn and achieve something for their future. My grandfather used this verse, Proverbs 1:7, to help my father and his brother have an understanding of wisdom. I have learned and understand that obedience to the Lord gives us wisdom and understanding about everything in this world. You must trust and obey God first, and He will give you understanding.

Prayer:
Dear Lord, please help all parents from the Batak’s people and all parents in the world to seek you first, so they will be a role model for their children.

Haggai leader:
Risma Rezeki Sitompul
Medical Doctor, Woman Crisis Centre, Pekanbaru, Riau
Indonesia

Quote:
Haggai’s vision motivated me to bring the Gospel to remote areas with unreached people.

Basotho (people of Lesotho) say, “Nete e molemo ka mehla” (truth always rewards). Basotho have no problem with being honest as long as it does not put their lives in danger.

In Proverbs 2:21 we learn that the Lord rewards people who live honestly. My husband, Joseph, a pastor in Lesotho, was once arrested for speeding and had to pay a non-refundable bail of M2000.00 (USD 143.00). Preparing for the court case, some police officers felt sympathetic and encouraged him to lie about his reasons for speeding. But Joseph refused. During the case Joseph admitted to the wrong he did. The magistrate was impressed with his honesty and for telling the truth that he had no good reason for speeding, So she acquitted him and refunded his bail of M2000.00. This was a very unusual verdict, which surprised everyone. In Joseph’s story we could say he remained in the “land” because of being honest – and God rewarded him. He was set free and got his money back.

Prayer:
Lord, help me to stand for the truth at all times.

Haggai leader:
Lineo Morenammele
Head of Program, Lerotholi Polytechnic, Maseru
Lesotho

Quote:
Haggai showed me the urgency of the Gospel. Goal setting has empowered me to be an achiever, and my perspective and attitude about people from other religions has changed.

In 2010, I began a prayer walk after I set foot in a corrupt government revenue agency, where I was assigned as auditor. In 2013, I was promoted to supervising auditor. I was hesitant, covered with fear and anxiety, because of the danger waiting.

Yet as a Christian, I have to stand in the gap and accepted the job. Like Queen Esther, who chose to obey and talked to the king, if I perish, I perish. And like Gideon, even with only 300 men, I will fight. God shielded all of them, giving them success and lifting them up to show His glory.

I consider my work as state auditor a ministry, even if my life is endangered daily because of my findings that the newspaper publishes, the subpoenas I receive to be a witness, and the invitations given by legislative bodies to be a resource person for anomalous inquiries. I know God covers me like an eagle with His wings, and millions of angels surround me.

Prayer:
LORD, help me fulfill my responsibility so that I will be a light and salt in the dark and decaying world.

Haggai leader:
Maria Theresa Yamboa
State Auditor V, Commission on Audit, Quezon City
Philippines

Quote:
Haggai inspires me to share the Gospel with the next generation auditors and train them with integrity and honesty.

We Thais are known as the people of the land of smiles. It is easy for us to give our warm, welcoming smiles or even sincerely reach out helping hands to strangers. However, this might seem a bit odd in other countries. When we live in an internationally diverse world, we see that each country has its own cultural traditions. People in some countries might seem openly friendly and easygoing. Whereas, in other countries, people seem more reserved.

However, once we put our lives in the hands of Christ, we are His ambassadors representing His lovingkindness. His nature allows us to give the sweet scent of His love to those around us, no matter our nationalities.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, please help us to live our lives following your loving characteristics, and help us let other people see Christlikeness in our daily lives so that they can see your glory through us.

Haggai leader:
Ampaitepin Singhabhandhu
Doctor, Humanitarian Sector (supporting refugees)
Jordan

Quote:
Haggai helped me to recognize the importance of Christlikeness in my life’s journey.

As a physiologist, I learn and teach about the brain and its mechanics, and I know that a human being functions totally based on his/her “understanding.” Our knowledge and cognition of the world around us gives us the unique position in the world as God’s supreme creation.
One would assume that since He has provided us “our own understanding,” we should make good use of it, and well, most of humanity does that. The wise man, however, exhorts us to depend solely on the Lord, abandoning self-reliance so that our paths may be made straight.
I ought to take cognizance of His existence, His presence, and His understanding in my life and depend on that knowledge, rather than what I understand is best. And this I try to do, however gifted I may be with the knowledge of this world.

Prayer:
Father, you sent the Holy Spirit as promised by your Son, Jesus Christ, to be with us, to lead us, and to be our wisdom. Help us to listen to His voice alone as we find our way through this dark world. Amen.

Haggai leader:
Jaideep Rayapudi
Associate Professor, Pondicherry
India

Quote:
Haggai training has enabled me to see myself as a leader even if I did not hold any position. I’m constantly providing leadership and direction to the people around me, pushing them higher toward the Kingdom of God.

When it comes to giving to the Lord, many people raise their eyebrows. However, there are so many blessings attached! Early in my relationship with my husband (21 years now), he told me we will be giving 20 percent of our income as tithe and Kingdom investment. I agreed and have seen how the Lord has blessed us.

Recently, I decided I had been on that 20 percent mountain for too long, so I told God I wanted to increase it to 25 percent, but I needed a salary increase to be able to do that. At this time, I had been on the same level at work for eight years with no hope of promotion, and taxes were increasing! But as soon as I started implementing this in August 2018, a promotion letter followed in September with a raise in salary and six months’ arrears paid in November!

When we honor the Lord with our substance and the first fruits of our increase, He fills our barns with plenty and our vats with new wine!

Prayer:
Father, please help me to honor you with all I have in Jesus’ name.

Haggai leader:
Oluseyi Olawale
Pastor and Co-founder, Word of His Grace Christian Mission
Seychelles

Quote:
I was touched by the humility and service of the volunteers and saw Christian service in a new light.