Jen Fitzgerald

1 Timothy 3

Paul highlights the importance of church leaders “walking the walk.” Throughout Scripture, God emphasizes that church leaders are held to a higher standard because of the critical role they play in advancing His Kingdom.

Paul’s emphasis on the need for elders and leadership in the church reinforces that every congregation should have such positions in place. However, Paul also focuses on the character traits required for these roles, helping Timothy understand how leaders should conduct themselves in the house of God.

Zechariah 11

This chapter delivers a tough message. Zechariah warns that God is frustrated with His people’s disobedience, almost as if saying, “Fine, do it your way, but I will no longer protect you.” It’s hard to imagine our loving Father laying down the law like this, but His intent is to protect and not let His people stray.

Zechariah 5

In Zechariah 5, the tone of the visions takes a turn, with God sending a clear message that judgment is coming for the iniquities of both the people and the nations. This chapter could be renamed “God is Cleaning House” because it reveals God’s intention to address sin and purify His people.

Haggai 1

Throughout the book of Haggai, I saw a message of priorities and obedience.

Recap: A remnant of Israelites are now back in Jerusalem after being exiled for many years.

The prophet Haggai had some words for the people who were busy rebuilding their lives and not prioritizing God’s demands.

He warns the people “Give careful thoughts to your ways. You have planted much but harvested little.”