1. Survival in a hard land (2:1-2,68-70)

The land had become a wilderness, so life was hard. But the returned exiles first gave a free-will offering for the rebuilding of the temple. Then they began the hard task of surviving.

2. Rebuilding the altar (3:1-6)

Spiritual survival was most urgent. The people of the land were godless and materialistic, so it was not easy for the returned exiles to have a clear identity as God's people. They overcame fear, rebuilt the altar and began worshiping God in the way prescribed in the Bible.

3. Laying the temple foundations (7-13)

Laying foundations is hard. It requires a decision of faith, much work and sacrifice, and co-working. When the foundations were laid, all the people shouted praise to the Lord. Some shouted for joy, some wept in sorrow, but all praised the Lord.

Application: Lord, help us to lay spiritual foundations through 1:1 Bible study.
One Word: Overcome fear; lay foundations