Now therefore, thus says the Lord of hosts, “Consider your ways and thoughtfully reflect on your conduct!

“Speak now to Zerubbabel the son of Shealtiel, governor of Judah, and to Joshua the son of Jehozadak, the high priest, and to the remnant of the people, saying,

‘Who is left among you who saw this house (temple) in its former glory? And how do you see it now? Does it not seem to you like nothing in comparison?

But now be courageous, Zerubbabel,’ declares the Lord, ‘be courageous also, Joshua the son of Jehozadak, the high priest, and be courageous, all you people of the land,’ declares the Lord, ‘and work; for I am with you,’ declares the Lord of hosts.

“Thus says the Lord of hosts, ‘Ask the priests for a ruling:

But now, do consider [what will happen] from this day forward: before one stone was placed on another in the temple of the Lord,