²⁰ And again the word of the Lord came to Haggai on the twenty-fourth day of the month (Dec 18, 520 b.c.), saying, ²¹ “Speak to Zerubbabel governor of Judah, saying, ‘I am going to shake the heavens and the earth. ²² I will [in the distant future] overthrow the thrones of kingdoms and destroy the power of the kingdoms of the [ungodly] nations; and I will overthrow the chariots and those who ride in them, and the horses and their riders will go down, every one by the sword of his brother [annihilating one another].

²³ On that day,’ declares the Lord of hosts, ‘I will take you, Zerubbabel, the son of Shealtiel, My servant,’ declares the Lord, ‘and I will make you [through the Messiah, your descendant] like a signet ring, for I have chosen you [as the one with whom to renew My covenant to David’s line],’” declares the Lord of hosts.

Haggai 2:20-23 (AMP)

More detailed prophecy

Yesterday, the prophecy was, “But from this day onward I will bless you.” That is a wonderful promise. It is not very specific. God now gives a more detailed prophecy – that will He shake things up (as He said in Haggai 2:6); overthrow world powers and elevate Zerubbabel to a high position. This is the last prophecy of Haggai and one of the last of the OT.

When is this shaking?

 The “million dollar question” with prophecy: When will it happen? Some commentators think it refers to political upheaval in the time of Zerubbabel but most think it is a future event. I’d agree. 

Was it at the coming of Christ? There was certainly a spiritual shaking (as well as physical at his death and resurrection events). Yes, that is likely.

It undoubtedly also refers to Christ’s second coming, when He will bring down all powers (worldly and spiritual) opposed to the rule of God and establish His Kingdom.

Zerubbabel -> Messiah 

If it refers to a future time, then Zerubbabel must represent Christ. JFB Commentary suggests, “Messiah is the antitypical Zerubbabel, their national Representative and King, with whom God the Father makes the covenant wherein they, as identified with Him, are assured of safety in God’s electing love”.

The good news

God and those on His side, those that serve Him, win in the end! The battle is the Lord’s. 

How does this motivate you? For me, it’s a reminder to tell others and encourage them to believe.