EXPLORE IT - Habakkuk 3

This week we conclude our journey through the Book of Habakkuk by looking at Habakkuk 3.  We began by looking at Habakkuk’s first address to God, asking about the corruption of the Israelites and how it was possible that God did not intervene.  God replied, assuring Habakkuk that there was indeed a plan.  God informed Habakkuk of how He was going to utilize the Babylonians to bring judgment to the Israelites.  God’s answer troubled Habakkuk and he once more approached God, looking to gain understanding into how God could use the Babylonians, a group of people much more corrupt that the Israelites, as a conduit for punishment.  God again replies to Habakkuk, saying that the Babylonians will also receive their judgment, but it will be in God’s timing.

In chapter 3, Habakkuk concludes his account with a psalm of praise.  Habakkuk’s concerns are settled in his mind and heart and he stands, “in awe of (God’s) deeds” (3:2b).  In 3:16-18, Habakkuk speaks to his own nerves and anxieties about the future, knowing that his nation will be invaded by the Babylonians, knowing that there will be much destruction, but in the end Habakkuk chooses to, “rejoice in the LORD” and “be joyful in God my Savior” (3:18).  He places his trust in God.

We, like Habakkuk, are oftentimes “thrown off” by life.  Maybe we too are distraught over the injustices in the world and wonder why God doesn’t bring down judgment.  Maybe we too witness unfair things in our lives or the lives of loved ones and question why God doesn’t make things “right.”  Maybe life has seemingly gotten off course and we don’t understand where God is in all of this.  But, we, like Habakkuk, must also conclude that no matter what is going on, we will rejoice and be joyful in the Lord.  We must live, knowing that He is our strength; we must place our trust in God!

Blessings,
Pastor Amy