THE STORY OF JESUS: Habakkuk 1-3
“Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines,
though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there
are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice
in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my Saviour.” (Habakkuk 3:17-18)
Habakkuk is struggling with WHY God allows suffering (1:1-4,12-2:1).
God reminds him that He is God; He will hold all people accountable.
Habakkuk responds with this amazing prayer of faith.
‘No matter what happens, I will keep on rejoicing in the Lord’.
Like Paul and Silas in chains praising God (Acts 16:25, Philippians 4:4).
Even if all hope is gone, and I face death, “I will be joyful in the Lord.”
History has been filled with low points, but good has eventually triumphed.
Not even death can steal this hope, because God has overcome death.
One day we will all stand in silence before God (2:20).
We will see how all things – even bad things – worked together for good.
If you don’t feel it, faith it: “I will be joyful in God my Saviour.”
What do you sense the Lord saying to you?
PRAYER
Lord, I pray especially for those who are going through sorrow or suffering, help them to hang on to You. Be close enough for them to know that You are holding on to them, and will get them through this!