Habakkuk the prophet saw it all and shares with us a portion of what was likely a lengthy conversation between him and God. The account is shared in none other than the Old Testament book of Habakkuk. It’s short — only three short chapters — but it is rich in the transforming understanding of who God is and the fullness of His glory!
How long, Lord, must I call for help, but you do not listen? Habakkuk 1:2
Habakkuk wrestled with recognizing the presence of God in the midst of difficult times. He continues to question God in His allowance of wrongdoing and injustice, His tolerance of evil and conflict. Habakkuk has forgotten for whom God exists! He forgets that God is writing a story, but the detour in that great story must include the existence of unfortunate and sad circumstances because of the presence of sin. And this often gives the false appearance of God’s absence.
God then, in chapter two, reminds Habakkuk of His great plan, His grand purpose and His holy splendor! And Habakkuk’s eyes open to seeing, believing and trusting in the promises of God. He finally realizes the message of rescue God has for His people.
You came out to deliver your people, to save your anointed one. Habakkuk 3:13a
I cannot imagine the moment Habakkuk realized this truth! His countenance changed, his life changed! How he trusted in God changed and the depth of understanding of the love God has for him and His people was immeasurable. Because, when all was lost, when nothing else was left, Habakkuk praised the One who enables! It’s another great example of God’s whisper throughout time of His inevitable rescue!
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 Savior. The Sovereign Lord is my strength; he makes my feet like the feet of a deer, he enables me to tread on the heights. Habakkuk 3:17-19
Lord Jesus, remind me of your grand plan for me! Continue to teach me of the joy I have in you because I belong to you! I do rejoice . . . may I always rejoice . . . even when I have nothing, because with you I have everything!