Habakkuk 3

Jan 13, 2025    Pastor Daryl Zachman

“Though the fig tree may not blossom, nor fruit be on the vines; Though the labor of the olive may fail, and the fields yield no food; Though the flock may be cut off from the fold, and there be no herd in the stalls— Yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will joy in the God of my salvation.” (Habakkuk 3:17–18, NKJV)

 

Habakkuk began by complaining to the LORD. He didn’t like the violence, strife and injustice that he saw around him. God’s answer was that He was bringing the Babylonians to invade and destroy the land, but the just would live by faith. God was challenging Habakkuk to grow in his faith. Would he trust in the LORD no matter what happened?

 

It seems that our faith is always being tested. God uses circumstances—often negative ones—to stretch our faith and to make it stronger. He did it with Job; He was doing it with Habakkuk; and He will do it with us. He wants our faith to be based not on our circumstances, nor on how others treat us, nor on our finances, nor on how we feel, but on His promises and character. Because God never changes and His words never pass away, we have a sure foundation on which to build our faith. No matter what happens we can choose to rejoice in the LORD because He is good. Though we may be suffering now, goodness and mercy will follow us all the days of our lives, and we will dwell with Him forever (Psalm 23:6).

 

What are the matters that most trouble your heart? What are the things you most fear? Write them all down and spread them out before the Lord. Tell Him your concerns and how they make you feel. And then cast them all on Him because He cares for you (1 Peter 5:7). Your worry will turn to trust, and your sorrow will turn to joy.