Today’s readings will be divided, Habakkuk today and Zephaniah tomorrow.
SCRIPTURE: Habakkuk 1:1-3:19
“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 first questions God on why He is not responding to their cries for help (1:1-4).
Then he asks God how He can use immoral people to punish the chosen people (1:12-2:1).
God reminds him that He is God, and that He will hold all people accountable.
One day all people will stand in silence before God, and then everything will be made clear (2:20).
Habakkuk concludes with this amazing prayer of faith.
He basically says, ‘no matter what happens, I will keep on rejoicing in the Lord’.
Like Paul and Silas in chains singing and praising God (Acts 16:25, Philippians 4:4).
Every time something goes wrong, every time things seem like they are falling apart.
Even when it seems that evil is winning, and goodness is losing, ‘I will be joyful’.
God and good will win, hope will triumph over despair.
History has been filled with low points, but good has eventually triumphed.
Not even death can rob us of hope, because God has overcome death.
We will all stand in silence before the Creator and Father of the Universe.
And we will see how all things – including bad things – worked together for good.
Whether you feel it or not, faith it: “I will rejoice in the Lord, 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!
Jesus follower
trying to find His way
Observation/Application
God answers prayers. But . . . when? In my talks with God do I see His works? God works in mysterious ways His wonders to perform and I need to see how God works His powers and wonders.
The wickedness of the people will visit them one day, those who trust in their own power and craftiness will all come to nothing for the earth is the Lord’s! God is in His holy empale. Let all the world keep silent. He is God! Our world is the Lord’s. The destruction people bring upon themselves, the desolation, the lack of crops, animals does not minimize God’s power and strength. He is in control. He is in charge. He lets man ‘rule’ =self destructing. God is still at work.
God is my Strength and Refuge enabling me to live ever day as a day of the Lord for it is in His power I go forward always.
1. God gives His people strength.
If we believe in His way, He’s swift to repay
All those who bear the burden of the day
God gives His people strength.
2. God gives His people hope
If we but trust in His word, our prayers are always heard
He warmly welcomes anyone who’s erred.
God gives His people hope.
3. God gives His people love
If we but open wide our hearts, He’s sure to do His part
He’s always the first to make a start.
God gives His people love.
4. God gives His people peace.
When sorrow fills us to the brim, and courage grows dim
He lays to rest our restlessness in Him.
God gives His people peace.