SCRIPTURE: Habakkuk 1
OBSERVATION/APPLICATION:
Your eyes are too pure to look on evil; you cannot tolerate wrong. Why then do you tolerate the treacherous? Why are you silent while the wicked swallow up those more righteous than themselves? [Habakkuk 1:13]
Habakkuk is asking the ‘why’ question.
Why does God allow evil, why does God use a corrupt nation to punish His people?
How can God tolerate sin, how can God put up with injustice and abuse?
If God sees and knows everything, how is it possible for Him to endure it?
God’s initial answer so far is, ‘wait and see, I’ve got things under control.’
Is this a satisfying answer?

His disciples asked him, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?” “Neither this man nor his parents sinned,” said Jesus, “but this happened so that the work of God might be displayed in his life. [John 9:2-3]
The disciples ask Jesus a question about suffering but their question assumes an answer.
They assume that this man must be suffering because someone sinned.
Jesus responds that there is a higher purpose going on here – to display God’s work.
In other words, in some unknown way, ‘wait and see, I’ve got things under control, you will see what God is doing here!’
God’s power and purpose always trumps ours.
We need to keep pour focus on God, even when evil triumphs.
Do not allow sin and injustice to get you to dwell more on the power of evil than the power of God.
I tell you, my friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body and after that can do no more. But I will show you whom you should fear: Fear him who, after the killing of the body, has power to throw you into hell. Yes, I tell you, fear him. [Luke 12:4-5]

The bible gives some clues as to how and why God does what He does.
But in the end, it does not give us satisfying explanations for our ‘why’ questions.
Like Job, the only answer is, ‘remember Who I am, and who you are’.
I’ve got things under control, my work will be displayed through your circumstances.
Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies ? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God. Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows. [Luke 12:6-7]

God does not have to explain Himself to us.
He reminds us that He is God (all-powerful) and good (always loving), and urges us to trust in Him, to focus on Him, to wait for Him.
One day you will see God’s power and purpose, and then you will say, ‘oh, now I see!’

PRAYER:
Lord, when things are really hard, this answer is not satisfying. I will continue to ask ‘why’, but may I also keep my focus on You, even when I don’t get the answer.