Rejoice, Even When it is Bad

O. T. #2240 "Rejoice, Even When it is Bad"

July 21, 2022

Summary of Habakkuk 

LET IT GLOW

Nothing is known about Prophet Habakkuk. He was a contemporary of Jeremiah, Ezekiel, Daniel, and Zephaniah. He prophesied during the final days of the Assyrian Empire, who conquered the Northern Kingdom Israel. 

Babylon began their military march through Nineveh in 612 BC; then in 605BC, began on their way to Jerusalem. The Temple was destroyed in 586; in 536 Babylon fell to the Medes and Persians. King Cyrus was in charge then. After 70 years in exile, the Israelites rebuilt the Temple in 516 BC. 

That gives us a perspective on events during this time. Wickedness was happening during the dark days of Habakkuk. Judah had turned away from God. Prophets warned of God's judgment if they did not repent and change. History tells us it did not happen, so God used armies to discipline His people.

God gave the prophet a vision of what was to come. Then he had questions for God: How long must I cry out for help? Must I see these evil deeds, destruction, and violence forever? 

God answered that Habakkuk would be amazed, wonder marvellously in what He would do. The Babylonians were coming. (1:5)

God can do amazing things, dear one. Sometimes it is better than we imagined, other times worse. Yet, He is in charge and knows how to break hard hearts.

LET IT GROW

In 2:3, the prophet is told to wait patiently, for it will surely take place; it won't be delayed. Then we are told, the just shall live by faith. (2:4)

But the LORD is in His holy temple. Let all the earth keep silent before Him. (2:20)

Habakkuk asks God to remember His mercy in His anger. (3:2)

His ways are everlasting. (3:6)

Even when the fields are empty, no sheep or cows, rejoice in the LORD. Be joyful in our salvation. Make Him your strength. Keep walking by faith. God has this.

LET IT GO 

You are the maker of the rain and sunshine, Oh LORD God.

We will praise You, for You are worthy of praise, even if You do not send us rain today.

I am a child of the Most High God and You are for me.

You hold eternity in Your hands.

Thank You, Jesus, for providing our salvation!