Volume 4 Post/Email 8 – Faith(#8)
As best biblical scholars can tell, Habakkuk was written in 607 B.C. just prior to the Bablyonian invasion and exile of Judah by Nebuchadnezzar. This event results in thousands of casualties and loss of freedom for the survivors.
The first 2 chapters describe a conversation between God and the prophet Habakkuk about why this is happening to all of Judah, including the "righteous".
Chapter 3 concludes with a prayer set to music (v.1, 19). The end of the prayer is a powerful expression of faith, as Habakkuk tells God that no matter how bad circumstances become, he will continue to rejoice in the Lord. May this reading bless us.
3:17-19 "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 Savior. The Sovereign LORD is my strength; he makes my feet like the feet of a deer, he enables me to go on the heights." For the director of music on my stringed instruments.
Reflection question: Would my current faith be described accurately as one of worship and rejoicing when circumstances are challenging or unpleasant?
-Brian
