Rejoice in the Lord: A Study in HabakkukNäide

What does it say?

Habakkuk’s prayer describes God Himself, dressed as a warrior, coming down from Heaven, and causing the heavens and the earth to tremble at His power.

What does it mean?

Several times in the Bible, God is pictured as the ultimate warrior – establishing His authority over His creation with absolute power. Even neutral bystanders like the sun, moon, mountains, and rivers yield to His power as He moves directly and swiftly toward Israel’s enemies to defeat them. Habakkuk reassured God’s people that even in times of great economic distress, when the crops are dead, and there is no livestock, they could rejoice in the God of their salvation. He would be their strength when circumstances reached a point of desperation.

How should I respond?

How can we be joyful when facing trials (James 1:2-3)? We’re certainly not joyful because we are suffering; the natural reaction to suffering is sorrow. However, the lesson we learn from Habakkuk is this: joy is not found in the moment’s circumstances but in the fact that the God we trust is absolutely powerful and righteous in the universe. Are you facing something that causes feelings of depression or even hopelessness? Change your focus to think about God’s authority and ability to fight on your behalf. How do those thoughts change your perspective today?