HabakkukSample

After Habakkuk's complaints were made and questions were asked, he received an unexpected response. God said, because of Israel’s unfaithfulness, He was raising up the Babylonian empire to punish the Israelites and their Assyrian masters. Habakkuk was surprised God planned to use such an evil nation like Babylon as an instrument of His will. God responds that in due time even the Babylonians will have to answer for their sins. He encourages Habakkuk that even though it may take a long time, God’s plans always go as He plans. Like Habakkuk, we can often feel discouraged or angry about our situation and events in the world, but God wants us to be patient. Even if it seems like a long way off, God’s plans are being worked out. His purposes both in our lives and in the world will be accomplished in time. Paul says in Romans, “All things work together for good for those who love Him.” We must learn to trust God even when we don’t understand why events occur the way they do.

Reflection Questions:

What is a time God has answered one of your prayers in a way that was unexpected?

Why do you suppose it is so hard to be patient while we wait for God’s plans?