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Video Primer: Habakkuk
Today we begin our journey through the book of Habakkuk. Throughout this plan, we’ll return often to the themes and questions this small but powerful book raises—wrestling with God, waiting in faith, and trusting His justice even in the face of chaos.
Before diving into today’s reading, take a few minutes to watch the BibleProject overview video below. This visual guide will help you understand the people, place, and purpose behind Habakkuk’s message, giving valuable context for what you’re about to read. These videos are more than summaries—they’re rich tools that bring clarity to God’s Word and help us see how ancient truths still speak to our lives today.
Don’t skip the video! It’s only about seven minutes long, but it will deepen your understanding and focus your heart. We encourage you to find a quiet moment—away from distractions—where you can really watch, listen, and reflect. Let this short time of intentional focus help set the tone for how you approach God’s Word in this season.
Hearts Laid Bare
Today’s readings begin with a complaint—or what Scripture often calls a lament—a prayer of raw honesty before God. Lament is the language of the faithful when life feels overwhelming or confusing. It often begins with questions like, “How long, O Lord?” or “Why is this happening?”
Habakkuk looks around and sees violence, injustice, and the triumph of the wicked. He cries out to God, longing for answers and help.
In our Gospel reading, we witness Jesus unsettling the religious elite as He is anointed by a sinful woman. Her love is bold and extravagant. Jesus’ words are piercing:
“But whoever has been forgiven little loves little.” (Luke 7:47b, NIV)
We may not live in the exact circumstances of Habakkuk or this woman, but we’ve all felt the weight of sorrow and the joy of grace. How is God calling you to respond today? What lament needs to be lifted? What act of love or worship might reflect what Christ has done for you?
When you reach the comment section, take a moment to write a prayer—a cry of lament or a song of adoration—as a response to what the Holy Spirit is revealing to you today.
Primer contributed by Logan Beardsley, Lead Pastor at Cornerstone Community Church of Chowchilla.
Scripture
About this Plan
In this 17th installment of Reading with the People of God, we continue following a lectionary rhythm—Old Testament, New Testament, and Psalms. This plan explores the prophetic voices of Micah, Habakkuk, and Isaiah, who confronted kings and warned of coming judgment while pointing to the hope of the Messiah. Alongside these, we'll read from the Gospel of Luke and the book of Acts, tracing the life of Christ and the birth of the Church. As we read these powerful passages in parallel, may the Spirit shape us and grow us in Christ together.
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We would like to thank Cornerstone Community Church for providing this plan. For more information, please visit: https://ccchowchilla.com
