Daily Bible Reading - October 2020: God’s Life-Giving Word of Justice and PeaceShembull

October 2 Introduction The LORD offers Habakkuk a vision of justice, saying that the Babylonians will be punished according to the way they have treated others. This vision is borne out by history: the Babylonians destroyed Jerusalem in 586 B.C. and stole the treasures of Israel’s temple. Yet by 539 B.C., the Babylonian leaders became so weak that King Cyrus of Persia captured the city of Babylon without a fight. Scripture Reading Habakkuk 2:1-20 Today’s Key Verse: Habakkuk 2:4 This is the message: “Those who are evil will not survive, but those who are righteous will live because they are faithful to God.” Reflect Habakkuk 2:4 is used by a number of New Testament writers (see Romans 1:17; Galatians 3:11; Ephesians 2:8; Hebrews 10:38). The “proud” (verse 5) likely refers to the Babylonians. But it also refers to those who take pride and place their trust in their own abilities, power or wealth rather than trusting God. Does pride ever interrupt your relationship with God? In verses 9-17, the messages of doom are most likely directed at the Babylonians. How will they be punished for the ways they have treated others? Pray Holy One, you alone are God. Forgive me for my foolish pride, and remind me that you are the source of all things. Make me a humble servant that I may become an agent of your justice and peace. Amen. Prayer Concern Legislative leaders Tomorrow’s Reading Habakkuk 3:1-19: Habakkuk prays to the LORD.