BIBLE thought: 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 (Habakkuk 3:17-18, NIV).
I often feel perplexed and confused, and I cry out to God like Habakkuk. It seems as though God does not listen (Hab.1:2). God explains to the prophet because of Israel’s rejection, He is raising up the Babylonians to come against His own people! Habakkuk is shocked at the prospect and twice asks, “Why?”
There’s so much in our world today I don’t understand. I don’t understand why people and nations can’t get along.
I don’t understand the frequent ravages of nature: floods, earthquakes, storms and famine. I don’t understand why our culture seems to be so far from God.
Like Habakkuk, I often ask, “Why?”
God assures the prophet the righteous will live by faith and He is in control from His Holy Temple (Hab 2:4, 20).
Somehow, it’s assurance enough for Habakkuk. I want it to be enough for me, too. No matter what happens in life around me, the prophet teaches me I can still rejoice in the Lord!
“Be good, keep your feet dry, your eyes open, your heart at peace and your soul in the joy of Christ.”
Thomas Merton
Bruce M. Henderson, minister, Airport Road Church of Christ, Carson City