During August, we reflect on God’s Word to the prophet Habakkuk. Our first reflection is based on Hab. 1:1-11 (ESV).
“For I am doing a work in your days that you would not believe if told” (Hab. 1:5b, ESV).
It’s August in Missouri. Some people are on a trip. Some are preparing for school. Some are happy. Yet some are anxious and long-suffering.
Habakkuk heard an oracle for Judah in 605 BC and his words bear on us. His complaint is God seems slow to respond to evil. “O LORD, how long shall I cry for help, and you will not hear? Or cry to you, ‘Violence!’ and you will not save? Why do you make me see iniquity, and why do you idly look at wrong?” (Hab. 1:2–3a, ESV).
There was a core of God’s faithful in Judah, but many had fallen to unbelief. Those who abandoned God’s ways were now worldly, bringing judgment on the whole people of God. Judah feared Assyria, yet the Lord was preparing an even worse rebuke. He was raising up Babylon to dole out consequences for Judah’s unbelief.
Habakkuk’s reaction is human. He doesn’t want faithful people to be punished with those who deserve it. He accuses God of not acting against the ungodly when He could. But through Habakkuk, God calls them all to repent.
The Lord made a covenant to preserve His own. He was keeping it by giving words to His prophet, so in hearing they would believe: “Look among the nations, and see; wonder and be astounded. For I am doing a work in your days that you would not believe if told” (Hab. 1:5, ESV). Even as their godly culture disintegrates, He’s in control over those who destroy what they value.
But this is all bad! How can You allow it? What good can ever come from Judah now?
Jesus will come from Judah. From this sorry remnant, God will raise up Christ to redeem His own. Our long-suffering is patience when guided by faith. The Lord has not forsaken us to our enemies.
Prayer: Father, help me trust. You sent Your Son to redeem all I have suffered, all I have lost. I see now that You were always at work on my behalf. Forgive me and have mercy in Jesus’ name. Amen.
Yours in Christ,
Rev. Craig D. Otto
First Vice President
Missouri District