Hidden in the pages of the Old Testament is the small book of Habakkuk. In this book we see that God does not look kindly on sin and disobedience. The people of God are told time and time again to repent and turn from their evil ways. God rises up a foreign nation to bring judgement on the nation of Israel. In every generation, sin demands repentance or judgement. Also, in every generation there is a call to live a life of devotion to God and faith in Him (Habakkuk 2:4).
Habakkuk starts his book by praying, “How long, Oh LORD, will I cry and you will not hear me?” Habakkuk is discouraged and growing weak in his faith by the circumstances that he sees in the nation he loves. However, in verse 12 of Chapter 1, we see faith begin to rise in Habakkuk as he reminds himself that God is, “from everlasting…” He realized that God rose up the foreign nation to bring about judgment and correction to a stubborn and disobedient Israel.
In Chapter 2 the LORD makes it clear that sin and disobedience will not go unpunished. There is always a price to pay for sin. In Chapter 3 I believe we see the answer and solution to all the confusion, discouragement and despair that Habakkuk faces. Chapter 3 begins with the words, “A prayer of Habakkuk”. Habakkuk cries out to God for mercy. In verse 18 and 19 of Chapter 3, Habakkuk realizes and reminds himself and the reader that God is our salvation and our strength. Therefore, He can be trusted!
