Read: Habakkuk 3
Habakkuk
made two complaints to God in chapters one and two and now in chapter three it seems
that he finally understands that God has a much bigger picture in mind than he
did. In verse 2 Habakkuk prays for
renewal. Knowing that they don’t
deserve revival he prays for mercy. The
basic ideas is, “Lord, I know that we deserve your wrath but in the midst of
your judgment remember mercy and send revival.”
In verses 3-15 Habakkuk speaks of the power of God on behalf of His
people. As Habakkuk prays for revival he
begins to praise the God who brings revival speaking of His glory and splendor
(v. 3-4) and deliverance (v. 13). The
chapter concludes with a statement of the prophet’s faith. Habakkuk shows the proper response,
recognizing his own weakness and low standing before God. The Babylonians are coming with God directing
their invasion. He speaks of a vision of
the desolate countryside yet in the midst of this devastation Habakkuk can
still rejoice (v. 18). The prophet
finally understands that the power and majesty of God does not diminish during
tough circumstances. He is no longer
questioning God’s ways. There is no joy
in the fig tree or the vines or in the fields or in the flock yet Habakkuk can
still find joy in His unchanging God, who is greater than the calamity to
come. Habakkuk rightly claims that he
would not put his trust in fig trees or vines or fields or flocks but only in
the Lord. He demonstrates this trust by
praising God.
Prayer and Journaling
1. How
does Habakkuk’s prayer inspire you to endure tough circumstances?
2. Even
though ruin and disaster is coming to Judah, Habakkuk realizes that God’s
judgments are merciful, which brings strength and joy. Ask the Lord to reveal to you 2-3 things
about His character that you can hold on to in the tough times. Thank Him for each one of them.
3. Re-read
Habakkuk 3:16-19. What lessons does God
want to speak into your heart today through these verses?
