Though the fig tree should not blossom, nor fruit be on the vines, the produce of the olive fall and the fields yield no food, the flock is cut off from the fold and there be no herd in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the Lord; I will take joy in the God of my salvation.
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Habakkuk 3:17-18
It is a tiny book with only three chapters, but the prophet Habakkuk has powerful insights to share in the book that is named after him. Israel was morally and spiritually corrupt; the political arena was in just as much turmoil. Habakkuk was troubled and had questions for God about what was happening. Circumstances had shaken his faith – “destruction and violence are before me… justice goes forth perverted” (Habakkuk 1:3-4). His prayer seemed unanswered.
Habakkuk anticipated great suffering with the onslaught of the coming Chaldean army. Today’s verse explains that the fig tree would not blossom, the vines and olive trees would not be producing, and there would be no food from the field. And yet… Habakkuk’s response should be an example for you; he looked up and trusted God, saying, “Yet I will rejoice in the Lord; I will take joy in the God of my salvation” (Habakkuk 3:18).
The prophet pondered the greatness of God, His purity and holiness, and His sovereignty over Creation. Though an even more corrupt nation would overthrow Israel, holding them captive for 70 years, the Lord assured Habakkuk that “the righteous shall live by his faith” (Habakkuk 2:4). Thus Habakkuk praised God… for He is holy, almighty, faithful, and eternal.
Circumstances around you may cause you to tremble, as they did for Habakkuk, but God is above your circumstances. Let Him be your strength, your song, for He is your salvation. Rely on Him. Pray for those who lead in this nation that they may turn to God for understanding and wisdom. Then rejoice. Let your worry turn to worship. Know that God is at work. Rest in Him.
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