How can we learn to trust God in this way? A closer look at these verses reveals some concepts that help us to trust God more.
First, Habakkuk commits to praising God regardless of external circumstances. The opening of his hymn delineates a catastrophe: 1) no fruit on the fig trees, 2) no grapes growing on the vines, 3) no olives, 4) no produce of any kind, 5) a lack of sheep, and 6) a lack of cattle. After this doleful description, the prophet says, “Yet I will rejoice in the Lord.”
Habakkuk’s joy was not dependent on physical blessings. Even if Habakkuk suffered extreme loss, he was determined to praise God. Habakkuk remembered God’s goodness in times past and concluded God was worthy of praise. The prophet might lack olives and grapes, but he would never be without God.
Second, Habakkuk praises God specifically for salvation: “I will take joy in the God of my salvation.” God not only
could save; God
is salvation. Interestingly, the title “God of my salvation” is used seven times in the Old Testament. Five of these are found in the Psalms (18:26; 25:5; 27:9; 51:14; 88:1), one in Habakkuk, and the other in
You do not have permission to view the full content of this post.
Log in or register now..
Third, Habakkuk recognizes the Lord as His strength: “GOD, the Lord, is my strength.”
