September 11, 2020

BIBLE READING: Habakkuk 1:13-2:1
“I will stand upon my watch, and set me upon the tower, and will watch to see what he will say unto me, and what I shall answer when I am reproved.” Habakkuk 2:1

In our passage today, we see Habakkuk responding to God’s answer of the coming judgement from Babylon. From verses 12-17, Habakkuk is still recognizing God’s character, but he remains confused. He wonders why God would allow such a terrible nation to take Israel. Habakkuk compares Babylon to cruel fishers who kill just for fun. Habakkuk realizes that God sees the sin. In fact, sin is not hidden from God. Habakkuk knows that God is sovereign, but he does understand what God is doing. This burdens his heart even more. The way this book is written, we cannot help but think maybe Habakkuk was inspired by Psalms. Though Habakkuk is pleading with a heavy heart as he has questions, we see Habakkuk still recognizes God’s sovereignty and goodness. Habakkuk was trusting God in this uncertain news. As the Psalms were influenced throughout this book, Psalm 18:30 is a wonderful reminder of God’s perfect way and how we can trust in Him. “As for God, his way is perfect: the word of the LORD is tried: he is a buckler to all those that trust in him.” Then Habakkuk proclaims that he will remain faithful to watch and wait on the Lord. Prophets were often compared to a watchmen relaying information of things to come. Though there were many things that were unsure, Habakkuk is saying that he will remain faithful to wait on the Lord. Though judgement was coming for sin, he knew God would fulfill the promise of the Messiah. As we look at Christ, the promise was accomplished and fulfilled on the cross. We, like Habakkuk can find ourselves in situations we may not understand. As we wait on the Lord, we must look to Calvary and fix our eyes on Jesus. What is opened there is the faithful love of Christ! When we do not understand, we can rest unsure that God is near, because He is a faithful God. That reminds me of these comforting verses. Lamentations 3:22-23 “It is of the LORD’S mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.”

David Fulp II