The book of Habakkuk is one of the shortest in the Old Testament. The prophet's perspective on life undergoes an extraordinary metamorphosis in its three brief chapters. He expresses the depths of despair in his opening lines, but by the end of the book, he has reached new heights of delight.
What led to this astonishing transformation? Why did Habakkuk open with an objection and close with a hymn of praise? Three verses in chapter two have the solution. The concerned prophet heard from the Almighty God not only that the wicked will face judgement, but also that "the just shall live by his faith" (v. 4).
Along with this, he stated that one day the earth will "be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the Lord, as the waters cover the sea" (v. 14). He then gave him the assurance that "the Lord is in His holy temple" (v. 20). Habakkuk was in need of these magnificent insights to help him overcome his severe depression. He overcame his discouraging circumstances by keeping his focus on God and discovered a source of enduring delight in the Lord.
Like the prophet, we too must live by faith and anticipate the wonderful day when Jesus will come again to establish His kingdom of righteousness and peace on earth. The key to genuine joy is to keep our faith in Him!
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