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Habakkuk is frustrated by all the violence, turmoil, and injustice that surrounds him. It pains to him to see such hurt and suffering. He is not writing to a group of people, he is venting to a perceived absent God. Have you ever felt like Habakkuk? I have.
2 O Lord, how long shall I cry,
And You will not hear?
Even cry out to You, “Violence!”
And You will not save.
3 Why do You show me iniquity,
And cause me to see trouble?
For plundering and violence are before me;
There is strife, and contention arises.
4 Therefore the law is powerless,
And justice never goes forth.
For the wicked surround the righteous;
Therefore perverse judgment proceeds.
Habakkuk 1:1-4 NKJV
I look around at our world and can feel a similar frustration, there is so much hate, suffering, and violence. I do not make it a habit to read the news, but I glanced this morning. I just randomly picked a news website for a large metropolitan area. Here are their top headlines, the death of a 3-year-old child in foster care, Covid19, 2 arrested 3 wounded because of a gunfight, transgender sports bill and Cinco de Mayo. That is a lot to take in! In Habakkuk’s day, there was the Assyrian capture, the looming potential Babylonian takeover, and rampant sin. Habakkuk was frustrated and he called out to God.
Sometimes it is a struggle to get real with God, even though we know he already knows everything there are still little pieces we want to keep tucked away in the corners of our minds. Especially if that anger, frustration, or rage is directed at God. Do not allow things to fester in the darkness bring them to the light, give it to God, he can handle it! Express your thoughts and frustrations and then wait for God. Through open dialogue, our faith is molded, strengthened, and transformed.
Lord forgive me for the times I have been hesitant, to be honest with you. You are all-knowing and all-powerful, you see what I am trying to hide and are waiting on me to call out. You are a good, loving Father and you will listen. Let me be like Habakkuk and embrace direct dialogue knowing that you will hear me. Even in my darkest hour, you Lord are in control and have a plan for good! Thank you, Jesus, for your sacrifice on the Cross, your life poured out, your blood shed for me. We are Your people, and you are our God. -Amen
May the words that flow from me Lord be filled with Your message and when I am obedient may they be backed by the Holy Spirit. When I serve righteously let none of the words, I utter in praise of You fall to the ground. Help me to craft every word, may they pierce hearts and refresh weary souls. This gift is Yours; God I simply aim to use it for your glory.
–Love Cortney