“Though the fig tree should not blossom, nor fruit be on the vines, the produce of the olive fail and the fields yield no food, the flock be 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. God, the Lord, is my strength; he makes my feet like deer’s; he makes me tread on my high places. To the choirmaster: with stringed instruments.”
Habakkuk 3:17-19
Rejoicing in God flows from a heart that trusts and depends on Him. Such faith acknowledges that God is our strength and empowers us to be content with His provision in this life. The prophet Habakkuk expressed his total dependence on the sovereign will of God as the foundation of his hope. For historical context regarding this focus scripture, Habakkuk was a contemporary of Jeremiah, and it is believed that his prophetic ministry (609-598 B.C.) occurred during King Jehoiakim’s reign in Judah.
This was a time of an imminent threat from Babylon (Nebuchadnezzar II) and a visible deterioration of spiritual life in Judah, inviting the judgment of God. Fear and lack of provision were increasing all around him. Amid this pending judgment, Habakkuk was reminded of God’s character and saving power. He placed his full confidence in God for the future, regardless of the trials and tribulations to come. He trusted in our Divine Provider, not provision.
Fast forward, lostness still abounds in our post-modern society, where we witness a similar moral degeneration, paving the way for the exaltation of secularism. Additionally, the American church is experiencing spiritual decay due to its compromised witness and proclamation of the Gospel, thereby losing its influence in the public square. Many are suffering because of gross corruption and inequity in society.
Such realities can fill us with fear and doubt. However, like Habakkuk, we can rejoice in God when we are reminded that He will preserve us in seasons of abundance as well as in times of need. Paul taught (Philippians 4:11-13):
“…for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. (12) I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. (13) I can do all things through him who strengthens me (Phi 4:11-13).”
Our hope is refreshed when we recapture and hold fast to the truth that God is our Savior and that He works all things for the good of those who belong to Him (Romans 8:28-30). Patience and trust in the process God has established for our lives are key. Let us rejoice in the Lord, for in Him we place our hope. He is the source of our strength.
(Other suggested scripture reading for further study and reflection: Ps 27:14, Isa 40:28-31, Rom 12:12, 2 Pt 3:8-9)
Dr. Jason S. Price, Th.D
www.springoflivingwaters.com