No Matter What
God told Habakkuk He would bring judgment on Israel with the Chaldeans. In three chapters, Habakkuk went from mourning his country’s sins, to questioning why God would bring judgment on them by the country more wicked than they, to determining to praise God no matter what.
Though the fig tree should not blossom and there be no fruit on the vines, though the yield of the olive should fail and the fields produce no food, though the flock should be cut off from the fold and there be no cattle in the stalls, yet I will exult in the Lord, I will rejoice in the God of my salvation. The Lord God is my strength, and He has made my feet like hinds’ feet, and makes me walk on my high places. (Habakkuk 3:17–19)
Several years ago, I had a serious eye problem many miles from my regular doctors. I received very concerning news about my condition and the possible consequences. On the long drive home, I was little help with navigation because I couldn’t read the (huge) road signs until it was too late.
During this scary time, I learned a lot about God’s sovereignty and love. He is my loving sovereign and would be with me no matter what happened with my eyesight.
I made Habakkuk’s statement into my own. (See When Storms Come, page 193.)
In these difficult times, I urge you to use Habakkuk to develop your own prayer, identifying what is most concerning to you, and determining to praise God no matter what.
Determine now to pray:
Though [this horrible thing happens]
And even if [I suffer this specific loss]
And, even worse, if [some disaster comes]
Yet I will praise God for […]
I will rejoice in His […], etc.
~~~
Praise God!
