Habakkuk

FROM innocent childhood queries to com-

plex university discussions, life is filled with

questions. Asking how and why and when,

we probe beneath the surface to find sat-

isfying answers. But not all questions have

answers wrapped and neatly tied. These un-

answered interrogations create more ques-

tions and nagging, spirit-destroying doubt.

Some choose to live with their doubts, ignor-

ing them and moving on with life. Others become cynical and hardened. But many reject those options and continue to ask, looking for answers. Habakkuk was a man who sought answers. Troubled by what he observed, he asked difficult questions. These questions were not merely intellectual exercises or bitter complaints. Habakkuk saw a dying world, and it broke his heart. Why is there evil in the world? Why do the wicked seem to be winning? He boldly and confidently took his complaints directly to God. And God answered with an avalanche of proof and prediction. The prophet’s questions and God’s answers are recorded in this book. As we turn the pages, we are immediately confronted with his urgent cries, “How long, O LORD, must I call for help? But you do not listen! ‘Violence is everywhere!’ I cry, but you do not come to save” (1:2). In fact, most of the first chapter is devoted to his questions. As chapter two begins, Habakkuk declares that he will wait to hear God’s answers to his complaints. Then God begins to speak, telling the prophet to write his answer plainly so that all will see and understand. It may seem, God says, as though the wicked triumph, but eventually they will be judged, and righteousness will prevail. Judgment may not come quickly, but it will come. God’s answers fill chapter two. Then Habakkuk concludes his book with a prayer of triumph. With questions answered and a new understanding of God’s power and love, Habakkuk rejoices in who God is and in what he will do. “Yet I will rejoice in the LORD! I will be joyful in the God of my salvation! The Sovereign LORD is my strength! He makes me as surefooted as a deer, able to tread upon the heights” (3:18, 19). Listen to the profound questions that Habakkuk boldly brings to God, and realize that you can also bring your complaints and inquiries to him. Listen to God’s answers and rejoice that he is at work in the world and in your life.

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When Habakkuk was troubled, he brought his concerns directly to God. After receiving God’s answers, he responded with a prayer of faith. Habakkuk’s example is ane that should encourage us as we struggle to move from doubt to faith. We don't have to be afraid to ask questions of God. The problem is not with God and his ways but with our limited understanding of him.

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