Habakkuk

Habakkuk was written by the prophet Habakkuk to the people of Judah around 605 BC. Habakkuk expresses a complaints and laments to God. God responds to Habakkuk with divine insight. Habakkuk responds with a hymn expressing his confidence in God's expected victory.

Habakkuk's Complaint - Chapter 1

Habakkuk expresses a complaint to God for the injustice and violence around him. He questions God, asking why He seems indifferent to the suffering of the righteous. The prophet observes that the law is ineffective, justice is perverted, and the wicked oppress the righteous, which leaves him to wonder how long this will continue without divine intervention.

The LORD's Answer

God responds to Habakkuk by revealing His plan to raise up the Babylonians to bring judgment on the nations. Babylon follows their own law and worship their own strength. They will sweep across the land, conquering and destroying with terrifying power, leaving devastation in their wake.

Habakkuk's Second Complaint

Habakkuk questions why God would use a wicked nation like Babylon to punish others. He questions how a holy God can tolerate the evil of Babylon. He compares humanity to defenseless fish, easily caught and destroyed by the Babylonians, who ruthlessly conquer and exploit other nations without mercy.

The LORD's Answer - Chapter 2

Habakkuk waits on God’s response, and God instructs him to record His vision clearly, promising that it will be fulfilled in its appointed time that will not delay. God contrasts the proud, who are corrupt and greedy, with the righteous, who live by faith. God pronounces five woes against the Babylonians for hoarding stolen goods, building wealth through unjust gain, establishing cities by bloodshed, giving drink to neighbors to exploit them, and worshiping worthless idols. Their actions will lead to their own downfall as their victims rise against them. God declares His sovereignty, that He is in His holy temple, and all the earth must be silent before Him, the ultimate authority.

Habakkuk's Prayer - Chapter 3

Habakkuk prays, acknowledging God’s past deeds and expressing awe at His power. He asks God to renew His mighty works in their time, pleading for mercy even in wrath. Habakkuk recounts God’s majestic presence, describing how His glory covered the heavens, and His power shook the earth, causing mountains to crumble and nations to tremble. Habakkuk depicts God as a warrior who brings deliverance to His people and crushes the wicked. Despite his fear of coming judgment, Habakkuk decides to wait patiently for the invader’s downfall. He expresses unwavering faith and chooses to rejoice in the LORD even in times of desolation.