yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my Savior. Habakkuk 3:18 NIV
We do not know much about the prophet and poet Habakkuk. He lived in the late seventh century before Christ. He stands out in biblical text because of his asking important questions about justice. His short book in the bible records his prayers and bold conversations with God. Full of poetry and praise for God, his writing is similar to that of King David.
The verse in Habakkuk declaring “I will be joyful in God my Savior” is followed by Habakkuk 3:19 which says, “The Sovereign Lord is my strength; he makes my feet like the feet of a deer, he enables me to tread on the heights. NIV” This scripture reminds the Christian of Philippians 4:13 which states, “I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me. WEB” The God of the bible is never changing. The Lord empowers his people with the ability to overcome all adversity.
Joyful In God
Habakkuk writes about troubles that appear on the horizon like enemies attacking or perceived lack of supply and boldly says in the face of trouble, “yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my Savior.”
The words of Jesus in John 16:33 tell us why we should not worry as he says, “These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world. KJV” We rejoice because Jesu Christ is our Savior. He has already won the victory over sin and death.
When the prophet looked over the ages and remembered what God does to deliver his faithful from trouble, he rejoiced and became joyful. As we trust in Christ, Habakkuk, trusted God as his Savior. The prophets let us know the nature of God and foretold the coming Savior we know as Jesus.
Prayer: “Father God, thank you for the beauty and truth of your holy word. Thank you for the prophets and salvation through Jesus Christ. Help me to better understand your word as I develop in my relationship with you. Keep me safe as I rejoice in you. In Jesus’ name – Amen”
Yesterday’s Devotional: Fear and Trembling
