Habakkuk’s Heart

Even though the fig trees have no blossoms, and there are no grapes on the vines; even though the olive crop fails, and the fields lie empty and barren; even though the flocks die in the fields, and the cattle barns are empty, yet I will rejoice in the LORD! I will be joyful in the God of my salvation! The Sovereign LORD is my strength!

Habakkuk 3:17-19

Habakkuk had a “cup half full” perspective on life—his empty cup overflowed!

At first glance we wonder how Habakkuk could have had such a great outlook. It appears as though he and the rest of the people lived in desperate circumstances, with little to no source of income or food for their next meal. But he knew life ahead was secured by God, even though the current environment looked bleak and resources were scarce. Habakkuk focused his heart on God and trusted that the Lord would see them through seemingly impossible circumstances.

Just as God’s people had everything to look forward to in that situation, we have everything indescribably glorious to look forward to now! Our lot is sure. Yes, these days may be very difficult, with unknowns looming before us at every turn. It is tempting for us to curl up in fear or give in to discouragement and fatigue.

But one day we will see the Lord face to face and never know need again! We will never hurt or cry again. We will have glorious new bodies and a new home in heaven forever with Him. No matter what you and I or the people we love are facing at this very moment, no matter what fills our list of even thoughs, we still have the most amazing reason to rejoice.

Let’s you and I list our own personal even thoughs—

• Even though I just lost my spouse, home, health, job, savings . . .
• Even though I can’t have a baby . . .
• Even though I’m going through a messy divorce . . .
• Even though a serious illness lingers . . .

Even though my future seems hopeless, “yet I will rejoice in the LORD!”

“Lord, please give me a Habakkuk heart.” Pour out your list of even thoughs to God and, by faith, offer Him praise anyway!