Introduction

The book of Habakkuk, a minor prophet in the Old Testament, is a profound dialogue between the prophet and God, addressing the perplexing issue of divine justice. Habakkuk's response of faith is encapsulated in the third chapter, where he transitions from questioning God's ways to a posture of trust and worship. This response is a model of faith amidst confusion and adversity.

Context

Habakkuk prophesied during a time of great turmoil and moral decline in Judah, likely around the late 7th century BC, before the Babylonian exile. The prophet is deeply troubled by the rampant injustice and violence in his society and questions why God seems indifferent to the wickedness around him. The book begins with Habakkuk's complaints and God's surprising response that He will use the Babylonians, a more wicked nation, to execute judgment on Judah.

Habakkuk's Dialogue with God

In the first two chapters, Habakkuk engages in a candid dialogue with God. He begins with a lament, "How long, O LORD, must I call for help, but You do not listen?" (Habakkuk 1:2). God's response that He will raise the Babylonians as an instrument of judgment perplexes Habakkuk further, leading him to question God's justice: "Why then do You tolerate the treacherous?" (Habakkuk 1:13).

God's second response assures Habakkuk that the Babylonians will also face judgment in due time. The Lord emphasizes that "the righteous will live by his faith" (Habakkuk 2:4), a pivotal statement that underscores the necessity of faith in God's ultimate justice and sovereignty.

Habakkuk's Prayer and Response of Faith

Chapter 3 marks a significant shift in Habakkuk's tone and perspective. It is a prayer, often considered a psalm, that reflects a deep trust in God despite the impending calamity. Habakkuk begins by recalling God's past deeds and mighty acts of deliverance, which serve as a foundation for his faith: "LORD, I have heard the report of You; I stand in awe of Your deeds" (Habakkuk 3:2).

The prophet vividly describes God's power and majesty, drawing on imagery from Israel's history, such as the Exodus and the conquest of Canaan. This recollection of God's faithfulness in the past reassures Habakkuk of His continued sovereignty and justice.

Expression of Trust

Habakkuk's response culminates in a profound declaration of trust and joy in God, regardless of circumstances. He acknowledges the potential devastation that the Babylonian invasion will bring, yet he resolves to rejoice in the Lord: "Though the fig tree does not bud and no fruit is on the vines... yet I will exult in the LORD; I will rejoice in the God of my salvation!" (Habakkuk 3:17-18).

This expression of faith is not contingent on external conditions but is rooted in the character and promises of God. Habakkuk's declaration serves as a powerful testament to the sustaining power of faith in the face of uncertainty and suffering.

Conclusion

Habakkuk's response of faith is a timeless example of trusting in God's wisdom and sovereignty, even when His ways are inscrutable. The prophet's journey from doubt to faith encourages believers to hold fast to God's promises and to find joy in His presence, regardless of life's challenges.