God's Glory Church

“I will rejoice in the Lord… I will rejoice in the God of my salvation.” — Habakkuk 3:18

“I know dad will be home soon because he sent me flowers.” That’s what my seven-year-old sister told my mother when my father went missing in the war. Before leaving, he ordered flowers to be delivered to her home on her birthday. The order arrived at the appointed time, and there was no news of Dad. But the girl was right. Dad really did come home. He miraculously survived the brutal battle. She still keeps a vase of those flowers as a reminder to never lose hope.

Sometimes in our sinful, corrupt world it is not easy. Parents do not always return, and children’s wishes are not always fulfilled. However, God gives us hope. The prophet Habakkuk predicted the Babylonian invasion of Judah (Hab. 1:6; see 2 Kings 24), but at the same time emphasized that the Lord is always good (Hab. 1:12-13). Remembering God’s mercy to His people in the past, Habakkuk proclaimed: “If the fig tree had not blossomed, and there had been no harvest in the vineyards, if the olive had deceived the occupation, and if the field had not produced food, if the flock had gone out of the fold and if the cattle had not stopped in the stables, then I will rejoice in the Lord, and I will rejoice in the God of my salvation” (Av. 3:17-18).

Some interpreters believe that the name Habakkuk means “to cling to” or “to hold on to.” We will hold on to God as our main hope and joy, no matter what the trials may be, because He Himself holds us and will never let go.

How does joy in the Lord help you in difficult times? How can you glorify Him today?

Heavenly Father, no matter how difficult the path may be, I know that with You, a bright future awaits me. Thank you.

Author: James Banks