Habakkuk 3:17-18

New International Version (NIV) 

Though the fig tree does not bud
and there are no grapes on the vines,
though the olive crop fails
and the fields produce no food,
though there are no sheep in the pen
and no cattle in the stalls,
yet I will rejoice in the Lord,
I will be joyful in God my Savior.

For meditation

On my daily drive to work, I observe the streets lined with beggars. Some are mothers with children and nursing babies. Their entire lives depend on the kindness and generosity of motorists. What amazes me is their demeanor. They are always happy and almost carefree – particularly, the children. They play and have fun, while the mothers chat and feed their babies. When I look at them and then I look at myself sitting in my car, grumpy and sulking over petty issues, I ask myself: “What is wrong with me?” How could they, who could only hope for somebody’s compassionate gesture, enjoy life while I have chosen to be miserable?

The prophet Habakkuk discovered an eternal truth that cleared his vision in a similar situation. After his dialogue with God, Habakkuk learned that true joy does not depend on external circumstances (Hab. 1:2; 2:20). It depends on an absolute trust in God and His faithfulness (18). With that cleared perspective, Habakkuk could rejoice. His joy was in nothing but God, who is his savior.

Many times, we allow our circumstances to dictate the way we feel about life. We permit our feelings to overshadow God’s faithfulness. Fear sweeps hope away, and leaves us dreary. But circumstances should not dictate our feelings about life. Only hope in Jesus Christ should. Those who put their trust in Him can find hope in every situation and maintain a positive attitude through it all. So let me ask you:

1. Yesterday, you were high on the Lord and singing His praises; what happened today?
2. Has God changed?
3. Has He gone blind, deaf and dumb that He can’t empathize with your situation?
4. Why have you allowed your circumstances to control your mood and perspective?
5. Can you look to Jesus and trust Him for a brighter tomorrow?

I pray you’ll exalt God’s faithful promises and declare with Habakkuk, that “Though the fig tree does not bud … yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my Savior” (Hab. 3:17-18). That’s unconditional and unrestrained joy!

So: Even though your circumstances may remain the same, may your attitude be renewed in Christ, as you lift your eyes to Him in your crisis!

Shalom