Habakkuk 3:17-19

This verse is wild because Habakkuk (whoever he is) is actually experiencing this. He is living in a time when the Babylonians are destroying his home and crops and animals. The term "God my Savior" stands out to me because it would appear that God is not a very good savior if all of the plants and animals are dying and Israel is being over run by invaders. You would think he might say "God my Abandoner" or something of the like. Instead, Habakkuk is saying that God is giving him joy and strength and salvation.

I think his response is two fold. First, I think Habakkuk is probably saying that God has given him a peace (salvation) that stronger and more joyful than any circumstances. That is powerful because if you think about it, no circumstance on earth is perfect. Every moment on earth is flawed. People die. Grades get bad. Parents get divorced or lose a job. There is no end to it. Unless we cling to God and His grace, we will never know peace or joy or strength that lasts more than 10 minutes.

Secondly, I think Habakkuk sees that God has long term plans for the evil in this world. He will eventually take care of all evil, either on the cross on in destruction.

For me, I relate to this most in ministry. There have been a few people that I have invested a large amount of my heart and time and prayer into that I feel like have produced no fruit. When I think about that, the gospel does not seem to be effective. I want to continue to believe that God is a powerful savior even when I cannot see that at the time.

Sad to not see you guys tonight. I hope to see you next week.