Dear Friends of "Dial Daily Bread,"
Habakkuk is a tiny little book tucked away in an obscure spot in the Old Testament where few people ever see it. The prophet had a very serious question that he asked the Lord: Why do You protect and prosper the wicked (chapter 1, verses 1-4)?
The Lord did not answer him all at once--good lesson for us! The prophet said, "I will stand my watch and set myself on the rampart, and watch to see what He will say to me" (2:1).
The prophet's question was eternal in its significance; it is just as up-to-date now as ever. The Lord welcomes our questions that trouble us. Ask those questions of Him seriously; don't be like a child who asks for something today and then forgets tomorrow that he asked. Bring your serious questions regarding how the Lord has treated you in your life, why this or that disappointment may have come to you, why He permitted it; pour out your heart before Him, hold nothing back.
Habakkuk 2, verse 1: Note, he waited for an answer. He was not impatient with the Lord. See how often the Psalmist brings his "complaint" before the Lord (55:2; 102, title: "The Lord's Eternal Love"; 142:2.) Be honest and straightforward with the Lord (after all, isn't He your "heavenly Father"?).
Habakkuk 2, verse 2: "Then the Lord answered me ..." He will "answer" you, too. It may be by a "still, small voice," but He will not despise your sincere prayer! Remember David's lesson he learned in deep repentance: "A broken and a contrite heart--these, O God, You will not despise" (Psalm 51:17). So, "Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need" (Heb. 4:16).
"Boldly"? Even though you have sinned?
Yes, for His forgiveness is great, as is His love (agape).
--Robert J. Wieland
From the "Dial Daily Bread" Archive: July 26, 2008.
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