IIT UBF - University Bible Fellowship at IIT

Daily Bread

Introduction to Habakkuk

Key Verse: 1:5a

First, why do you make me look at injustice? (1-4) Habakkuk brought a compelling issue to the Lord. It seemed to him that injustice abounded. He saw it every day. But where was the Lord? Based on what he was looking at, it seemed to Habakkuk that the Lord did not listen, that God tolerated wrong and that his word in the law was powerless.

Second, God's response (5-11). God answered by telling Habakkuk to watch and be amazed, and by opening his will to the prophet. He was raising up the Babylonians to execute his judgment on sin. The Lord is patient, but his judgment is sure and swift. He does not tolerate wickedness forever.

Third, then why do you tolerate the treacherous? (1:12-2:1) Habakkuk could accept that the Lord is the judge and had ordained such a punishment for Israel, but why the Babylonians? They were far more wicked than the people of Israel. There was no answer that the prophet could see, but he did as the Lord commanded. He would be like a watchman, looking and seeking God in the matter.

Prayer: Lord, you are the Judge of all the earth. Make me a watchman in our times. Raise up prophets who seek you today.

One Word: Look and watch-and be amazed!