Habakkuk 3:17
A pastor once famously said, “Disappointments are inevitable. Discouragement is a choice.” There is never a more true test of our faith than when God lets suffering into our lives. During times of trials do we still trust God and cling to Him even tighter? Or do we curse God and turn away from Him in despair? The prophet Habakkuk faced a similar decision. As a judgement from the Lord, the Babylonians were preparing to invade Judah. Destruction of Israel would follow and its people were headed for captivity. Yet even though his world was crumbling around him, and there would be no intervening from God, Habakkuk could still rejoice. For the silver lining in his dark cloud was God’s justice and mercy. And by focusing on God’s goodness, the prophet could say, “I will exult in the Lord, I will rejoice in the God of my salvation.” (Hab. 3:18) We may not always rejoice in our circumstances. But we can always rejoice in our Lord!
