The prophet who pled for the suffering of the righteous
Habakkuk 2:1~4 “See, he is puffed up; his desires are not upright--but the righteous will live by his faith.” (4) Hymn for scheduled worship: Korean/English Hymnal #435 Thou, My Everlasting Portion (#492 in previous version) We have received salvation through Jesus Christ and live according to God’s Word, but there are difficult times due to problems. It was the same for the Israelites. Before the Israelites were about to be destroyed due to the invasion of a mighty nation, a prophet named Habakkuk appeared. Habakkuk questions God why the Israelites who are in the covenant face suffering and are unable to receive answers even if they pray. What is the reason why we face problems and hardship even though we are children of God?
1. We must see God’s plan
When the Israelites faced hardship, God said that He himself raised the evil ones to torment Israel. It looked as if Israel was on the brink of destruction in worldly eyes, but God’s plan was hidden. If you complain before a problem, you cannot discover the answer that has already come right before you. No matter how much hardship you face, you must acknowledge that the powerful God who is in control of all creation is your father and Holy Spirit who is with you.
2. We must hold onto God’s Word
Many believers concentrate on the problem so much that they cannot listen to God’s Word correctly. We must first find God’s Word for that problem and hardship. God told the Prophet Habakkuk to write down the Word of God on stone tablets so that all will see. Also, He said to wait for the time of fulfillment of the Word even though it may take time. It is only for a while that the righteous suffer. You must engrave the Word from God on your heart and wait according to God’s guidance.
3. We must give thanks for everything
When you deeply meditate on God’s Word, you can discover God’s plan for the situation you were given. Then, you can give thanks even when you have lost everything. If you believe that it is God who has lifted and saved you from the fate of spiritual death, you will be restored of thanksgiving and praise. When your heart is filled with thanksgiving and not unbelief, the forces of darkness will crumble down and the works of the Holy Spirit will arise.
-It is said that the righteous will live by faith. Begin all events and work with the Gospel, and confirm the covenant God has given to you through problems. Immanuel Church Sunday Worship 2nd Service / 2012.6.3