Daily Reflections, Monday, January 7, 2008

Today's Scripture: Habakkuk 1:5

Habakkuk is one of the more obscure books of the Bible. Yet its text mirrors our own struggles to understand God’s timing and God’s will.

Habakkuk was a prophet in Israel during the time of Jeremiah. Like Jeremiah, his heart grieved at the lawlessness and injustice that prevailed. “How can God allow such evil?” he wondered.

God’s answer is like a cup of cool water to a weary soul. Centuries later, His words to the prophet still give us assurance that He is in charge. “I will work a work among you…that you will not believe.”

As Habakkuk’s cries entered the portals of Heaven, God was working behind the scenes, raising up a nation to punish Israel. And so it is with us, whatever our struggle. When it seems God’s hand is invisible. When it seems God has forsaken. When it seems God allows evil to go unchecked and unpunished.

In the midst of our worst nightmare, God is working out His will.

Perhaps you’re faced with unimaginable turmoil. Are you wondering when God will punish those who seem to do wrong and get away with it? Does it seem that God’s ways are being mocked in favor of open evil in your family, your workplace, or in your community?

God’s voice still rings true: “I will work a work among you.”

Today's Quote:  The central question is this: Can we trust God? Can we really take Him at His Word?