Good Grief!

Habukkuk 1
2 O LORD, how long shall I cry for help, and you will not hear? Or cry to you “Violence!” and you will not save?
3 Why do you make me see iniquity, and why do you idly look at wrong? Destruction and violence are before me; strife and contention arise.
4 So the law is paralyzed, and justice never goes forth. For the wicked surround the righteous; so justice goes forth perverted.

We are to read Scripture in light of Scripture, getting a fuller understanding the more we take in the breadth of the Bible. It is hard to understand God’s wisdom in just a single verse. With these Minor Prophets I’ve emphasized the whole message we receive by their words. There is word of judgment, but also a promise of hope and restoration. At times it is even more than restoration as God promises to make something new for his people that is greater than what has come before.

I think this is a good practice. But as you read the Psalms or this intro to Habakkuk, it is good to see that at times we’re a people who grieve. We grow frustrated. The truth is still the truth–God is in control and at work. But we don’t always see it clearly.

God can handle this. He doesn’t want us to live in that place. But we can pass through it with all conviction, spilling over our fears, frustrations, and questions to God. He knows our weakness and we see in his Word that he is compassionate and is moved by our prayers. If you are going to be angry, just don’t try to hide it from God. He may have good word to share with you.

5 “Look among the nations, and see; wonder and be astounded. For I am doing a work in your days that you would not believe if told.”