Though It Tarries, Wait

The social conditions of Israel upset the prophet Habakkuk. He saw evil people prosper. And even though some individuals sought God, the nation as a whole did not. To make matters worse, God did not seem to answer his prayers.

In frustration and bitterness, Habakkuk cried out, O Lord, how long shall I cry, and You will not hear. (Hab. 1:2a NKJV)

Habakkuk received an answer he did not expect. God told him a great nation—Babylon—was being shaped as an instrument of judgment against Israel. Then God told him to write down the message for all to hear and understand—because it was a true message and people needed to receive the warning. Though it tarries, God said, wait for it; because it will surely come. . . . (2:3)

Our natural minds think Habakkuk would have been upset or disappointed. But although Habakkuk did not receive the answer he wanted, he forgot to complain.

Habakkuk rejoiced because had God had given him a message, and he responded with a hymn of praise. He initially listed all the things that bothered him or that could go wrong in his agricultural world. But after receiving God's message, he somehow knew that even if there were no figs or grapes, no laborers to harvest the olives, no grains—or if the sheep or cattle be lost, still he would say, Yet I will rejoice in the Lord. I will joy in the God of my salvation. (3:18)

Habakkuk's response is not surprising for a person who has heard God’s voice. Many people receive changed hearts when God comes to them or speaks to them. His Presence changes everything.

Originally published July 24, 1992.