Rejoicing in the Lord
Scripture Reading — Habakkuk 3:17-19
Though … the fields produce no food … yet I will rejoice in the Lord … in God my Savior.
Habakkuk 3:17-18
Drought, crop failure, war, hunger— these were common fears and events in ancient times. The same is true for many countries in the world today. Even if we live in a more secure environment, we can experience other, painfully real challenges to our faith.
What do you do when your worst fears become reality? How do you respond to tough times? What happens to your walk with the Lord?
Today we turn to one of the most powerful affirmations of faith in all Scripture. Faced with God’s predictions of war and devastation, the prophet Habakkuk anticipates hunger in the land. But in the face of upcoming tragedy he proclaims that he will still rejoice in God his Savior. External circumstances are not going to stop him from finding joy in God.
As Christians, we can rejoice in even the most challenging circumstances because of Jesus’ death and resurrection. Even in the toughest of circumstances— even when we look death in the face—we know that nothing can separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord (Romans 8:39).
In the midst of suffering, never forget that our God is a loving God, no matter what. By his Spirit he comforts us. He is always in full control of our lives. That joyful reality gives us hope even in the most difficult times.
Heavenly Father, thank you for being with us always! Give us strength to rejoice in your love and protection in Christ, even when life gets tough. Amen.
About the author — Sergei Sosedkin
Rev. Sergei Sosedkin is the Russian-language ministry leader for ReFrame Ministries. He is a native of Moscow, Russia. As he oversees the Russian-language ministry, Rev. Sosedkin works from our office in Grand Rapids and in various locations in Russia.
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