“Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, … yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will be joyful in God my Savior.”
Habakkuk 3:17-18
I had a friend who confessed to me that she disdained people who exhibited cheerfulness, saying that she didn’t see how anyone could feel carefree and sunny when the world is filled with so much gloom, unfairness, evil, and despair. She thought it superficial and self-centered to be cheerful.
I couldn’t argue with her about the suffering that exists in our world. When we focus on the problems around us and forget the loving God who made us and who gave us “life and breath and everything” (Acts 17:25), we can sink very low. Sometimes we can’t rise above our surroundings. Fog rolls in and hides us from God’s loving promises.
But I desperately wanted to tell my friend that it is possible to rise above despair while still being sensitive to the needs and heartaches of others. It’s possible through Jesus. Our wills can act to embrace the grace and goodness He offers, despite how distressed we feel. We can say as the prophet Habakkuk did in the face of hopelessness that “I will rejoice in the LORD” and will be “joyful in God my Savior.”
I couldn’t argue with her about the suffering that exists in our world. When we focus on the problems around us and forget the loving God who made us and who gave us “life and breath and everything” (Acts 17:25), we can sink very low. Sometimes we can’t rise above our surroundings. Fog rolls in and hides us from God’s loving promises.
But I desperately wanted to tell my friend that it is possible to rise above despair while still being sensitive to the needs and heartaches of others. It’s possible through Jesus. Our wills can act to embrace the grace and goodness He offers, despite how distressed we feel. We can say as the prophet Habakkuk did in the face of hopelessness that “I will rejoice in the LORD” and will be “joyful in God my Savior.”
Scripture Focus
Habakkuk 3:17-19
Insight
Lord, You know how quickly my heart and mind gravitate to being downcast. Let my joy in You rise to the surface today. Amen
Bible In A Year
- Job 17-18
- Psalm 51
- Luke 14