Background

The Book of Habakkuk is a prophetic dialogue between the prophet and God, written likely in the late 7th century BC, during the rise of the Babylonian Empire. Little is known about Habakkuk himself, but his book reflects a period of political instability and moral decline in Judah. Habakkuk wrestles with profound theological questions, particularly about God’s justice and sovereignty in the face of evil and suffering. Unlike other prophetic books, it focuses on a candid exchange between the prophet and God rather than direct messages to the people.

Key Themes

Central to Habakkuk is the theme of trusting God’s justice and sovereignty. The prophet questions why God tolerates wickedness within Judah and later, why he would use an even more wicked nation like Babylon as an instrument of judgment. God’s response highlights his long-term plan to deal with all evil and establish his righteousness. The book also emphasises living by faith, a theme famously quoted in the New Testament (Habakkuk 2:4). Finally, Habakkuk underscores God’s ultimate power over the nations and his ability to bring deliverance to his people.

The Message for Today

Habakkuk’s honest questions resonate with believers today who grapple with the presence of evil and suffering in the world. His journey from doubt to trust encourages faith in God’s overarching plan, even when his ways are beyond human understanding. The prophet’s declaration in Habakkuk 3:17-19—choosing to rejoice in God despite dire circumstances—is a powerful message of hope and resilience. It calls Christians to anchor their trust in God’s unchanging character rather than temporary circumstances.

A Different Kingdom Lens

Habakkuk’s message aligns with the redemptive work of Christ, who fulfils God’s ultimate plan for justice and salvation. The call to live by faith anticipates the life of trust required in the Kingdom of God. Just as Habakkuk points to a future judgment and restoration, the Kingdom lens reveals the ultimate defeat of evil and the establishment of God’s eternal reign through Jesus. Believers are invited to participate in this Kingdom by living out their faith and demonstrating trust in God’s righteousness, even in a broken world.