Is God Really Speaking?

Habakkuk poured out his concerns to God, then he listened for God’s response. He wasn’t happy with what God told him, but he accepted it. Even as we pray, this Lent can we still our internal voices and put aside our agenda so as to hear God speak? 

From an Africa Study Bible touch point:

The idea that God might say “no” or “not now” to our prayers can be difficult for us to understand because most African traditional religions were focussed on people’s needs. 

Most African traditional religions believed God or gods created the world but did not seek out relationships with people. People performed religious rituals to gain prosperity and health from spiritual forces. The only reason to try to relate with the gods was for humans’ own benefit, not for the gods’ benefit. Many Christians still have the misconception that God must do everything we ask if we just say the words “in Jesus’ name” as if these words themselves are magical or powerful. We cannot manipulate God. He is a personal being who is in control of everything. 

Fortunately Habakkuk had learned to hear God. Habakkuk said that what he saw and experienced—no matter how terrible—would not change his view of God (Habakkuk 3:16-19). Because he knew God’s pure and holy character, he had faith that the destruction he witnessed was in fact God acting justly. He could rejoice because he knew that God would save His people. When we face difficult circumstances, let us remind ourselves of God’s character to give us hope. 

Today: 

In difficult circumstances when we have an attitude of submission and dwell on the attributes of God, God’s power and healing flows into our wounded soul. Quiet your heart and listen to what God says about Himself. Ask Him to bring to mind a characteristic of God that you easily overlook. How does this encourage you even when “the fig trees have no blossoms” and the “fields lie empty and barren”?