Living by FaithSample

Joy in Every Circumstance

Rev. Alexander Whyte, known for his fiery sermons and reviving prayers, was the greatest preacher of his day in Scotland. The Presbyterian minister always found a reason to thank God in his prayers. One gloomy day with miserable showers, a church member thought, “surely there is nothing one can thank God for on a day with such disappointing weather.” He was astonished to hear Whyte begin his prayer saying, "We thank Thee, O God, that it is not always like this."

Habakkuk realises that the coming judgement of God by the Chaldeans on Judah will cause untold misery. His people will suffer immensely, and he trembles at the very thought of such pain. Despite such a bleak future, Habakkuk still finds reason to trust in God and rejoice. 

For the carnal-minded man, circumstances of this world determine his happiness. He rejoices when the sun is out, his wallet has money, his bones are healthy and his family is happy together. Yet, when there is a storm, the bills pile up, the body sickens and the family fights, joy is seldom found. However, those who trust in God can rejoice even in the midst of trials and tribulations, for their joy is not found in the shifting circumstances of life but in the transcendent God of their salvation. No loss of job, no bankruptcy, no failure in relationships, and no separation by death can steal their joy. This is why the righteous, along with Job, can proclaim “naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked shall I return. The LORD gave, and the LORD has taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD” (Job 1:21). The only sure foundation in this life is to live steadily in the passion of Jesus and the salvation He alone offers.