We considered how we can rise above in times of crisis using the example of the Old Testament prophet Habakkuk, specifically looking at verses 18-19 in the third chapter of the book by his name.
Now let’s notice how this chapter begins — “A prayer of Habakkuk the prophet.”
Praying in the Midst of Crisis
- Pour out your heart to God.
This is what Habakkuk was doing in the beginning verses of chapter three. He was laying the crisis out before the Lord and admitting how it made him feel afraid.
Also reflect on these Scripture verses:
These things I remember as I pour out my soul: how I used to go to the house of God under the protection of the Mighty One with shouts of joy and praise among the festive throng. Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God. (Ps. 42:4-5)
Trust in him at all times, O people; pour out your hearts to him, for God is our refuge. (Psalm 62:8)
Arise, cry out in the night, as the watches of the night begin; pour out your heart like water in the presence of the Lord. (Lam. 2:19)
- Put your trust in God.
Habbakuk acknowledged God as his Lord, Savior, and strength. Notice that he didn’t merely recognize God as the Lord but also as the Sovereign Lord … the One who had all things under control and therefore could be trusted. Acknowledging to God who he knew Him to be served as a reminder that he could indeed trust God no matter what happened.
Also reflect on these Scripture verses:
God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. (Ps. 46:1)
Yes, my soul, find rest in God; my hope comes from him. Truly he is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will not be shaken. My salvation and my honor depend on God; he is my mighty rock, my refuge. (Ps. 62:5-8)
- Praise God even in the midst of crisis.
Habakkuk was afraid yet chose to rejoice in the Lord, to be joyful in Him. He was basically telling God that He was enough. He was able to praise God because in His presence there was fullness of joy regardless of the circumstances (Ps. 16:11).
Also reflect on these Scripture verses:
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Phil. 4:6-7)
Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. (1 Thess. 5:16-18)
Resources:
Thank You So Much for giving me access to these devotionals. I am a New Member in about a 300-500 member church. The age old problem of the We’s & The They’s is in full bloom. The We-(people) that have been members for a long time & The-They-(people) that are new to the Church. The “They People” are welcome to come and fill up a seat, give tithes and offerings, but anything else is reserved for the “We People.” I am observing a revolving door membership of people coming and going. I really needed this “In the Midst of Crisis, Rise Above.” I will let the Lord teach me how to overcome this situation, I do not believe in running from Church to Church. Again, Thank You for these Resources to help me focus on the Word of God, stay Prayerful, and Walk in Love. There are no Perfect Churches, we have to let iron sharpen iron, and keep a spirit of forgiveness. You are a lifeline with Biblical Words of Wisdom and Scripture Resources. God Bless You In Jesus Name.
You are most welcome, Anita. You are so right when you say there are no perfect Churches. Yet, “Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her” with the ultimate intent of presenting the church “to himself as a radiant church, without stain or wrinkle or any other blemish, but holy and blameless” (Eph. 5:25-27). So, it is important we do not give up but maintain the perspective you have presented, letting God work in our own lives and turning those observations about the church, and undoubtedly sometimes frustration, into prayers for the Church, remembering the words of James 5:16 — “The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” We can, indeed rise above but we do need look to the Lord for grace, wisdom, and strength.
I give praises to the almighty for everything that i saw & may the Lord increase his servant for more knowledge, wisdom & courage.