Monday, May 11
Monday Morning Manna
Though the fig tree may not blossom, nor fruit be on the vines; though the labor of the olive may fail, and the fields yield no food; though the flock may be cut off from the fold, and there be no herd in the stalls—Yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will joy in the God of my salvation. Habakkuk 3:17-18
Yesterday the Reverend Dr. Orville Harris shared a word of encouragement titled – Wait For It. Taken from Habakkuk 3:17-19, Dr. Harris reminded us that God is still in control but, we should wait. In life there are times when it’s to praise God. Life is family, finances and friends are good – we praise God because He has been good to us. Yet there are other times when things are falling apart. Do we praise then? Today these are times when sorrow fills our hearts and we wonder if God really care about us. In such times, can we still trust in God’s love? How can we be joyful in pain, COVID-19, rejection or distress? During these times many are questioning the hand of God. Wondering, is God still in control? Does He not see what is going on? The answer is yes. It is important for us to know that our confidence in the sovereignty of God is in all things and in all circumstances. This confidence is crucial to our trusting Him.
This Bible reading is an account of Prophet Habakkuk who got to a point in his life when things were so bad. They were in a totally difficult and depressing times. But rather than murmur or worry, Habakkuk chose to rejoice in the Lord God. Even with things falling apart, he chose to rejoice. The future may look bleak, but his heart blooms with joy. Difficulties couldn’t dictate his joy.
Today we too have this hope. We cannot allow COVID-to dictate our joy, to control our praise. Though things may seem leek, it is not getting better, God says wait. Life up your voice and wait. Hold onto your praise and wait. Keep trusting in God as you wait.
The word ‘though’ in this passage speaks of a regardless of circumstance, I will rejoice in the Lord. It also means however and regardless of the situation and circumstance I will be glad in the Lord. Other words for “though” in this context means notwithstanding, in-spite-of, despite, yet, but, though, although, and until now. The word “rejoice” means to delight, glory, joy, triumph, gladden, delight, cheer and be glad.
Followers of Christ, the Bible commands us to rejoice always for the joy of the Lord is our strength. Let no storm keep us downcast. You must trust God being fully convinced that He is able to guard and keep you. Don’t allow circumstances affect your life. You can keep a bright outlook in the midst of all that is going on. You can have peace when the world is in chaos. The joy of the Lord is our strength in times of troubles. “Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice!” Philippians 4:4.