Can We Question God?

November 06, 2022

Pastor Jack Ward

The Book of Habakkuk was likely written between 610 and 605 BC. The prophet Habakkuk decries the sins of Judah but struggles with the fact that God’s chosen people will suffer at the hands of enemies even more wicked than they. The apostle Paul quotes Habakkuk 2:4 on two occasions (Romans 1:17; Galatians 3:11) ……the just shall live by his faith to reiterate the doctrine of justification by faith. God answers Habakkuk’s questions, resulting in continuing faith in God’s wisdom, sovereignty, and salvation. The Book of Habakkuk begins with Habakkuk crying out to God for an answer to why God’s chosen people are allowed to suffer in their captivity. The Lord gives His answer to Habakkuk, essentially stating, “You wouldn’t believe it if I told you” Habakkuk theme is that it is permissible to question what God is doing, although with respect and reverence. Sometimes it is not evident to us what is going on, especially if we are thrown into suffering for a time or if it seems our enemies are prospering while we are just barely getting by. The Book of Habakkuk affirms that God is sovereign and omnipotent, and He has all things under control. We just need to be still and know He is at work. He is who He says He is and does keep His promises. He will punish the wicked. Even when we cannot see evidence of His dominion, God is still on the throne of the universe. We need to stay focused on this: Habakkuk 3:19 The Lord God is my strength, and he will make my feet like hinds' feet, and he will make me to walk upon mine high places. To the chief singer on my stringed instruments.