The prophet Habakkuk was awaiting the destruction of his country (Judah) by the ruthless Chaldeans, whose army was called by God to punish His people for their disobedient and evil ways (Habakkuk 1:5-6). Through faith in the Lord he stated:“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” (Habakkuk 3:17-18).
Habakkuk’s words motivate me to stop and ask, “Am I thankful to God regardless of what He gives or withholds?” (cf. Job 1:20-21). Habakkuk pondered how he would respond to the loss of every material blessing. He concluded, “I will joy in the God of my salvation” (Habakkuk 3:18).
Circumstances may change, but God remains the same (Malachi 3:6; cf. Numbers 23:19; James 1:17). Isn’t that cause for continual thanksgiving? Let’s remember that thankfulness depends on what is in our heart — not what is in our hand (Colossians 3:15).
—Mike Riley, Gospel Snippets
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