“Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines,though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are nosheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I willbe joyful in God my Savior.” (Habakkuk 3:17-18 NIV).
The prophet Habakkuk wrote during a time of great turmoil and impending judgment on Israel. The fig tree, vines, olive, fields, flock, and herd are essential sources of sustenance and prosperity in ancient agrarian society, and their failure to yield or produce signifies total economic collapse and hardship. Despite the dire situation, Habakkuk expresses a profound trust in God. His hope and joy are rooted in God’s saving power and faithfulness, not in material prosperity.
Habakkuk’s attitude of thankfulness and praise towards God in the face of severe hardship and losses and the absence of material blessing teaches us contentment and finding satisfaction in God’s presence and salvation. This is the season of Thanksgiving, and the year is gradually going to end. Beloved, regardless of whatever you might have gone through over the year, come to God’s presence with rejoicing and a thankful heart and look ahead with the hope of a brighter future.
