8/15/2012
Habakkuk 2
-The prophet resolves to stand on his guard post, station
himself on the rampart (a defensive fortification made of an earthen
embankment, often topped by a low protective wall), and keep watch to see what
the LORD will speak to him (Habakkuk 2:1). He is pondering his reply to his
reproof. *Application* God will speak. Our job is to position ourselves in a
posture where He can communicate with us. Often Scripture tells us to be alert
and ready (Matthew 24:42; 25:13, Acts 20:31, 1 Corinthians 16:13, Ephesians
6:18, 1 Peter 5:8, Revelation 3:3). Here we see an example of this
anticipation.
-The LORD responds to His prophet telling him to record the
vision (write it down, inscribe it) that the one who reads it may run (take it
and make use of it) (Habakkuk 2:2). The vision is in the future for an
appointed time and it quickly is coming to its fruition. It will not fail. Even
when it seems like it is taking a long time (tarries), wait for it because it
is certain and won’t delay when it is the appointed time (Habakkuk 2:3).
*Application* Patience is a virtue and a fruit of the Holy Spirit (Galatians
5:22). This is an important reminder that when God tells us to do something, we
need to put it down it writing. This is special to you and to God and He wants
us to inscribe the promises and visions He gives us. This is for communication
with others that they may carry out the things of the LORD as He reveals.
-The proud will never be right in his soul, but the
righteous will live by his faith (Habakkuk 2:4). *Application* Here we have
solid proof that the Old Testament as well as the New Testament teaches
salvation by the means of faith. The Old Testament connects with the new revelation
in light of Jesus Christ in every way as we see here confirmed in this special
verse.
-There is a denouncement of wine (alcohol in general). It
takes a person from his home and enlarges his sinful appetite like Sheol (Hell).
This person is never satisfied and takes in the ways of the world (Habakkuk
2:6). *Application* God tells not to be drunk with wine, but to be filled with
His Holy Spirit (Ephesians 5:18). This is a matter of influence. Allow the
right One to be your influencer and director in life.
-Woes are pronounced on the wicked by the LORD’s Word in the
following verses for increasing what is not his (Habakkuk 2:6), getting evil
gain (Habakkuk 2:9), building a city with bloodshed (Habakkuk 2:12), and making
their neighbors drink their venom (Habakkuk 2:15). These will be filled with
disgrace rather than honor (Habakkuk 2:16). Idolatry is condemned as ridiculous
nonsense, but the LORD is in His Holy Temple and is to be worshipped as the
true and living God (Habakkuk 2:18-20). *Application* In the comparison of good
versus evil what side do we find ourselves on? Humble yourself before the LORD
today. Though the vision tarries, wait patiently for it and trust in your God.
He is alive and well and will eventually honor you as His righteous child.
Verses to Memorize:
Habakkuk 2:2, 4, 14
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