By Kate Thompson
I will stand at my watch and station myself on the ramparts; I will look to see what he will say to me and what answer I am to give to this complaint. Habakkuk 2:1 NIV
In 2008 I had the opportunity to visit Dachau – the remains of a German concentration camp from World War II. It was an unsettling experience. Several times I fought back tears as I felt the weight of the horror and senselessness. I questioned why the world is so evil and how God could let this happen.
A minor prophet named Habakkuk had similar questions. In Chapter 1, verses 2-4, he rails against God for the violence and injustice around him. He cries out to God for help, but the answer is slow to come.
In 2:1 we see Habakkuk up on the ramparts of the city, standing guard, awaiting God’s answer. And the answer comes:
For the vision is yet for the appointed time; it hastens toward the goal and it will not fail. Though it tarries, wait for it; For it will certainly come, it will not delay. Behold, as for the proud one, his soul is not right within him; But the righteous will live by his faith. Habakkuk 2: 3-4, NASB
Like Habakkuk, I sometimes get frustrated when it seems that the world rewards the wicked. In those times, I need to stand on God’s promises and wait for His plan to reveal itself. Living by faith is not easy, but in the end, it will be worth it.
I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world. John 16:33NIV
Kate Thompson has been a part of the Grace Community of Faith for several years, and currently serves as Church Historian, Communion Coordinator, Worship Team Member and a Small Group Leader.