yet I will exult in the LORD;
This phrase reflects a profound declaration of faith and joy in God despite adverse circumstances. The prophet Habakkuk, after expressing his concerns and witnessing the impending judgment on Judah, chooses to find joy in the LORD. This decision to exult is significant, as it demonstrates a deep trust in God's sovereignty and goodness, even when the situation seems dire. The term "exult" implies a triumphant and exuberant joy, suggesting that Habakkuk's faith transcends his immediate circumstances. This mirrors the attitude of other biblical figures, such as Job, who maintained faith despite suffering (Job 13:15). The use of "LORD" (YHWH) emphasizes the covenantal relationship between God and His people, reminding readers of God's faithfulness throughout history.

I will rejoice in the God of my salvation!
Here, Habakkuk expresses a personal and intimate joy in God as the source of his salvation. The word "rejoice" indicates a deliberate choice to find joy in God, highlighting the prophet's reliance on divine deliverance rather than earthly circumstances. The phrase "God of my salvation" underscores the belief that salvation is not merely a future hope but a present reality rooted in a relationship with God. This reflects the broader biblical theme of God as a deliverer, seen in passages like Exodus 15:2, where God is praised for delivering Israel from Egypt. The concept of salvation here can be seen as both physical deliverance and spiritual redemption, pointing forward to the ultimate salvation through Jesus Christ, who is often referred to as the Savior in the New Testament (Luke 2:11). This phrase encourages believers to find their ultimate joy and hope in God, regardless of life's challenges.

1. Habakkuk
A prophet in the Old Testament who dialogues with God about the coming judgment on Judah and the eventual punishment of Babylon. His book is a blend of lament, prophecy, and praise.

2. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, facing impending judgment due to its disobedience and idolatry.

3. Babylon
The empire that God uses as an instrument of judgment against Judah, known for its power and eventual downfall.

4. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant name of God, emphasizing His eternal, self-existent nature and His faithfulness to His promises.

5. Salvation
In this context, it refers to deliverance and the ultimate hope in God's redemptive power, both temporally and eternally.Choosing Joy in Adversity
Habakkuk demonstrates that joy is a choice rooted in faith, not circumstances. Believers are called to find joy in God's character and promises, even when life is challenging.

Faith in God's Salvation
The term "salvation" (Hebrew: yeshu'ah) signifies deliverance. Trusting in God's salvation means believing in His ultimate plan for redemption and restoration.

The Power of Praise
Praise shifts focus from problems to God's sovereignty and faithfulness. It is a powerful act of worship that strengthens faith and brings peace.

God's Unchanging Nature
Habakkuk's joy is anchored in the unchanging nature of God. Believers can find stability and hope in God's eternal attributes, regardless of life's uncertainties.(18) Yet--i.e., in spite of all the afflictions predicted in Habakkuk 3:17. We are reminded of St. Paul's expression of confidence in Romans 8:37.

Verses 18, 19. - § 5. In spite of the terror produced by these judgments, the true Israelite is blessed with hope of salvation and joy in the Lord. Verse 18. - Yet I will rejoice in the Lord. Unshaken in confidence, the prophet, representing the faithful Israelite, expresses his unbounded joy at the prospect of salvation which opens to him beyond the present affliction. The psalmist often thus shews his exulting faith (see Psalm 5:7; Psalm 13:6; Psalm 17:14, 15; Psalm 31:19). I will joy. I will shout for joy; my joy shall express itself outwardly. The God of my salvation (see note on Micah 7:7). The God who judges the nations to procure the final salvation of his people. Septuagint, Τῷ Θεῷ τῷ σωτῆρί μου, "God my Saviour;" Vulgate, In Deo Jesu meo. From this gloss of St. Jerome some of the Fathers have argued for the existence in this passage of a revelation of the incarnation of Christ and the redemption wrought by him.

Parallel Commentaries ...


yet I
וַאֲנִ֖י (wa·’ă·nî)
Conjunctive waw | Pronoun - first person common singular
Strong's 589: I

will exult
אֶעְל֑וֹזָה (’e‘·lō·w·zāh)
Verb - Qal - Imperfect Cohortative - first person common singular
Strong's 5937: To jump for, joy, exult

in the LORD;
בַּיהוָ֣ה (Yah·weh)
Preposition-b | Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 3068: LORD -- the proper name of the God of Israel

I will rejoice
אָגִ֖ילָה (’ā·ḡî·lāh)
Verb - Qal - Imperfect Cohortative - first person common singular
Strong's 1523: To spin round, rejoice, fear

in the God
בֵּאלֹהֵ֥י (bê·lō·hê)
Preposition-b | Noun - masculine plural construct
Strong's 430: gods -- the supreme God, magistrates, a superlative

of my salvation!
יִשְׁעִֽי׃ (yiš·‘î)
Noun - masculine singular construct | first person common singular
Strong's 3468: Deliverance, rescue, salvation, safety, welfare


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OT Prophets: Habakkuk 3:18 Yet I will rejoice in Yahweh (Hab Hb)