Habakkuk 1:1-4 The burden which Habakkuk the prophet did see.… The light of Divine favour bestowed upon Habakkuk was the source of much perplexity of mind and distress of soul to him. This paradox is common in Christian experience. The prophet's mission of mercy was a burden to himself. I. A BURDEN OF ENLIGHTENMENT. He was — 1. A spectator of evil; looking upon the great and terrible disorders that devastated his country. 2. An inspired spectator of evil. "God showed him iniquity," etc. To see, in the light of heaven. the fearful ramifications of evil in society is an essential condition of Christian service. 3. A troubled spectator of evil. His heart strings vibrated with jarring discords at the touch of the workers of iniquity. II. A BURDEN OF PRAYER. With a vivid consciousness of God's almighty power the prophet called upon Him to interpose and save His people. But days rolled on and lengthened into months, and still evil abounded. Oh, the burden of prayers unheard! Oh, the burden of unanswered prayers l Oh, the burden of delay! The heart grows sick with hope deferred. III. A BURDEN OF DISCIPLINE. Designed — 1. As a test to see if they will continue to work and witness for God. 2. Still trust in the Lord, even in the presence of the great mystery of iniquity. The burden is — 3. For training, that God's servants may become strong in faith, giving glory to God. (Joseph Willcox) Parallel Verses KJV: The burden which Habakkuk the prophet did see. |
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