We're Out Of Figs...Praising In Dry Seasons


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 no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my Savior. Habakkuk 3:17-18
Rejoicing comes easy when times are good. When the cabinets are full, things are great at work and home, the bills are paid, and your children surprise you by cleaning the house on their own. Everyone shouts hallelujah in the good times. The prophet speaks of a very different scenario. This was an agricultural society. If there is no fruit on the trees, no crop in the field, nor animals in the barn then you're headed for ruin. This equates to no income. Life is filled with both times for most of us. Seasons of plenty and others of difficulty. Habakkuk's declaration is powerful as he speaks over a dark time. He's going to give God praise anyway.
It was Job who during his trial asked, "Should we accept only good things from the hand of God and never anything bad?" We know God isn't bad, so it can be difficult to see his hand when things are difficult. Yet, when we look back over our lives we see where God has been faithful to bring us through every circumstance. He's the same God, and He will be faithful to fulfill His word in our lives again. We will once again come out with a stronger faith than before. This doesn't make the trial any easier, but it should make praise easier. 
So shout, "Hallelujah!" no matter what you're facing today. Rejoice in who you are in Christ Jesus. Let your praise arise from your relationship with Father, and not out of circumstance. As you worship your circumstances may not immediately change...but you will.

Following the Son,

James A Williams

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