How long, Lord, must I call for help and you do not listen or cry out to you about violence and you do not save? —Habakkuk 1:2
It’s a hard day when you conclude that God isn’t listening to you, which is exactly the way Habakkuk felt. In his desperation he even had the audacity to tell God so: “you do not listen.”
Life feels that way sometimes, doesn’t it? Desperate life, pleading prayers, and silent heavens.
Habakkuk was able to see the truth eventually. As it turned out, God hadn’t muted Habakkuk, Habakkuk had muted God. Because God’s answers weren’t coming in the way or time Habakkuk expected, he questioned God’s attentiveness. We have to give the weary prophet credit for persistence though. He didn’t give up seeking God. He kept asking. He kept knocking.
When prayer is long and difficult, that’s often an indication that a better answer is coming than the one we’re hoping for—a more complete answer. An answer that transforms our hearts and shows us more of God’s beauty and bounty.
Make it Personal
Be completely honest with God as you talk to Him today. Even if it’s hard to keep praying and trusting, tell Him so.