When justice seems elusive, we sometimes ask, ”Why do good things happen to bad people?” We may even declare, “It’s not fair!”

Habakkuk also begins with the question, “Why?” Habakkuk wants to know why God allows Israel to act wickedly (1:3-4). God tells him he’s raising up the Chaldeans (Babylonians) to judge Israel (1:6). A shocked Habakkuk responds, “Why do you look idly at traitors and remain silent when the wicked swallows up the man more righteous than he?” (1:13). He thinks the Gentiles are worse sinners and finds life to be hard. But is God good?

God gives an urgent vision that must be sent with runners (2:2). It commends patience because God's vision will not delay. The message contrasts the self-righteous and the truly righteous person (2:4). This is followed by five “woes,” against stealing, courting evil, violence, lewdness, and idolatry. These are problems not just with the Chaldeans but within Israel. “If the shoe fits, wear it!”

The Apostle Paul builds Romans on Habakkuk 2:4 (Romans 1:16-17). Jews and Gentiles alike are not righteous by God’s standards. “No one is good but God alone” (Luke 18:19). Jesus is the truly righteous One, who paid for the sins of the unrighteous, namely us. The New Testament (especially Romans) clarifies that righteousness leading to life can only come by faith in Jesus. Thus, “the righteous by faith will live.” (Word order in Hebrew and Greek).

Life is hard, but God is good so live by faith in him.

Habakkuk is stunned to silence in 2:20 then responds by no longer asking “Why?” Despite hardship in life, “Yet I will rejoice in the Lord!” (3:18).

Taking It Home: Trust Jesus, not your own righteousness nor the temporary satisfaction of wickedness. Make Habakkuk 3:17-19 your prayer.