Though

Even though the fig trees have no blossoms, and there are no grapes on the vines; even though the olive crop fails, and the fields lie empty and barren; even though the flocks die in the fields, and the cattle barns are empty, yet I will rejoice in the Lord! ~ Habakkuk 3:18

The news tonight was horrific. And frightening. Seemingly hopeless.

And the news last night was the same.

So, I must admit, I’m tempted to feel a bit like the Old Testament prophet Habakkuk, who cried out to God as the Babylonians were overtaking Israel: “Violence is everywhere! Must I forever see these evil deeds? Why must I watch all this misery? Wherever I look, I see destruction and violence. I am surrounded by people who love to argue and fight. The law has become paralyzed and there is no justice in the courts.” Habakkuk 1:2-4

What in the world was happening to them (and why does it sound so much like today)?

During that time of international crisis and national corruption, no wonder Habakkuk asked, ‘Why doesn’t God do something?’ Godly men and women continue to wonder what we can do at such times.

Habakkuk looked around and all he saw was emptiness—no fruit, no animals, no wheat. But he knew God and decided to “be joyful in the God of my salvation.” He knew how important it was to take the long view, to realize that God is sovereign.

To be honest, I sometimes have to fast from the evening news. However, as Christ’s hands on earth I am also called live in reality. For one thing, news headlines make a prayer list all by themselves. Equally important are my tangible actions of reaching out to the marginalized and broken.

Today as I make my own list of “though . . .yet,” I shall trust in the slow work of God.

BENEDICTION: My child, there is much to be concerned for in the world today. But I am always at work—in the hearts and minds of those open to My leading. Can you trust the slow process of transformation? Lift up your worries and concerns to Me in prayer, and then trust.

Every Blessing, Lucinda

“Helping You Choose a Life of Serenity and Strength”

©2022 Lucinda Secrest McDowell      www.LucindaSecrestMcDowell.com

Lucinda Secrest McDowell is a storyteller and seasoned mentor who engages both heart and mind while “Helping You Choose a Life of Serenity & Strength.” She has authored 16 books including “Soul Strong – 7 Keys to a Vibrant Life” , “Life-Giving Choices – 60 Days to What Matters Most,” “God’s Purpose for You,” and “The Courage to Write.” (Purchasing my books here benefits me as an Amazon associate.) She writes from “Sunnyside” cottage in New England and shares encouraging words weekly at LucindaSecrestMcDowell.com

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9 Comments

  1. Lisa Belcastro on July 20, 2022 at 11:29 am

    Wonderful!

    Thank you for a much-needed reminder.

  2. Maggie+Rowe on July 20, 2022 at 11:41 am

    Thank you for this. “Though” is a good word for me to remember right now.

    • Cindy Bolshaw on July 20, 2022 at 11:57 am

      Living through is such a good word right now. Thank you!

  3. Meadow Merrill on July 20, 2022 at 12:42 pm

    Such an important reminder. Thank you, Cindy!

  4. Gail Kittleson on July 20, 2022 at 2:28 pm

    Thinking of how often use this word, or synonyms….despite, in spite of, nevertheless, although…

    Though = a word of HOPE! Thanks!

  5. Joan Skrobat on July 20, 2022 at 2:53 pm

    Loved this, Blog!!! Great comment “News headlines make a prayer list all by themselves” So true!!
    Happy summer!

  6. Nancy Smith on July 20, 2022 at 4:00 pm

    The news is heart breaking. Every day I shake my head. Good reminder….. and time to re read Habakkuk!

  7. Donna Moore on July 21, 2022 at 3:27 pm

    Love this today. I have been reading & studying Habakkuk the last few weeks.

  8. Jennifer Sakata on July 21, 2022 at 4:02 pm

    Though…a word for our times. Thank you friend for this timely reminder.

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