Habakkuk 1:1-4

The burden which Habakkuk the prophet did see.

Responsibilities

We can see how appropriate is the word “burden” used by the prophets to describe their gift and duty. The obligation laid on them often involved strain and danger. And yet it was a glorious privilege to be commissioned by God, to act for Him, to be His mouthpiece to the people. Habakkuk’s burden was the sight of the general evil and corruption prevalent in the Holy Land, among the chosen people. What burden can be heavier than this, to see evil prevail among God’s people, and to be unable to remedy it? Two lessons--

1. Every privilege entails suffering.

2. Do not lose heart.

The burden is laid on you by the Lord who gave you your glorious privilege. Look at the vocation, not at the burden. (S. Baring-Gould.)

The burden of enlightenment

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)