“Even though the fig trees are all destroyed, and there is neither blossom left nor fruit, and though the olive crops all fail, and the fields lie barren: even if the flocks die in the fields and the cattle barns are empty, yet I will rejoice in the Lord; I will be happy in the God of my salvation.”

How powerful is that scripture! Habakkuk does not give us an easy challenge. We are to rejoice in our Lord no matter how deep our devastation. Whether it is a time of loss of material wealth or possessions, or whether it is a time when we are drained both physically and emotionally, we are to look up, and to recognize the power of God in all that life is handing us, and then give it back to Him, with shouts of praise. God is to be first and foremost in our lives on a daily basis. He is worthy of our praise and honor at the low points in our lives, as well as in those times we feel like celebrating. If we allow ourselves to become overwhelmed by the obstacles in front of us, we will never be able to continue this journey. Instead we need to fix our eyes upon Him, and rejoice that we are being given this opportunity to grow together as a people gathered in prayer, seeking His will. Does that mean it will be a smooth journey? Not necessarily. It means that God is in control, and is deserving of our praise, no matter what ruts, or stones, or detours are in our path. Praise God!

GRACIOUS GOD, YOU ARE ALL POWERFUL, AND BEYOND OUR COMPREHENSION. HELP US TO REMEMBER THAT WE ARE TO PRAISE YOU AT EACH STEP OF OUR LIVES. YOU ARE NOT A GOD OF JUST SUNDAYS AND GOOD TIMES. YOU ARE WITH US THROUGH EVERYTHING THAT WE FACE, BOTH AS CHRISTIANS AND AS A CONGREGATION. LET OUR FIRST AND LAST THOUGHTS BE OF YOU. AMEN.

-Shared by Nancy Cousar