In times of deep need, it can be tempting to run from God or question why bad things are allowed to happen. However, a time of need is a perfect opportunity to grow our relationship with God and strengthen our prayer life. The prophet Habakkuk shows us what it looks like to pray in times like these.
Habakkuk 3:2 I have heard all about you, Lord, and I am filled with awe by the amazing things you have done. In this time of our deep need, begin again to help us, as you did in years gone by. Show us your power to save.
Start by Praising God
Habakkuk says that he is “filled with awe” at what he has seen and heard about God. This shows that he is praising God for all that he is. Starting prayer like this puts our minds and hearts in a place of remembrance and humility.
Remember What God Has Done for You in the Past
Habakkuk goes on to say, “begin again to help us.” Here, he is recognizing what God has done for him in the past. By doing this, we are positioned to look for God’s work in our lives. This allows us to further praise God.
Repent of Your Sins
Habakkuk 3:2 And in your anger, remember your mercy.
We have all sinned, and because Jesus died on the cross for us, we are forgiven if we repent and ask for forgiveness. In our prayer lives, we should recognize our sins and then pray for the Lord’s mercy on us. God is pleased when we notice and praise him for how gracious he is.
Wait Patiently for God’s Hand to Move in Your Life
Habakkuk 3:16 …I will wait quietly for the coming day…
It is very easy to grow impatient when we are in such a deep time of need. However, by doing everything listed above, we can be patient knowing that God works in his timing.
Habakkuk 3:17-18 Even though the fig trees have no blossoms, and there are no grapes on the vine; 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!
Notice that Habakkuk is patient, and never whiney. Though sometimes we cannot see any progress in the things we pray for, we can know that God is working behind the scenes for our benefit.
End with Joyful Expectancy
Habakkuk 3:18-19 I will be joyful in the God of my salvation. The sovereign Lord is my strength!
By ending our prayers with an expectancy and faith in God’s timing and power, we allow him to fully work for our good. Praying this way will help to grow our understanding of God, which in turn will show him how much we love and trust him.
- What is your initial reaction to this topic? What jumped out at you?
- What’s on your heart right now? Be specific about your prayer requests and write them down.
- How often do you typically pray? What do you typically pray for?
- Read Habakkuk 3. List the prayer tips found in the text. How can you apply them to your prayer needs today?
- Write a personal action step based on this conversation.
