17/06/2026
JOY IN THE MIDST OF TROUBLES.
Habakkuk 3:17,18,19(NIV)
17. 'Though fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines,
Though the olive crop fails, and the fields produce no food,
Though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls,
18. Yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my Saviour.
19. The Sovereign Lord is my strength. He makes my feet like the feet of a deer, He enables me to tread on the heights.'
Habakkuk chose to rejoice in the Lord in the midst of his troubles because he knew who His God is.
He decided in his heart that no matter how difficult things become, he will respond with a good attitude and be joyful.
Having feet like those of a deer means to stand firm and to be strong.
Treading on the heights is being able to overcome obstacles or troubles, or sufferings or your responsibilities.
It is in such times that you will grow in wisdom and character. God uses trials to build character.
'The testing of your faith produces perseverance.' (James 1:3)
'After you have suffered for a little while, He will restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.'
Beloved in Christ, we are commanded to rejoice in the Lord always. True joy does not depend on circumstances. Our faith, hope and peace are not dependent on our circumstances, but in God alone.
1Thessalonians 5:16
'Rejoice in the Lord always.'
Phillipians 4:4
'Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice.'
Instead of becoming bitter and question God, be encouraged to choose to rejoice in the Lord, always, no matter how difficult things are for you, bearing in mind that 'All things work together for good to those who love God.'
Trials have a purpose, God's purpose. Paul and Silas rejoiced in jail, they sang hymns to the Lord and eventually the jailer and his family were saved. God had a purpose in allowing this trial to happen.
'Have faith in God.' (Mark 11:22)
'For I am the Lord your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, do not fear, I will help you.' (Isaiah 41:13)