What is the book of Habakkuk about, and what does it teach us about trusting God when life doesn't turn out as we expected?

In this lesson, we review the content, historical setting, structure, and purpose of the book of Habakkuk. We examine how God responds to Habakkuk's concerns about Judah's wickedness by announcing that he will use Babylon, an even more wicked nation, to discipline his own people.

The book of Habakkuk unfolds through two rounds of lament and divine response, followed by Habakkuk's exemplary prayer, praise, and submission to God's sovereign plan.

In this lesson, we examine:

Habakkuk's First Lament (Habakkuk 1:1–11): Habakkuk complains about the wickedness, violence, and injustice he sees among God's people in Judah. God responds by announcing that he will raise up the Babylonians to execute judgment.

Habakkuk's Second Lament (Habakkuk 1:12–2:20): Habakkuk struggles with God's decision to use Babylon, a nation even more wicked than Judah, as his instrument of judgment. God responds by declaring that Babylon itself will eventually face destruction.

Habakkuk's Prayer and Praise (Habakkuk 3:1–19): Habakkuk responds to God's announced judgment with prayer, praise, and submission. Even though the fig tree does not blossom, the crops fail, and the livestock disappear, Habakkuk declares that he will rejoice in the Lord and find his strength in God.

We also consider the historical setting of Habakkuk, including the fall of Nineveh in 609 BC, Babylon's growing power, the deportation of 597 BC, and the likely relationship between Habakkuk's prophetic preaching and the later writing of the book.

What does Habakkuk teach us today?

God's providence does not always unfold as we would expect. Sometimes his purposes involve circumstances we would never have chosen. Nevertheless, God is good, his wisdom is perfect, and his judgments are right. His people can therefore find peace, rejoice in him, and submit to his sovereign plan—even when life takes an unexpected and painful direction.

Habakkuk 3:17–19 provides a particularly powerful expression of this confidence in God.

This lesson is part of our ongoing study of the Minor Prophets and is intended to help Christians understand the content, historical context, and message of the Old Testament.

Whether you belong to a Reformed or Presbyterian church, or simply want to understand Scripture better, this lesson will help you understand Habakkuk and its message for God's people.

The Gospel for Living
Christ Church (PCA) | Clayton, North Carolina

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