“For the revelation awaits an appointed time; it speaks of the end and will not prove false. Though it linger, wait for it; it will certainly come and will not delay. “See, the enemy is puffed up; his desires are not upright— but the righteous person will live by his faithfulness” (Habakkuk. 2:3-4).
The Babylonian nation had become proud or “puffed up.” As a result, they were unrighteous and facing God’s judgment. God put them on notice that judgment was eminent. In comparison, the phrase “the just shall live by faith” is quoted in Romans 1:17, Galatians 3:11, and Hebrews 10:38. Paul quotes it in Romans 1:17, “For in the gospel the righteousness of God is revealed—a righteousness that is by faith from first to last,just as it is written: “The righteous will live by faith.” It is quoted again in Galatians 3:11. ” Clearly no one who relies on the law is justified before God, because “the righteous will live by faith.” And again in Hebrews 10:38, “But my righteous one will live by faith. And I take no pleasure in the one who shrinks back.”
At this present time the United States government is on a partial shutdown due to an impasse between our government leaders regarding the necessity for more border security and funding of a wall at the U.S.-Mexico border. Although I am not writing to discuss the impasse, I’m disheartened that our government leaders have not been able to come together collectively to agree upon this issue for the common good of all.
Without the wisdom of God, man-made systems and structures are prone to fail. Many government employees and their families are being adversely impacted by the shutdown. They have concerns of not being able to sustain their households or pay their bills during this time. And rightfully so, as so many people are living from pay check to pay check. In can fully understand their fears. I have been through several brief government shutdowns when I worked in corporate America as a contractor. I can tell you, it is not a pleasant experience. Each day you wonder when the government will reopen and you do your best not to spend frivolously. During these difficult times as a Christian I learned to live by faith in God.
So, what does it mean “The righteous shall live by faith.” Living by faith is trusting in God. Our present circumstances may not seem favorable, but God grace is sufficient to sustain us during our time of need because he is faithful and just ( 2 Cor. 12:9). Sufficient grace is having enough grace to meet every need. God supplies us with as much grace as we need for every situation we face. Grace for facing illness or financial need; grace for our lack of wisdom; grace for dealing with rebellious children or aging parents and so much more.
Learning to be content in whatever situation we face can be difficult. Paul said, “I have learned to be satisfied in any circumstance. I know what it means to lack, and I know what it means to experience overwhelming abundance. For I’m trained in the secret of overcoming all things, whether in fullness or in hunger. And I find that the strength of Christ’s explosive power infuses me to conquer every difficulty (Phil. 4:11-13 TPT). Christ’s power infuses us to be able to overcome every difficult circumstance. It wasn’t that Paul was in need, he had learned over time the secret of overcoming whatever circumstance he faced by the power of grace.
As Christians we live by faith in God. In times of trouble we look to him. From Heaven’s perspective, grace is enough. It may look like we are going under, but grace is enough to see you through any turbulence. It requires tremendous courage and strength not to rely on your own understanding or opinions during difficult times. Fear tries to take over your ever thought. Know that God is faithful. Trust in God completely. Ask God for everything you need (Phil. 4:6)
My prayer is that our government leaders will come together collectively for the common good of our nation. Let’s be in prayer for the leaders of our country; let’s join our hearts and offer up prayers for the nation and its leaders. Our warfare is not against flesh and blood! We have weapons strong enough to destroy strongholds.
Prayer for the Nation
Lord, You promise that when your people pray, humble themselves, and seek You, You will hear and answer. You even promise healing in the land. Lord, our land needs healing and I believe it starts with me. I humble myself before You right here, right now. I’m seeking Your face. I ask You to grant me a repentant spirit so I may be an instrument that ushers in Your blessing for this nation. Amen.
Blessings,
Dr. Francine
BEYOND CHURCH WALLS 