Wrestling with Divine Silence in Times of Perplexity
The prophet Habakkuk’s ancient lament, “Is there an explanation for your actions in the face of evil and suffering, God?” echoes through the ages and resonates deeply with Christians today. His cry is not a critical accusation. It is a heartfelt search for understanding. He seeks clarity in the midst of confusion, pain, and obvious divine inactivity.
The Heart of Habakkuk’s Lament
Habakkuk’s struggle begins with a question many believers have asked in their darkest hours: “How long, Lord?” He addresses Yahweh, the covenant Lord—the affectionate and sacred name for God in the Old Testament. His plea is not driven by cynicism or rebellion. Instead, it arises from genuine bewilderment as he observes ongoing trouble in Judah. The prophet’s primary concern is not just the persistence of evil. He is also troubled by the seeming silence and inactivity of God in the face of it.
In Habakkuk 1:2, he cries out, “O LORD, how long shall I cry for help, and you will not hear? Or cry to you ‘Violence!’ and you will not save?” The word “hear” here carries the sense of “help.” Habakkuk is not prayerless—he has persevered in prayer, crying out repeatedly and faithfully. Yet, despite his devotion, he remains in a perplexing situation that tests his very beliefs about God.
Perplexity in God’s Inactivity
Habakkuk’s confusion stems from his deep conviction that God is powerful, just, and active. He believes God is the deliverer of Israel and the judge of wrongdoing. But now, God seems to be acting contrary to these convictions. In Habakkuk 1:3, he asks, “Why do you make me see iniquity, and why do you idly look at wrong? Destruction and violence are before me; strife and contention arise.” The prophet sees injustice, violence, and the suffering of the righteous. He is disgusted by the inaction he perceives. If he possessed God’s power, he would intervene promptly.
The situation deteriorates further: “So the law is paralyzed, and justice never goes forth. For the wicked surround the righteous; so justice goes forth perverted” (Habakkuk 1:4). The word “paralyzed” illustrates the people’s spiritual apathy. It also reflects their moral decay. This is a condition all too familiar in modern Western society. Habakkuk is not just concerned for himself; he is jealous for God’s reputation and ways. He knows God as the defender of the helpless and the champion of justice, yet now, God seems unmoved.
The Right Questioning
Importantly, Scripture does not rebuke Habakkuk—or any Christian—for asking these kinds of honest questions. God listens to Habakkuk and is at work, even if the prophet can’t comprehend His ways or timing. As believers, we too face seasons of confusion and perplexity. The crucial factor is the attitude of our hearts. When we approach God with humility, faith, and a wish to understand, our questions express trust. We do this not to accuse or condemn. Our questions become an expression of trust rather than doubt.
Habakkuk’s lament is ultimately a cry of faith. He is wrestling to understand God’s character and ways, not drawing judgmental conclusions or ascribing wrongdoing to God. His example assures us that God welcomes our honest struggles and meets us with patience and grace.
Conclusion: Faith in the Midst of Mystery
Habakkuk’s journey reminds us that faith is not the absence of questions, but the perseverance to seek God amid uncertainty. When evil and suffering abound, and God seems silent, it is not wrong to cry out, “How long, Lord?” We must bring our confusion to the covenant Lord. We trust that He hears and that He cares. He is working, even when we can’t yet see how.
Minister A Francine Green
November 2025
afrancinegreen.com 