What is the meaning of Habakkuk 3:5? Plague went before Him • Habakkuk recalls how, whenever the LORD advances to act, He often precedes His coming with judgments that clear the way. “Plague went before Him” (Habakkuk 3:5) echoes the ten plagues of Exodus 7–12, where the LORD said, “I will execute judgment… I am the LORD” (Exodus 12:12). • The phrase underscores God’s absolute sovereignty—natural forces, diseases, and kings alike obey Him (2 Chronicles 26:20; Revelation 15:1). • It also reassures the faithful: the same God who struck Egypt preserved Israel through the blood of the lamb (Exodus 12:13). His judgments are precise—devastating to rebellion yet protective of covenant people (Psalm 91:5-7). and fever followed in His steps • “Fever,” often linked with burning heat or pestilence, trails behind the LORD like footprints, showing that no enemy can escape His aftermath (Deuteronomy 32:24; Amos 4:10). • The picture is forward-moving: plague clears the way, fever secures the rear. In other words, His justice envelops the whole scene—nothing remains untouched (Isaiah 52:12, “the God of Israel will be your rear guard”). • For believers, this is more than ancient poetry. Christ carries the same authority: He healed fevers instantly (Luke 4:38-39) and will one day strike the nations with the word of His mouth (Revelation 19:15). The contrast highlights grace—those who trust Him experience healing, not harm (Mark 5:34). summary Habakkuk 3:5 paints the Lord’s march as a triumphant procession of judgment: plague goes ahead, fever follows behind. The verse affirms that God controls history, judges rebellion, and protects His people. Past deliverance guarantees future hope, and the God who once sent plagues against Egypt now offers refuge through Christ for all who believe. |
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