Habakkuk 3:17-18 Although the fig tree shall not blossom, neither shall fruit be in the vines; the labor of the olive shall fail… I. A MOURNFUL SUPPOSITION. Every sentence in this verse is pitched in the minor key. Every symbol is fringed with mourning. 1. The prophet supposes a condition in which he is deprived of the common luxuries of life. The Jews were a favoured people. God had made special provision for their welfare. But the prophet foresaw that He who gave these possessions could take them away. All the agencies of nature and providence were in God's hand. 2. The prophet supposes a condition in which he will be deprived of the common necessaries of life. Some of the fruits of the earth are for enjoyment, and others for our support. We can do without the former, we cannot do without the latter. The prophet supposes a time when not only the luxuries but the necessaries of life might fail, when the tree should be without fruit, the fields without pasture, and the stalls without herd. It is foolish to brood over imaginary troubles, and to magnify the evils of life. Fear not only weakens our strength, but it intensifies our misery. But it is wise to consider how uncertain all material possessions are, and to fortify the heart against the probable calamities that may overtake us. II. A CHEERFUL RESOLUTION. "I will rejoice in God." How could there be inward joy amidst so much outward sorrow? 1. This was a Divine joy. "Rejoice in God." There is a great difference between a human and a Divine joy. One arises from without, but the other from within; one comes from the creature, the other from the Creator. If our joy depended upon our wealth, it might fail; if upon our friends, it might change; if upon our health, it might be broken. But it depends upon God, and we know that "He will supply all our need according to His riches in glory, through Jesus Christ." 2. This was an experimental joy. It refers to the present, and includes forgiveness, fellowship, and expectation. III. A DELIGHTFUL EXPECTATION. "The Lord God is my strength." That is experience. "He will make my feet like hinds' feet." That is expectancy. The Christian life is both a service and a hope; an experience and an expectation. (J. T. Woodhouse.) Parallel Verses KJV: Although the fig tree shall not blossom, neither shall fruit be in the vines; the labour of the olive shall fail, and the fields shall yield no meat; the flock shall be cut off from the fold, and there shall be no herd in the stalls: |
    |