Session 4

God, why haven’t you stopped this?

From Habakkuk: A 7-Day Devotional

We don’t have the luxury of ignoring ISIS with the news tracking every tragedy. As the violence against Christians escalates, we wonder why hasn’t someone intervened?

Riots and protests reported on the news remind us of the anger and injustice, frustration and brutality that exist in communities across America. Where is the hope here?

Extremists protest and shout intolerance and hatred in Jesus’ name. God doesn’t support this, but why hasn’t He stopped it?

There seems to be a lot of injustice in this world and little action from God. Habakkuk felt the same way. His world was out of control and the people around him were full of evil. He begged God for justice, and even accused Him of being silent. But God’s response was simple, “Wait for it; it will certainly come and it will not delay” (Habakkuk 2:3).

Often what we perceive as God’s slowness to action is His grace and patience with us. Peter, one of Jesus’ followers, described God this way, “The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance” (2 Peter 3:9).

God’s patience is not the same as His permission. No one hates sin more than God. No one is more angry with ISIS, no one is more hurt by the Baltimore riots, and no one is more grieved when the church misrepresents Jesus.

God is full of grace and fully just all the time. He will bring an end to evil, but not without giving those perpetuating evil a chance to repent. And His plan to change the world is through the local church.  

We don’t have to riot, protest or fight to change things. We change the world as we share the good news of a God who loves us and was willing to die for us, and invite others to know Him, too.

Reflect:

• When was the last time you felt like God was slow to act? How did it make you feel?
• How does what you read today affect the way you pray for your community, your leaders, or the world?
• What’s one way knowing Jesus has changed you? Who can you share that story with this week?