A Time of Trouble.

The prophet Habakkuk was given visions of Jerusalem falling by the Babylonians and also the great day of God when he returns to save his people. 

Of the last days of Jerusalem and also the earth, Habakkuk says,

"Even though the fig trees have no blossoms, and there are no grapes on the vines; 
even though the olive crop fails, and the fields lie empty and barren; 
even though the flocks die in the fields, and the cattle barns are empty,
yet I will rejoice in the LORD! I will be joyful in the God of my salvation!

Is it possible to rejoice in the midst of famine? Can you rejoice when there is no food for humans or animals? Yes, because we can rejoice in knowing who the Lord is and be joyful we will be saved in his kingdom.

How can we do this in a time of great trouble?  The next verse explains how.

"The Sovereign LORD is my strength! He makes me as surefooted as a deer, able to tread upon the heights."    Habakkuk 3:17-19

God gives us the strength. He will make our way as sure as a deer's way in the forest. Sure-footed means: not likely to stumble, slip or fall. Have you ever seen a deer running through the forest? I have, and it amazes me how they leap through the dense underbrush of brush and fallen trees and yet do not fall. They don't look down while they run - they look ahead to where they are going. This is a good analogy for us. Don't look down - look up to Jesus and you won't fall.

This time of trouble will take place just before Jesus returns.

“At that time shall arise Michael, the great prince who has charge of your people. And there shall be a time of trouble, such as never has been since there was a nation till that time. But at that time your people shall be delivered, everyone whose name shall be found written in the book."
 Daniel 12:1