The book of Habakkuk may have been written between 622 B.C. when the Assyrian capitol of Nineveh was destroyed and 606 B.C. when the first Jews were taken away to Babylon. The only clues for giving it this date are that Habakkuk does not mention the Assyrians as a potential threat, but God says, “I am raising up the Babylonians, a cruel and violent people.” Habakkuk 1:6 NLT.
The prophets had been warning for centuries that God would punish the Jews if they ever left Him for other gods; this warning first came from Moses, yet the people did not listen. Now Habakkuk is worried that Judah will be totally destroyed. This turns into a vision where he has two conversations with God. The problem for Habakkuk resonates today: why do good people have to suffer?
Outline
1A. Habakkuk’s first complaint and God’s response. Chapter 1:1-11
2A. Habakkuk’s second complaint and God’s response. Chapter 1:12 – 2:20
3A. Habakkuk’s prayer. Chapter 3:1-19
Key Verse: “Yet I will rejoice in the Lord! I will be joyful in the God of my salvation! The Sovereign Lord is my strength! He makes me as surefooted as a deer, able to tread upon the heights.” Habakkuk 3:18- 19 NLT.