The Christian’s Call

Read Habakkuk 1:6-7.

In the book of Habakkuk, God told His prophet, “I am raising up the Babylonians, that ruthless and impetuous people, who sweep across the whole earth to seize dwellings not their own” (1:6). Although this prophecy was unique to one people and one time in redemptive history, it is part of a pattern that repeats throughout history. When those who once honored God cease to honor Him, dire consequences swiftly enter the scene.

The pattern continues today. Islamists are infiltrating our nation. Lobbyists and politicians are pushing every kind of perversion. And if you’re paying attention, you’ll notice that every trouble in our society is being blamed on conservative Christians, the so-called “homophobes” and “Islamophobes.” Of course, as believers we do not walk in fear or hatred. Rather, by the power of the Holy Spirit, we love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us (see Matthew 5:44-45).

When we see immorality paraded through the streets, our nation’s leaders promoting ungodly ideologies, and other atrocities we never dreamed we would see in our lifetimes, we cannot hide away. Rather, we must live in light of the coming glory of the Kingdom of God as we walk through the City of Man.

God Himself shows us the way: “Come now, let us reason together, says the Lord: though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red like crimson, they shall become like wool” (Isaiah 1:18, ESV). God is always inviting people to consider His offer of salvation. He reasons with every soul to accept His gift of grace. And so must we.

We can’t just head to the mountains, put on white robes, and wait for Christ to take us up to heaven. We can’t simply write off humanity and walk away. No, like our Savior, we must reason with everyone in the City of Man who will listen. We must show them the light of Christ shining in and through us. We must be salt in the world to create an irrepressible thirst for Christ. As we live this way, we will see the Lord resurrect dead souls into living testimonies of His grace.

Prayer: God, give me boldness to reason with those You bring into my life, sharing the hope of salvation through Jesus Christ. Give me the words to speak with love and Truth. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.