Habakkuk 2: The Righteous Shall Live By Faith

"Look at the proud!  Their spirit is not right in them, but the righteous live by their faith" (vs. 4).

Habakkuk is a typically overlooked book.  When was the last time you heard a sermon based on Habakkuk or attended a Bible study on this slender work by the eponymous prophet?  There is even an unsettled debate over how to pronounce the name Habakkuk, with emphasis on either the first or second syllable.

Yet, in spite of its obscurity, hidden in the middle of this book is a scriptural gem that rises to prominence later in the Bible.  Three different times, Habakkuk 2:4 is quoted by the authors of the New Testament.

Romans 1:17 - "For in it the righteousness of God is revealed through faith for faith; as it is written, 'The one who is righteous will live by faith.'”  Paul is quoting Habakkuk here as he constructs his masterpiece argument about justification by faith.

Galatians 3:11 - "Now it is evident that no one is justified before God by the law; for 'The one who is righteous will live by faith.'"  Paul again turns to Habakkuk to make the case that it is faith, not works, which justifies the believer.

Hebrews 10:38 - "But my righteous one will live by faith.  My soul takes no pleasure in anyone who shrinks back."  Here the author of Hebrews encourages his readers to demonstrate perseverance in the face of trials and persist through their faith.

Curious, isn't it, that tucked away in a neglected corner of the Old Testament is a fundamental formulation of what God finds attractive in people?  While pride is repellent, faith is shown to be the hallmark characteristic of the righteous.  Faith is what God looks for and rewards.  Faith is what we are called to demonstrate.  It is grace through faith which justifies us and reconciles us to God.  

Never underestimate faith!  It is what the righteous live by!