Another Look at the Prophecy of Habakkuk in the Light of Christian Spirituality

Issues of faith and theodicy which hinges on why the wicked prosper over the righteous dominate Habakkuk's theology and spirituality (Habakkuk 2:1-4). This includes, his expression of faith experience in relation to God, self and others. Habakkuk laments, prays and confronts the holy, majestic and mysterious God (1:2-2:5), who convinces him that in moments of trials and travails, the just (tsaddiq) shall live only because of their faith (’emunah 2:4). In the Light of Christian Spirituality, this essay, theologically and pastorally, addresses Habakkuk's prophetic perspectives on justification by faith as the foundation of Christian spirituality. This is to encourage, empower and bring hope to believers in Africa and beyond, where poverty, violence, corruption, threats and threats of war and other forms of injustices are normative. Habakkuk's prophetic perspective on justification by faith is critically important to Christian spirituality because it offers believers a theological bridge as it where, between the Old and New Testaments, showing continuity in God's plan for human salvation. St. Paul teaches us in Romans 1:17, "The righteous shall live by his faith" which is essential from (Habakkuk 2:4) and this is a vital cornerstone in Christian theology. It adds much depth to Christian spirituality by grounding it firmly in biblical history and covenantal faithfulness. Habbakuk models spiritual resilience and placing one’s full trust in God's justice.