Lord, I stand in awe of your deeds. —Habakkuk 3:2
A popular praise song asks God to show His glory. How many people casually sing these words without realizing what they are asking? When God truly shows His glory, it is anything but casual.
Consider some examples from Scripture. The children of Israel trembled as the glory of God shook a mountain (Ex. 19:16). After Moses encountered God, his own face literally shone with God’s glory (Ex. 34:29). Encounters with God left Isaiah pronouncing woes on his own sin and left Ezekiel facedown on the floor (Isa. 6:5; Ezek. 1:28).
These responses to God’s glory put Habakkuk’s demand for answers in Habakkuk 1 in a new light. If God had suddenly appeared, Habakkuk would have been facedown, overwhelmed with sin, overcome with awe. This is hinted at in the instruction Habakkuk received: to wonder and be astounded. He did respond with wonder as he described God’s power, shaking the nations, splitting the earth, melting mountains.
Perhaps we, too, must first ask to be astounded.
Make it Personal
Are you astounded by God’s glory? Take time to worship and praise Him for His glory and holiness.