Habakkuk is a theodicy - a defense of God, or as the dictionary says, "The vindication of divine providence in view of the existence of evil." Habakkuk asks the Lord, "How long, O Lord, will I call for help and You will not hear? The Lord answers I hear, and I am doing something about it. I am bringing the Babylonians. Then Habakkuk asks, "Why do you look with favor on those who deal treacherously? The Lord answers this question with a vision, and said this will happen at an appointed time, and then the Lord said, "Wait for it! It will certainly come. It will not delay." There there is the key verse of Habakkuk, "Behold, as for the proud one, his soul is not right within him; but the righteous will live by faith." Then there are 5 "Woes" given for those who are wicked. The last chapter is a song, and Habakkuk's tone has changed. He no longer questions the Lord, instead fears the Lord and praises Him for His faithfulness even in tough times.
