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HABAKKUK CHAPTER 2
Unto Habakkuk, waiting for an answer, Hab_2:1, is showed that he must wait in faith, Hab_2:2-4. The judgment of the Chaldeans for insatiableness, Hab_2:5-8, ambition, Hab_2:9-11, cruelty, Hab_2:12-14, treacherous dealing, Hab_2:15-17, and idolatry, Hab_2:18-20.
I will stand: the first chapter ended with that difficult and perplexed question, why God suffers the wicked So long to prosper in their oppressions of the righteous? This chapter represents the prophet waiting and musing, studying with himself what account he might give to himself, and waiting what account God would give him of it. He will stand in a posture of meditating, observing, and waiting.
Upon my watch: possibly the prophet may have respect to the manner of the Jews, who in their solemn prayers and waiting on God had their stations and watches (as Buxtorf observeth in verbo rme;) in their synagogues, or at Jerusalem. But I rather think the prophet resolveth to be like one that is to be a watchman, as prophets are, Eze_3:17, for the people of God. Or passively, in my watch, i.e. where my adversaries, like besieging enemies, observe and watch me. It contains his diligent and persevering expectation and observing.
And set me; fixedly and with resolution not to leave my station, as the Hebrew implieth; it is the same thing more emphatically expressed than in the word stand.
Upon the tower; either watch-tower, or besieged tower, or within a circle, out of which I will not stir till I receive an answer.
And will watch, most attentively observe, to see what he, the Lord, Hab_1:12, will say unto me, or signify unto me; waiting for mine own satisfaction, and for the information of others.
And what I shall answer: there are many that are perplexed at the intricacy of providence, and some inquire to be instructed; some propose doubts and fears; and others do quarrel and perversely wrangle with God and his prophets; and how I may answer these from the word of God is that I wait for, saith our prophet.
When I am reproved; when called to give an account of the mysteriousness of providence; when either to satisfy doubters, or to silence quarrellers.