Habakkuk 2:9 · KJV
"Woe to him that coveteth an evil covetousness to his house, that he may set his nest on high, that he may be delivered from the power of evil!"
King James Version
What does Habakkuk 2:9 mean? →Passage Context
Devotional Reflection
God tells us both "Whoa!" and "Woe!" in our "dog-eat-dog" world, where everyone is trying to get to the top and leave everyone else at the bottom. He tells us to stop and realize that Kingdom values are different from worldly values and that there is no success without service. He also tells us that He will ruin us if we ignore His values and put our own happiness ahead of the happiness of others or try to be successful at the expense of our morals.
Prayer
God, please give me the strength to resist the urge to use, cheat, or lie to get ahead. You are kind, powerful, and righteous. Dear Father, I really want to be a good, honest, and blessed person. Please help me see any dishonesty in my own heart and treat others with the same kindness You have shown me. In Jesus' precious name, I pray. Amen.
Reflection Questions
How does the desire for wealth affect your life?
What does it mean to you to seek security in God rather than material possessions?
When have you felt tempted to act unethically for personal gain?
Life Application
Evaluate your motivations for acquiring wealth. Seek to align your financial goals with ethical standards.
Trust in God's provision rather than relying on deceitful means to secure your future.
Related Devotions
Habakkuk 3:8
Finding the desire to hear God
Our church recently did a series of workshops on listening. The participants got to experience what it feels like to not be listened to, feeling anger and frustration. Then we discussed what is more
Habakkuk 3:10
The Lord's Joy Is Your Strength
NEHEMIAH 8:10 Then he said unto them, Go your way, eat the fat, and drink the sweet, and send portions unto them for whom nothing is prepared: for this day is holy unto our Lord: neither be ye sorry;
Related Prayers
Facing Financial Hardship in Ministry Work
I’m a 28-year-old associate pastor, and it’s been challenging to manage my finances on the current salary. My wife and I are expecting our first child
Facing Foreclosure with Young Children Watching
My heart is heavy as I face the possibility of losing our home. With my two young children watching, I fear the impact this will have on their stabili
The Burden of Financial Insecurity
I’m a 50-year-old father of three, and although I’ve always worked hard to provide for my family, I feel an overwhelming sense of financial insecurity
Daily Bible in Your Inbox
Get a daily verse, devotional, and prayer delivered every morning.