Many commentaries consider Habakkuk's message to be one of holding the line during times of trial. Although there are just three chapters, much has been written about it. Here's a little background.
In our Bible, The canonical book of Habakkuk lies between Nahum and Zephaniah. It is the fifth last book in the Old Testament. It's easy to miss!
Its historical setting is around 600 BCE when the Neo-Babylonian or Chaldean Empire, under Assyrian rule, was at its height, with the fabled city of Babylon its centre.
After stating his case for despair (he complains about the Chaldean government) in chapter one, our prophet takes his stand (Hab. 2: 1). He seeks God's voice.
He is told to write his "vision" and "make it plain" (Hab. 2: 2).
Faith Heidtbrink penned her vision in 1986:
Write the vision
From the November 1986 issue of The Christian Science Journal
Write the vision, and make it plain upon
tables, that he may run that readeth it.
(Habakkuk 2:2)
I had practiced my testimony
in all the spare moments of my days,
and, when Wednesday evening came,
the testimony was given.
(Then what? Is good ever past and done?)
That glory of God
so clearly shown me on the mount
still goes on ... still lights my way.
But it can light the way
for others, too,
if only I would write the vision
for all to see.
(Who, me? Write? I don't know how. I don't have time.)
But whose vision is it?
Is it mine ... to keep inside,
or is it His . . . for me to share?
Could I doubt . . . could I even doubt
that He would show me how?
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