Day 193 – Micah: Theme
“In the last days the mountain of the LORD’s temple will be established as chief among the mountains; it will be raised above the hills, and peoples will stream to it.” Micah 4:1 NIV
In seven short chapters, the prophet Micah presents a true picture of God who loves and hates. Much of the book is devoted to describing God’s judgment on Israel, Judah, and all the earth. This judgment would come “because of the rebellion of Israel – yes, the sins of the whole nation.” He listed their despicable sins, including fraud, theft, greed, debauchery, oppression, hypocrisy, heresy, injustice, extortion, lying, murder, and other offences. God’s judgment was on its way. In the middle of this overwhelming prediction of destruction, Micah gave a message of hope and consolation, because he also describes God’s love.
The truth is that judgment comes only after countless opportunities to repent, to turn back to true worship and obedience and to do what is right. Micah teaches to love mercy and to walk humbly with God. Even in times of judgment, God promises to deliver the small minority who have continued to follow Him. He states, “Your king will lead you; the Lord himself will guide you.” (2:13). Our king, Jesus, is prophesied in chapter 5 to be born as a baby in Bethlehem.
As you study the book of Micah, pay attention to God’s anger in action as he judges and punishes sin. See His love in action as He offers eternal life to all who repent and believe. Be determined to join the faithful remnant of God’s people, who live according to his will.
Prayer: Father, thank You for giving us a glimpse of Your heart and for the beautiful prophecy of Jesus’s birth as our King and Saviour. Teach us, Lord, to intercede and pray for those who do not belong to the remnant of Your people so they can see their sin and repent. Amen.
