Micah calls out to the leaders to listen. This message is for them. Leaders include rulers, priests, and prophets in charge of telling the people about God’s ways and expectations. It wasn’t like people had their own Bibles sitting on the shelf with everything they needed to know. The people had to rely on their leaders to tell them about God.
These leaders needed a wake-up call. They were more interested in the bribes they’d receive and in supporting themselves rather than relying on God and teaching truth. I know the struggle, even today, for pastors leading churches and feeling like their hands are tied when “big donors” expect their own agendas will be recognized, even when the good of the congregation is the other direction. Interesting comparison.
Micah is using some pretty descriptive language to accuse the leaders here. It may be graphic, but it sets the scene for what happens to the unsuspecting people when their leaders repeatedly fail them by keeping the truth from them. What do you think happened to these leaders to lead them so far astray? What do similar patterns look like today in our world?
We can see in this proclamation from God exactly what those false teachers can expect. Darkness, being cut off from God, shame, and disgrace do not sound pleasant, do they? For those who failed to boast in the Lord, God’s wrath is coming.
These leaders deny that harm can touch them when they say the words, “for the Lord is here among us.” They are only fooling themselves. Sadly, they seem to believe it. Is it true that because they are in leadership roles the Lord will come to their rescue? Does this speak to you about how you lead or boast in the Lord?
Rather than be so self-focused, what does Micah say they should do? He tells them to be more like him. “I am filled with power—with the Spirit of the Lord.” Micah is boasting about the Lord, not his own power. Curious that we should hear about the Spirit of the Lord. There aren’t a lot of Old Testament references to the Holy Spirit.
We know Jesus promised us that same Spirit. In Acts 1:8, before his ascension, he said, “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere—in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” And in John 14:26, “But when the Father sends the Advocate as my representative—that is, the Holy Spirit—he will teach you everything and will remind you of everything I have told you.”
The same power that gave Micah the strength and confidence for his mission is also available to us, just as Jesus promised. Remember, too, Romans 8:11, “The Spirit of God, who raised Jesus from the dead, lives in you. And just as God raised Christ Jesus from the dead, he will give life to your mortal bodies by this same Spirit living within you.”
Have you heard the song, Same Power by Jeremy Camp? It’s a powerful message. Listen HERE. We have hope and confidence we will not be overtaken!
Isn’t it so much easier to boast in the Lord when he helps you accomplish something miraculous than to try and take all the credit? I know that there are plenty of things I’ve done in my life that I could not have done on my own. Recognizing that and giving God the glory is so rewarding. It makes the Spirit sing within me!
What are some ways you can boast in the Lord right now? How is he moving in your life or in your community? Think on those and look for an opportunity to share to encourage others.
Let’s pray. Lord, thank you for giving me access to the power of your spirit. I am amazed at your grace and mercy toward me. Forgive this sinner, Lord, I pray. Help me to do your will and shine with the light of your truth. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Thank you so much for all your work that gives us a greater insight into how to apply these lessons to our own life today. Appreciate it very much.
You are welcome, Carolyn! I love helping people see God in Scripture and make him relatable to everyday life.