Micah 5: The Future of Our Enemies
AS CHRISTIANS, WE often do not like to talk about the fact that we have enemies. We hesitate to label someone as an enemy. Yet enemies are real and sometimes quite evil. Dealing with them can occupy much of our time and our thoughts. Unfortunately, there are times when we do not even notice the greatest enemy of God's purpose. In the words of Pogo the cartoon character: "We have met the enemy and he is us."
Warming Up to God
What concerns are weighing on your mind? Give God your fears and frustrations.
Read Micah 5. »
Discovering the Word
- Contrast the present-day ruler (v. 1) with the ruler who is to come (vv. 2-5).
- How does the description of the future ruler give you comfort?
- How does Micah picture Israel's future against Assyria (vv. 5-9)?
- While Israel feared her enemies that were outside her border, what enemies within her borders did Micah expect destroyed (vv. 10-14)?
Applying the Word
- We no longer wait for the ruler to come from Bethlehem, so how can he give you hope in the midst of your trials?
- Often we see others as our enemies, but what inside you is an enemy to God's purposes (vv. 10-14)?
Responding in Prayer
Ask God's Spirit to search you and to help you know what opposes his purpose. Confess, and ask God to empower you to change and move on.
For Further Study
Wounds That Heal by Stephen Seamands