The Double Effect of God’s Word….

This passage in the book of Micah does several things. First, it points out the relevancy of scripture. We still have this kind of behavior going on today, almost 3,000 years later, proving times change but people don’t. Second, it exposes the motive behind corrupt leadership (selfishness). And lastly, and most import, it shows how God’s word provides stability and guidance, and rewards His followers with true empowerment, all the while calling out bad behavior and attitudes of those who refuse to follow God. What God’s word does for the believer, it does the opposite for the hater, condemning the rebel. When we are sharing the Good News with others, remember it’s not me doing the heavy lifting, it’s God’s Word doing what it has always done. What a gift we have from God.

But as for me, I am filled with power–with the Spirit of the Lord. I am filled with justice and strength to boldly declare Israel’s sin and rebellion.9 Listen to me, you leaders of Israel! You hate justice and twist all that is right.10 You are building Jerusalem on a foundation of murder and corruption.11 You rulers make decisions based on bribes; you priests teach God’s laws only for a price; you prophets won’t prophesy unless you are paid.Yet all of you claim to depend on the Lord. “No harm can come to us,” you say, “for the Lord is here among us.”12 Because of you, Mount Zion will be plowed like an open field; Jerusalem will be reduced to ruins! A thicket will grow on the heights where the Temple now stands. Micah 3:8-12