The Power of Prevailing Prayer

The book of Nehemiah is a book of action, adventure, accomplishment, and advancement. It is a book that challenges us to exercise faith in the face of the overwhelming, to persevere in the face of problems, and to stand firm in the face of opposition. But behind the stirring scenes of this great book we find a great man on his knees before a great and awesome God.

Nehemiah was a man of prayer. He was a man who understood the importance of spending time with God in prayer. Someone has said that the self-sufficient do not pray but merely talk to themselves, the self-satisfied will not pray because they have no knowledge of their need, and the self-righteous will not pray because they have no basis on which to approach God. Nehemiah was not that kind of individual. He was a man whose life and activities were successful because he was a man of prayer.

The book of Nehemiah opens with the first of Nehemiah’s eleven prayers and shows us the power of prevailing prayer.

The Person and Position of Nehemiah
Nehemiah 1:1 and 11

Who was Nehemiah? According to Nehemiah 1:1 he was the son of Hacaliah. Although we do not know anything about his childhood, youth, or family background, we can surmise at least four things about him. First, his family had been taken into captivity when Jerusalem fell to Nebuchadnezzar and he was probably born in captivity. Second, his family had not availed themselves of the opportunity to return to Judah with either Zerubbabel or Ezra. Third, his parents were probably godly people because they named their son Nehem-Yah, which means “comfort of Yahweh.” Fourth, Nehemiah remained deeply devoted to God although he grew up in a pagan land filled with corrupting influences.

What was his position? According to Nehemiah 1:11, Nehemiah was the cupbearer to King Artaxerxes. While that does not sound very impressive, it was a very important position. As cupbearer, Nehemiah was responsible for tasting the king’s food and wine to insure that it was not poisoned, guarding the king’s sleeping quarters, and held the role of prime minister and master of ceremonies rolled into one. Ancient historians suggest that the cupbearer, like no one other than the queen, was in a position to influence the king.

The Plight of the Jews in Jerusalem
Nehemiah 1:1-3

The story of the book of Nehemiah opens in the winter time in 445 B.C. At that time, Nehemiah was approached by a delegation made up of his brother Hanani and some important men from Judah. Nehemiah asked these men about the welfare of the Jews (repatriates) who had returned to Judah and Jerusalem.

The reply of the messengers was brief, to the point, and came as a blow to Nehemiah. They reported to him about the condition of the people saying, “The people are in great distress and reproach.” The Jews were the objects of ridicule and taunting by their enemies.

They also reported to him about the condition of the city walls saying, “The wall of Jerusalem is still torn down and the gates are burned.” [Read Ezra 4:7-23 for more information on how the walls were torn down and the gates burned.]

The Prevailing Prayer of Nehemiah
Nehemiah 1:4-11

Nehemiah’s response to the distressing news from Jerusalem reveals the depth of his concern, sensitivity, and compassion for his people. According to Nehemiah 1:4, Nehemiah’s grief was intense (“I sat down and wept”), enduring (“and mourned for days”), and self-denying (“and I was fasting and praying before the God of heaven”).

Bad news drives people to do many things. Some people are driven to anger, some to drink, others to denial, and still others to depression. But bad news drove Nehemiah to his knees in prayer. The kneeling position is a good position to be in when facing problems. Someone has said that knees don’t knock when you kneel on them!

Notice five things about Nehemiah’s prayer.

First, Nehemiah began his prayer by focusing on God rather than on the problem that distressed him. He recognized God as the One who kept His word and showed mercy.

Second, notice that Nehemiah, like Ezra (Ezra 9:5-15), identified himself with Israel in the confession of sin. He did not just point the finger at others, he identified himself as part of the problem.

Third, notice Nehemiah’s persistence in prayer. According to Nehemiah 1:6, he prayed before God day and night (see I Thessalonians 5:17).

Fourth, Nehemiah claimed God’s promise to Moses. He had seen God restore His people to Jerusalem after the captivity and fully expected God to bring about the rebuilding of the walls and the restoration of Jerusalem’s prestige.

Finally, notice the impact that Nehemiah’s prevailing prayer had on his own life. He was given a new perspective on the problem as he began to understand the role he would play in answer to his own prayer. He was also led to reestablish his priorities as he was willing to leave the comforts and security of the royal court to help his people. He was further given a new purpose in life as he prepared to invest himself in a project bigger than himself.

Practical Considerations:

Problems present us with an opportunity to pray.
When Nehemiah learned of the plight of the Jews in Jerusalem, he took the matter to the Lord in prayer. As stated in our lesson, bad news drives people to do many things, but bad news should always drive the Christian to the Lord in prayer.

Prayer gives us a new perspective on problems.
It was while on his knees in prayer that Nehemiah received a new perspective on the problem. Prayer reminded Nehemiah of the greatness of God and thus put the concern of his heart in proper perspective. As one commentator noted, “The greater God becomes to him, the smaller becomes his problem.”

We should pray and not lose heart.
We read in Luke 18:1 that Jesus taught His disciples “that at all times they ought to pray and not lose heart.” Nehemiah teaches us the importance of persistence in prayer. He prayed about the plight of the Jews in Jerusalem for four months. Swindoll comments, “The prayer warrior quickly learns the patience of waiting. And so Nehemiah was doing just that – waiting. In the diary he kept, nothing was entered for those four months because nothing happened. He waited. There was no visible glimmer of hope, no change. He kept waiting and trusting and counting on God to move the heart of his superior.” We would be well advised to heed Paul’s admonition to “pray without ceasing” (I Thessalonians 5:17).

What does the Bible tell us about Micah?

[A]   The name Micah means “who is like Jehovah?”

[B]   He was from Moresheth (Micah 1:1 and Jeremiah 26:18), a place located about twenty miles southwest of Jerusalem. The town/village was probably adjacent to Gath since it is referred to as Moresheth-gath in Micah 1:14.

[C]   He prophesied during the reigns of “Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah, kings of Judah“ (Micah 1:1).

[D]   He was a contemporary of Isaiah, Hosea, and Amos.

[E]   Jeremiah quoted Micah’s words in Jeremiah 26:18.

To whom did Micah direct his prophesies?

Micah spoke the word of the Lord (a divine message), which came to him concerning Samaria and Jerusalem (Micah 1:1). Samaria, the capital of the Northern Kingdom of Israel, was a city built on a hill (see 1 Kings 16:23-24). Jerusalem, the capital city of the Southern Kingdom of Judah, was also a city built on a hill. Jesus said, “A city set on a hill cannot be hidden” (Matthew 5:14). A city set on a hill has much influence. These cities represented the seat of government for their respective kingdoms and exerted a powerful influence upon their surrounding areas.

Practical Consideration: We have a responsibility to pray for our leaders.
Jerusalem and Samaria were cities set on a hill. Jerusalem was a center of worship and government. Samaria was a center of false worship and government. The decisions made by the civic and religious rulers in these cities had a far-reaching impact on their respective kingdoms. We have a responsibility to pray for our leaders and to communicate with them about the decisions they make. We forfeit our right to criticize our leaders when we fail to exercise our right to vote, when we fail to express to them our views and concerns regarding the issues, and when we fail to pray for them.

What did Micah prophesy would happen to Samaria and Jerusalem?

Micah announced (Micah 1:2) that the judgment of God would come upon Samaria and Jerusalem. Note the description of that judgment:

[A]   Micah prophesied that the Lord “will come down and tread on the high places of the earth” (Micah 1:3). The high places were the locations of idol worship. Remember also that the two capital cities were built on high places or mountains. Micah declared that God would level everything raised in opposition to Him.

[B]   Micah prophesied that there would be natural catastrophes included in God’s judgment (Micah 1:4). This verse also reminds us that all things are God’s servants (see Psalm 119:91) and at His disposal as instruments of judgment.

[C]   Micah indicated that the reason for God’s judgment “is for the rebellion of Jacob and for the sins of the house of Israel“ (Micah 1:5). Notice that the blame falls upon the capital cities: “What is the rebellion of Jacob? Is it not Samaria? What is the high place of Judah? Is it not Jerusalem?” (Micah 1:5). The decisions made in these cities by the leaders impacted their respective kingdoms. Trickle-down corruption!

[D]   Micah prophesied that the judgment of God would be so terrible that Samaria would be leveled to its foundations and idolatry destroyed. Everything built and gained apart from God would be lost (Micah 1:6-7).

[E]   Micah prophesied that the sin of the Northern Kingdom “is incurable [they had stepped over the line and gone too far], for it has come to Judah; it has reached the gate of my people, even to Jerusalem” (Micah 1:8-9). Jerusalem would not escape God’s judgment. This caused Micah to lament, wail, and mourn (Micah 1:8). Like Jeremiah (see Jeremiah 20:7-9), Micah too, was a weeping prophet. He was a tender-hearted prophet with a tough message.

Practical Consideration: Sin inevitably leads to ruin.
Both the Northern and Southern Kingdom came to ruin because of their sin. Sin is destructive. Sin will give you what you want, but it will take what you have. The wages of sin has always been death and destruction. Men err when they think they can court sin without inviting disaster, destruction, and death.

What did Micah prophesy would happen to other cities?

Micah prophesied that several other cities would experience panic and calamity as a result of the coming judgment (Micah 1:10-14). Using a play on words, Micah described the panic that would result during the coming judgment.

[A]   Gath: (Micah 1:10) A Philistine city. Micah did not want for this Philistine city to know that judgment was coming upon Judah.

[B]   Beth-le-aphrah: (Micah 1:10) The name of this city means “house of dust.” The inhabitants of this city would roll themselves in the dust and mourn after God’s judgment. This verse might be read, “The people of Dustown will roll themselves in the dust!” Micah used this same word-play formula in describing events in the other towns and villages he listed.

[C]   Shaphir: (Micah 1:11) The name of this town means “pleasantness” or “beauty.” The inhabitants would go about in shameful nakedness as a result of God’s judgment.

[D]   Zaanan: (Micah 1:11) The name of this town means “going out.” The inhabitants would not escape (go out) God’s judgment.

[E]   Beth-ezel: (Micah 1:11) The name of this town means “house of removal.” They would have no place left to stand after God’s judgment.

[F]   Maroth: (Micah 1:12) The name of this town means “bitterness,” which is what they would experience through the events of God’s judgment.

[G]   Lachish: (Micah 1:13) This was the place through which idolatry was introduced into the Southern Kingdom of Judah. Some believe that pagan practices from Egypt were introduced at Lachish and then made their way to Jerusalem. Lachish would not escape God’s judgment.

[H]   Moresheth-gath: (Micah 1:14) Even Micah’s home-town would suffer in the coming judgment.

[I]   Achzib: (Micah 1:14) The name of this town means “lie” or “deceit.” Anyone expecting to find help or comfort from Achzib would find it a faithless and unreliable source of help.

[J]   Mareshah: (Micah 1:15) The name of this town means “possession.” It would be invaded by “the one who takes possession.”

[K]   Adullam: (Micah 1:15) This town, situated the farthest distance from the Assyrian Empire, would not escape God’s judgment.

Practical Consideration: Sin has a shadow.
Sin has a shadow. It casts is cold darkness upon the innocent or the passer-by. The sins committed in the capital cities of the Northern and Southern Kingdoms cast a pall upon the surrounding villages and towns. Our sin also has a shadow. The sins we commit cast a dark shadow upon those nearest to us or those who come within the sphere of our influence.

What did Micah call upon the nation to do?

Micah called upon the nation to mourn because their children would be carried off into captivity in the coming judgment (Micah 1:16).

What specific sins did Micah denounce?

Micah spoke out against the sins of the rich and powerful against the poor and needy. Micah accused the rich and powerful of scheming against the poor twenty-four hours a day. He accused the rich of plotting evil at night and practicing it by day (Micah 2:1). Micah also accused the rich of seizing whatever their evil hearts coveted (much like Naboth’s vineyard was unlawfully seized by Jezebel for Ahab in 1 Kings 21). The rich took every advantage of the poor, robbing them of field, home, and inheritance (Micah 2:2). There was a clear disregard for the law of God and for the rights of others. Selfishness ruled the hearts of the rich and powerful.

Practical Consideration: The eyes of man are never satisfied.
Micah accused the rich and powerful of scheming against their fellowman twenty-four hours a day. The greedy and powerful rich lay awake at night plotting how to increase their wealth at the expense of others. Their eyes were never satisfied. They wanted more at any cost. Proverbs 27:20 states, “Sheol and Abaddon are never satisfied, Nor are the eyes of man ever satisfied.” We must allow Jesus to be Lord of our eyes.

What sentence did God pronounce against the wicked?

Notice that God pronounced a punishment in kind against the rich and powerful. They had plotted evil against their fellowman so God would plan calamity against them (Micah 2:3a). Those who had perpetrated the evil described in Micah 2:1-2 would not be able to escape God’s judgment: “from which you cannot remove your necks” (Micah 2:3). Those who had seized the lands of others would lose their own lands “to the apostate” (heathen) without hope of recovering their property (Micah 2:4-5). Notice also that God’s punishment would be humiliating. God declared, “and you will not walk haughtily, for it will be an evil time” (Micah 2:3b). God would humble the proud and arrogant rich. They would become the objects of insult and jesting (Micah 2:4).

Practical Consideration: We should heed the Golden Rule.
The judgment of God upon the rich and powerful was punishment in kind. Those who took the possessions of others would lose their possessions (Micah 2:4-5). Those who turned a deaf ear to the cries of those they oppressed would find no one to listen to their cries in their distress (Micah 3:4). Jesus said, ” By your standard of measure, it will be measured to you (Matthew 7:2b). . .Therefore, however you want people to treat you, so treat them, for this is the Law and the Prophets” (Matthew 7:12). James 2:13 states, “For judgment will be merciless to one who has shown no mercy; mercy triumphs over judgment.” Someone has said, “Those that will not be ruled by grace will be overcome by judgment.”

What was the attitude of the wicked toward the Word of God?

They tried to silence God’s prophets, in this case, Micah himself (Micah 2:6a). They did not want to hear words that condemned them. They did not want to be held accountable. The faithful proclamation of God’s Word offended them. They lost sight of the protecting and preserving power of God’s Word (Micah 2:6b) and the good that it does in the lives of those who obey it (Micah 2:7). See also Amos 2:11-12 and 7:10-13. Micah proclaimed that the proof that his hearers had no regard for God’s Word was the way in which they treated their fellowman. The rich and powerful had become an enemy to the people of the land. They oppressed and exploited the poor, the unsuspecting, the helpless, and even women and children (Micah 2:8-9). They destroyed homes so that children did not have the opportunity to be educated to know the splendor or glory of God (Micah 2:9). Micah told the oppressors that they would be carried away and find no rest in their own land (Micah 2:10). Micah then told his audience that he knew the kind of preacher and preaching they would like: one whose sermons were full of hot air (Micah 2:11a) and one who condoned their vices and sins (Micah 2:11b). They would gladly listen to that kind of preacher (Micah 2:11c).

Practical Consideration: The truth of God’s Word is unwelcome to those who live in sin.
There were people in both the Northern and Southern Kingdoms who did not want to hear the truth of God’s Word. They tried in many instances to silence the prophets or to run them out of town. Those who live in sin do not want to hear the Word of God. It makes them feel uncomfortable. It offends because it condemns them. The writer of Hebrews declared, “For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, and piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart” (Hebrews 4:12).

What ray of hope shines at the end of Micah 2?

Micah introduced a ray of hope at the end of his prophesy against the oppressive rich and powerful. He spoke of a day when God would gather the scattered remnant from among the nations. In that day God would be like a Shepherd (Micah 2:12) and Liberator to His people (Micah 2:13).

What word did Micah have for the political leaders?

Micah denounced the political leaders for failing to practice justice (Micah 3:1 and 9), for losing their moral compass (Micah 3:2a) in that they hated good and loved evil, and for fiercely and thoughtlessly devouring the people (Micah 3:2b and 10). Micah warned them that they would experience a punishment in kind. The day would come when their enemies would treat these evil leaders in the same manner that they treated their poor countrymen. In the day of their distress their cries for help would go unheeded (Micah 3:4).

Practical Consideration: We should heed the Golden Rule.
The judgment of God upon the rich and powerful was punishment in kind. Those who took the possessions of others would lose their possessions (Micah 2:4-5). Those who turned a deaf ear to the cries of those they oppressed would find no one to listen to their cries in their distress (Micah 3:4). Jesus said, ” By your standard of measure, it will be measured to you (Matthew 7:2b) … Therefore, however you want people to treat you, so treat them, for this is the Law and the Prophets” (Matthew 7:12). James 2:13 states, “For judgment will be merciless to one who has shown no mercy; mercy triumphs over judgment.” Someone has said, “Those that will not be ruled by grace will be overcome by judgment.”

What word did Micah have for the prophets?

Micah denounced the spiritual leaders for adjusting their preaching according to their pay (Micah 3:5 and 11). As one commentator noted, “What came out of their mouths depended on what went in.” Micah announced that these false prophets would find themselves in darkness and no longer see visions (Micah 3:6) and find themselves without anything to say (Micah 3:7). Micah presented his credentials in Micah 3:8. In contrast to the false prophets, Micah announced that he was “filled with power – with the Spirit of the Lord – and with justice and courage.” He was willing to preach God’s message without compromise.

Practical Consideration: Divine work must be done in dependence upon divine power.
Micah denounced the spiritual leaders and prophets of his day for adjusting their message according to their income and prophesying for the benefit of those who paid them. Micah, on the other hand, preached God’s message without compromise. He was an untouchable! He could not be bought for a bribe. Micah’s heart and life was filled with power and with the Spirit of the Lord. He delivered a divine message in dependence upon divine power. His heart was filled with justice and courage. He preached the word of the Lord regardless of how unpopular the message might be to his hearers. God could count on Micah. Can He count on us?

What word did Micah have for all the leaders?

Micah announced that all the leaders of the land had become oppressors/exploiters of the weak, had lost their sense of what was right and fair, could be bought for a price, and yet felt immune from God’s judgment (Micah 3:9-11). Micah however, announced that because of the rampant sins of the leaders, God’s judgment would come. Jerusalem would be destroyed (Micah 3:12). Micah was the first prophet to predict doom for Jerusalem. Micah’s prophecy was fulfilled a century later.

What distinguishes Micah 4 from the first three chapters of the book?

Chapters 1-3 of Micah pronounce judgment. They are dark and foreboding chapters that address the sins of the cities of Samaria and Jerusalem, the sins of the rulers, and the sins of the rich and powerful. The third chapter of Micah concludes with a prophecy concerning the destruction of Jerusalem and the Temple because of the sins of the nation (Micah 3:12).

In contrast, Micah 4 begins with a note of hope. Looking far into the future (the Messianic age), Micah envisioned a day when the Temple would be rebuilt (Micah 4:1) and many nations would come there to learn God’s ways and depart to walk in a manner pleasing to Him (Micah 4:2). The central function of the Temple would be to give God’s Word to the nations rather than serve as the place for sacrifices.

Micah also envisioned a day when peace would reign in the world and there would be no more war, no more manufacturing of arms, and no more training of armies for war (Micah 4:3). Instead, war implements would be made into farm implements (Micah 4:3) and men would be able to live their lives free from the fears associated with war (Micah 4:4).

Practical Consideration: Envisioning the possibilities can help you deal with the actualities.
The first three chapters of Micah address the actualities through which the nation would pass because of her sin. Those actualities included God’s judgment and much suffering at the hands of foreign armies and nations. Those actualities included the despair and frustration, which the poor and weak experienced at the hands of the rich and powerful. Those actualities included people who felt they could sin without prospect of judgment and others who felt they had no avenue through which to pursue justice.

Micah 4 and 5 address the possibilities, the purpose behind God’s judgment of His people. They are chapters filled with the hope of a better and glorious future. They are chapters that remind us that we can endure present sufferings when we have the hope of a better future.

What advice did Micah have for the people?

Micah instructed his hearers to live their lives in obedience to God, unlike their heathen neighbors (Micah 4:5). God’s people must be distinctive. There must be a significant line of demarcation between the lives of God’s people and those who do not know God.

Practical Consideration: God’s people must be distinctive.
The theme that God’s people must be distinctive runs through the pages of Scripture. God’s people must live lives that show the difference that God makes. Our lives serve as letters of recommendation either for or against God. The key to living lives that are distinctive is obedience to the Word of God.

What would become of the scattered remnant?

Micah prophesied that “in that [future] day” God would gather the lame and scattered remnant (those who experienced the judgment of Micah 3:12) of Israel and transform them into a strong nation over which He would rule forever (Micah 4:7). In addition, Jerusalem would be restored and raised to its former dominion as head over a united kingdom (Micah 4:8).

Practical Consideration: God’s people have a future and a hope.
An agnostic writer noted, “In a modern society, man can live without hope only when kept dazed and out of breath by incessant hustling.” Many in our world live their lives without the assurance of a future and a hope. God’s people are fortunate indeed because they have the assurance that there is a purpose behind present sufferings and a reason to persevere. God is not finished with us yet!

What reference did Micah make to the coming exile?

Micah reminded his hearers that they would experience the loss of their king as well as pain like that of a woman in childbirth in the events leading to (and including) their deportation to Babylon. Micah however, introduced a word of hope by declaring that the Lord would rescue the people from their enemies. The purpose of the calamity and trials the people would experience was not to annihilate them, but to purge the land of idolatry and sin. (Micah 4:9-10).

Practical Consideration: God has a purpose for present sufferings.
The Northern and Southern Kingdoms experienced the judgment of God because of their sin. These nations had strayed far from God and allowed pagan practices to be incorporated into their polity and theology. God used other nations to purge His people and their land of those things that caused their love for Him to cool. This judgment was awesome proof of God’s love for His people and His desire to help them better fulfill their role as His representatives in the world.

What reference did Micah make to what Israel would experience in the last days?

Some scholars believe that Micah 4:11 refers to a reunified Israel in the last days because of the reference to “many nations.” Micah prophesied that many nations would try to destroy Israel (Micah 4:11) but that the Lord would act on behalf of His people (Micah 4:12) to give them victory over their enemies (Micah 4:13).

Others believe that Micah 4:11-13 refers to the attitude of neighboring nations during the destruction of the Southern Kingdom. They stand by and watch with delight and try to take advantage of her in her weakened condition (Micah 4:11). God however, has allowed these neighboring nations to gather around Israel to be like grain on the threshing floor (Micah 4:12). The Lord will then empower His people to destroy them and employ the spoil in the service of the Lord (Micah 4:13).

What reference did Micah make to the nation’s present predicament?

Micah declared (Micah 5:1) that the nation would be besieged by her enemies and her king(s) smitten on the cheek (a reference to insult and humiliation).

What assurance of deliverance did Micah proclaim?

While the nation’s present kings suffered at the hands of oppressors (Micah 5:1), Micah envisioned the day when God would raise up one from the seed of David who would rule Israel in glory and majesty (Micah 5:2). Micah’s prophesy about the coming ruler (Messiah) was uttered about 700 years before the birth of Christ. Notice the description of the Messiah in Micah 5:2:

[A]   He will be born in Bethlehem Ephrathah.

[B]   He will “go forth for Me,” that is, He will do the will and work of God.

[C]   He will be One who has always existed: “His goings forth are from long ago, from the days of eternity.”

In the meantime, Israel would continue to suffer (like a woman in labor) at the hands of her enemies (Micah 5:3), but would one day experience the protection and guidance of this ruler (Messiah) who would be like a Shepherd to them (Micah 5:4).

Practical Consideration: It’s Friday, but Sunday is coming!
Tony Campolo tells the story of hearing the Easter story told by a black preacher in an interesting way. The preacher pointed out that hell must have rejoiced when Christ hung on the cross, and then added, “That’s because it was Friday, but Sunday is coming!” Micah announced that while the nation and her leaders would suffer humiliation and defeat at the hands of her enemies, God was going to send a deliverer. Defeat is never the last word for God’s people. No matter how dark it gets on Friday, Sunday is just around the corner!

What did the people do in the meantime to deal with the pressures from Assyria?

After the Assyrians conquered the Northern Kingdom in 722 BC, they laid siege to Jerusalem in 701 BC. The Southern Kingdom raised up shepherds (kings) and leaders to oppose the Assyrians under Sennacherib (Micah 5:5). Micah 5:6 addresses the hope that one day Judah will conquer Assyria.

What did Micah prophesy would be the future of those surviving the judgment that he had announced?

Micah prophesied that God would not abandon the surviving remnant, but would work with them to strengthen them and assure them of a future. They would become like the dew (Micah 5:7) which spreads its influence over all the earth and as strong as a lion (Micah 5:8-9).

What steps would the Lord take to purify His people?

Micah declared that the Lord would purge Israel of everything that distracted and directed them away from God. The things that the Lord would remove included:

[A]   Military might (Micah 5:10-11): Trusting in horses, chariots, and fortifications.

[B]   False religious practices (Micah 5:12-14): Sorcery, fortune telling, carved images, sacred pillars, and Asherim.

In addition, Israel’s idolatrous neighbors, from whom she learned wrongdoing, would experience God’s judgment (Micah 5:15).

Practical Consideration: We should trust in the Lord.
It is easy to trust in things. God’s people trusted in military strength and looked for divine guidance from the wrong sources through the wrong methods. It is foolish for God’s people to trust in anyone or anything other than God. Why settle for less?

What charges did the Lord bring against His people?

The setting of Micah 6 is a courtroom. God called upon the mountains, hills, and foundations of the earth to hear His case against His people (Micah 6:1-2). The latter part of verse 2, “even with Israel He will dispute,” should be understood, “and He will plead [reason] with Israel.” God’s case was not built upon anger but love. God asked His people how His treatment of them could have possibly led to their present attitude (Micah 6:3). He asked for an answer, but none was given.

God then proceeded to appeal to history. He reminded them of the things He had done to redeem them, not weary them. He delivered them from bondage in Egypt and provided leaders for them (Micah 6:4). He protected them in the wilderness when Balak sought to curse and destroy them (Micah 6:5a). He was with them in Shittim, the last encampment in the wilderness, and miraculously led them across Jordan to Gilgal, the first encampment on the west side of the Jordan. God did these acts in order that His people “might know the righteous acts of the Lord” (Micah 6:5b). These events should have caused the people to respond to God in gratitude and obedience.

Practical Consideration: God takes notice of our ingratitude and faithlessness.
God’s faithfulness and goodness to us should cause us to respond to Him in gratitude (see Psalm 103:1-5). God never gives us cause to respond to Him in disobedience and faithlessness. In fact, God’s goodness and faithfulness accentuates our ingratitude and faithlessness. How would we respond if God were to ask us, “My people, what have I done to you, and how have I wearied you? Answer Me.” (Micah 6:3).

How did the people respond to God’s charges?

An unidentified speaker interrupted Micah and asked what God required of them. Did God want them to bow before Him? Did He want more and better sacrifices? Would He be satisfied with thousands of rivers of oil? Should they go so far as to sacrifice a first-born son to please Him? (Micah 6:6-7). Micah’s religious audience claimed to be doing all of the right religious things. They were, outwardly, very pious. They did every religious thing they knew to be rightly related to God. They seemed to be very concerned about their vertical relationship. But something was wrong! The people were doing right things with a wrong heart. As one commentator noted, they had lost their religion in religiousness. Their piety was devoid of ethics and character.

Practical Consideration: Religion cannot make men right with God.
Micah’s audience was very religious. They outwardly did all of the right things and said all of the right words. They appeared to be very zealous in religious matters. Their piety however, was devoid of ethics and character. They went through the activity of worship one day and then abused their fellowman the next day. They offered all of the right sacrifices in the daytime and then plotted evil on their beds at nighttime. And yet they did not feel that they were wrong with God (see Micah 3:11b). Religious activity does not make men right with God.

What was Micah’s response to the people?
Micah responded to the people by reminding them that while they were concerned with their vertical relationship, they had neglected their horizontal relationships. They were interested in doing the religious things that they thought would make them right with God, but neglected doing the things that would make them right with their fellowman. Micah reminded his audience that God had already told them what was good (Micah 6:8a). They did not need a new revelation, they needed to obey the revelation they already had. Micah reminded the people of the missing dimension in their lives (Micah 6:8b).

[A]   God requires His people “to do justice.” This means to set right what is wrong and to do what is right, fair, and honest between men.

[B]   God requires His people “to love kindness” or to practice faithful love. God requires His people to love others even when there is nothing that merits that love. We are to love others as God has loved us.

[C]   God requires His people “to walk humbly with your God.” A man who practices justice and faithful love can walk humbly with God. To “walk humbly” with God means to willingly submit to His will.

Practical Consideration: We should obey the truth that we have.
Micah reminded his audience that God had already told them what He required of them. Many believers today are also without excuse when it comes to knowing what God expects. We have the benefit of exposure to God’s Word through worship gatherings, Bible studies, and multi-media. The problem most believers have is not the need for more Bible study, but obeying what they already know from the Bible. Our need is not so much “to know” as it is “to do” what we already know.

What charges did God bring against the people of Judah and Jerusalem?

Once again, God brought charges against the city (Micah 6:9). The city of Jerusalem was a very influential city and its sins would not go unpunished. While God required His people “to do justice, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God” (Micah 6:8), the verses that follow show the corrupt state into which the nation had fallen.

[A]   The people were guilty of deception and dishonesty. They used false weights and measures to their advantage (Micah 6:10-11). See also Amos 8:5.

[B]   The wealthy used violence to advance their plans for gain (Micah 6:12a).

[C]   The people in general were deceitful and wicked (Micah 6:12b).

[D]   The people patterned their conduct after that of Omri and Ahab (Micah 6:16).

Practical Consideration: God notices how we treat one another.
The book of Micah illustrates the fact that God notices how we treat one another. Our horizontal relationships have an impact upon our vertical relationship. Jesus had much to say about this subject (see Matthew 5:23-24 and 6:14-15). The New Testament is filled with “one another” passages that accentuate the importance of how to properly interact with others.

How would the people be judged for their sinfulness?

Micah (6:13-16) declared that God would judge His people “because of your sins” (Micah 6:13b). They were marked for destruction, derision, and humiliation (Micah 6:16b). Notice that the people would experience frustration and futility (see also Amos 5:11b):

[A]   They would eat but not be satisfied (Micah 6:14).

[B]   They would try to save their earnings/possessions but not preserve anything (Micah 6:14).

[C]   They would sow but not reap (Micah 6:15).

[D]   They would tread olives and grapes but not enjoy the benefits of that labor (Micah 6:15).

What note of grief and despair did Micah utter?

Micah lamented that he was like a hungry man in search of food but could find none (Micah 7:1). He cried that there was no godly or upright person left in the land, only murderers and thieves (Micah 7:2). He cried that rulers and judges could be bought and that men were skillful at doing evil with both hands (Micah 7:3a). Men of the upper class were not ashamed to have their evil desires known by others and wove their evil plans with their partners to cheat and deceive and take from others (Micah 7:3b). Even the best of men was like a briar or thorn bush (Micah 7:4a). Surely the judgment announced by God’s prophets was imminent (Micah 7:4b). In the midst of and immediately after that judgment it would become unsafe to trust anyone, including family members and neighbors (Micah 7:5-6).

Practical Consideration: Society suffers when there is an absence of godly people.
Micah lamented that the godly had perished from the land and that there was an absence of upright people (see Micah 7:2). The godly play a vital role in society. Jesus said we are to be salt and light in the world (see Matthew 5:13-16). Salt preserves and spices and light enables men to see what they otherwise would not be able to see. Someone has also noted that when godly men do nothing evil runs rampant.

What note of hope concludes the book of Micah?

[A]   Micah declared that his trust was in the Lord and that he eagerly watched for the Lord who would act on his behalf (Micah 7:7).

[B]   Micah 7:8-10 are spoken from the viewpoint of Jerusalem who had suffered defeat and taunting at the hands of her enemies (Micah 7:8 and 10a). Jerusalem reminded her enemies that though she had fallen she would rise again and that though she was in darkness the Lord would be a light for her (Micah 7:8). Jerusalem also acknowledged that God’s judgment had come in response to her sins but that God would use the judgment in a redemptive way (Micah 7:9). In addition, Jerusalem’s enemies would suffer humiliation and defeat (Micah 7:10b). Micah 7:11-13 are hope-filled verses which declare the restoration of Jerusalem. Jerusalem’s walls would be rebuilt (Micah 7:11a), her boundaries would be enlarged (Micah 7:11b), and her exiles would return from throughout the earth (Micah 7:12). As for the rest of the world, it would suffer because of its wickedness (Micah 7:13).

[C]   Micah 7:14-17 beseech God to shepherd His people and restore to them the territory of Bashan and Gilead (territory east of the Jordan taken by the Assyrians after 734 BC). God responded by declaring that He would show His people miracles like those associated with the exodus from Egypt (Micah 7:15) and that their enemies would suffer defeat and humiliation (Micah 7:16-17).

[D]   Micah 7:18-20 are moving verses that deal with forgiveness. The hope contained in these verses is anchored in God’s promise to the patriarchs (Micah 7:20). These verses contain seven statements regarding God’s forgiveness:

[1] “Who is a God like Thee who pardons iniquity” – God is a forgiving God.

[2]   “And passes over the rebellious act of the remnant of His possession?” – God will not allow our sin to destroy our relationship with Him.

[3]   “He does not retain His anger forever” – God is redemptive in His attitude toward His people.

[4]   “Because He delights in unchanging love” – God is committed to honoring the terms of His covenant with His people. He continues to love His people even when they do not merit that love.

[5]   “He will again have compassion on us” – God cares for His people in a tender way. See also Psalm 103:13.

[6]   “He will tread our iniquities underfoot” – God will wash or cleanse His people of their sin.

[7]   “Yes, Thou wilt cast all their sins into the depth of the sea” – God is victorious over sin.

Habakkuk 3:17-19
3:17 [a detailed description of disasters (the loss of food sources) associated with God’s coming judgment at the hands of the Babylonians] Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls,

3:18 [a statement of how Habakkuk would respond to the disasters listed in 3:17] yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will be joyful in God my Savior.

3:19 [the basis for Habakkuk’s confident hope…] The Sovereign LORD is my strength; he makes my feet like the feet [swift and sure-footed] of a deer, he enables me to go on the heights [either places of potential danger or inner spiritual heights or both]. For the director of music [indicates that Habakkuk intended that the words be put to music]. On my stringed instruments.

Habakkuk 2:1-4

2:1 I will stand at my watch and station myself on the ramparts; I will look to see what he will say to me, and what answer I am to give to this complaint.

2:2 Then the LORD replied: “Write down the revelation [vision] and make it plain [legible so that it can be easily read] on tablets so that a herald may run with it.

2:3 For the revelation [note six facts concerning the revelation (vision)] [1] awaits an appointed time [God has determined the time (in the future) for its fulfillment]; [2] it speaks of the end [refers to events by which God will complete His work of judging Babylon] and [3] will not prove false [in the sense of disappointing those who trust in God]. [4] Though it linger [according to human expectations], wait for it [for the fulfillment (the fall of Babylon)]; [5] it will certainly come and [6] will not delay [will happen according to God’s timetable].

2:4 “See, he [Babylonians] is puffed up [with pride and self-importance]; his desires are not upright—but the righteous will live by his faith [refers to the faith and steadfastness of the Israelites; cf. Rom. 1:15; Gal. 3:11]—

Habakkuk 2:18-20
2:18 “Of what value is an idol, since a man has carved it? Or an image [the demonic spirits that inspire the worship of idols are real and deadly (cf. 1 Cor. 10:20)] that teaches lies [by encouraging people to seek life in anything other than a personal relationship with God through Christ]? For he who makes it trusts in his own creation; he makes idols that cannot speak.

2:19 Woe [a mocking song used to pronounce doom on evil doers] to him who says to wood, ‘Come to life!’ Or to lifeless stone, ‘Wake up!’ Can it give guidance? It is covered with gold and silver; there is no breath in it.

2:20 But [in contrast to idols] the LORD is in his holy temple [a reference to heaven and earth rather than to a building in one location]; let all the earth be silent before him.”