This Is the Old Testament is part of a twelve-week thematic overview of the entire Bible. Each day we’ll read a thematic selection from a different book or two of the Bible, along with supplemental passages that show how the theme of that day’s main reading is found throughout Scripture. We’ll also read a brief summary of each book and a reflection on how the book fits into the larger story of Scripture. This week, we’ll continue looking at the Minor Prophets.
What Is Micah? The book of Micah contains God’s judgment against the nation of Judah. It also includes prophecies about the fall of Samaria, the Babylonian captivity, the eventual return from exile, and the birth of Christ in Bethlehem.
How Micah Fits Into the Story: The book of Micah demonstrates that God is holy and just, and that He demands holiness and justice from all people. Micah’s audience had grown content in going through religious motions without genuine devotion, but he preached that true religion comes from a heart tuned to God, resulting in godly living. Those who refuse to repent will face God’s judgment, but the faithful will find His salvation and be led by the true King.
Reflection Questions:
1. Why is it tempting to pursue external displays of obedience over internal heart change? Why do you think Israel continually gave in to this temptation?
2. How does today’s reading shape your understanding of the story of redemption?
Take time to reflect on your responses and share what you are learning with others in the community in the comments.
Totally agree with everyone here! I struggle a lot with making the inside match the outside, I feel guilty of doing things out of obligation a lot, not even to “impress others” but to show God that I am good for following His rules. Recently I’ve come to understand what His grace actually means and I pray that I and everyone here grows more in the understanding of His grace and love.
I’m getting caught up this week. We have family visiting. Please pray for protection for me from my son’s negativity. I just found so much joy doing this study only to have a phone call from him to smash it. I know that Tanner has too much time alone and tends to focus on all negative. Especially when your body is failing you. No excuse though. It is so hard to focus on my insides when I have a constant battle with my son’s negativity. I try hard to change the direction of his thinking only for him to become angry. I try to do it in a way that is not inflammatory. Sometimes I just want to run away….
Traci, prayers for you and your son. I wonder that is anger is because he is feeling convicted but doesn’t know conviction from being condemned. I pray that the Lord help him understands the difference. I also pray that the Lord guides you in dealing with your son. He is your child and you want what is best for him. Just as God loves you. Keep the joy that Jesus gives you. Don’t let your son’s attitude steal your joy.
Despite what we do on the outside God will always love and forgive us. We are all sinners and all we have to do is ask and God will forgive us.
God I have sinned please forgive me. I praise Your name. Amen.
Have a blessed Thursday sisters.
Praying for you Munchkin.
External displays over obedience are so much easier. Looking good on the outside appeals greatly to our flesh. But God didn’t call us to an “easy” life or to “looking good”. He is holy and commands us to be holy in all manner of life. Sometimes it means great sacrifice, always it means to live humbly. How can I be successful in what God asks of me? By relying on the presence and power of the Holy Spirit, by trusting God and by walking by faith. Easy – no, but God will bless. Feed on His word, be bathed in prayer, walk in the Spirit and you will have a joy filled life – no matter what your circumstances might be!
@Melanie – praying that God heals your pain & that surgery will be scheduled soon.
@Laura – hope all went well with your daughter, I prayed wisdom & right words for you, and for your love for her to shine through.
@Taylor – it’s a blessing to hear how God is walking you through your heartaches and that you are trusting Him for the future!
Have a blessed Thursday my dear SRT sisters!
Jenn, your suggestions and encouragement for Laura are helpful for me too as I struggle to love and serve my own daughter. Sometimes I get caught up in worrying about what I am or am not doing to “fix” her….instead I need to focus on loving her and plead with God to be merciful to her and to grant her true faith and wisdom.
I am so thankful for this group of women who love each other so well. I just got a phone call from my son whose dog is very ill all the sudden and I ask you to pray for them.
Prayers for you Munchkin!!