via TJC
Her leaders judge for a bribe, her priests teach for a price, and her prophets tell fortunes for money. Yet they look for the Lord’s support and say, “Is not the Lord among us? No disaster will come upon us.”
Micah 3:11
Today we start Micah, another old testament prophet who lays bare Irsael’s transgressions against God. It was written by Micah of Moresheth, which was a town about 25 miles from Jerusalem. Scholars date the book to around 750-730 BC due to the mention of known kings of Judah: Jotham, Ahaz and Hezekiah. It consists of 7 chapters covering more sins of the Israelites, the consequences of that sin and again ends with the hope of God’s promised faithfulness in spite of their unfaithfulness.
In Micah’s time, favorable judgements, teachings and prophecies were available for a price, all under the banner of “God’s name”. The greed of the decision makers, even religious leaders, was on display for all to see! This verse made me think of how our world is increasingly trying to monetize every aspect of our lives to suck the most “value” out of every human interaction. From education to phone apps, the focus is usually on making a bank account increase and not on providing useful services to the community.
The charity that God calls us to is in direct contrast to this trend. He expects us to share the money, time, wisdom and possessions he graciously gives us with others less fortunate without requiring compensation, to help build our community and His church. Instead of accumulating wealth, we are called to accumulate conversions, souls who experience Christ and choose to follow Him through our displays of God’s Love!
Daily Battle Order:
Today, search your heart and ask God to show you how successful you have been in giving charity. What was the state of your heart when you were giving your time, money or advice? Then say a prayer thanking God for whatever he has given you and asking to align your heart more with His next time you are called to give.