Like Amos, Micah speaks to Israel about the coming judgment of the people. His ministry began in 740BC. By 722 BC, the Assyrians take Israel into captivity. With every prophesy, God always give a warning. But, He also gives a promise. He is a just God, but also a merciful God. God’s word always has a message, and although Micah may be speaking to Israel, all of us need to take note. What He teaches one people are words for all people. The words of more than 2000 years ago still apply today.
Continue reading “Micah: Warnings and Hope”Tag: Israel
Obadiah: Speaking to Neighboring Nations
Obadiah is one of the few prophets that speak entirely to a nation other than Israel. Although God’s people often turn from Him, they are still His Chosen People. Like a loving Father, though He may discipline and rebuke His children when they do wrong, He will always protect them and will deal with those who mistreat them. This is the case with Edom, a nation that was related to the Israelites. They were descendants of Esau, Jacob’s brother. As Israel was going through hard times (many were taken captive to Babylon), instead of Edom helping their relatives they gloated and often attacked and looted their homes. God does not look kindly on those who mistreat His people and they will suffer the consequences. Even though Obadiah was speaking specifically to the Edomites, it may be something to take note for other nations and peoples as well.
Continue reading “Obadiah: Speaking to Neighboring Nations”Joel: Warnings and Prophecies
God often starts a prophecy with a warning, but He also offers hope and blessing. God wants His people to do the right thing, to turn to Him, to be blessed. But sometimes, people are stubborn and it takes drastic measures to get their attention. Actions result in consequences. Ever wonder why there is so much chaos and so many troubles in this world? Perhaps we need to turn to God. Perhaps He is trying to get our attention.
Continue reading “Joel: Warnings and Prophecies”Hosea: God Waits for His People to Come to Him
God blessed Israel in so many ways, yet they abused those blessings by turning to false gods and trusting in themselves and others. He waits for His people to turn to Him. Like the prodigal son, He will be there and accept him with open arms and celebrate his return to Him. In the previous post, we discussed how God would turn from His people until they turn back to Him. But He is always there and will show mercy and grace to all who will accept it and trust in Him.
Continue reading “Hosea: God Waits for His People to Come to Him”Hosea: God’s Charge Against the Nation
Hosea has a message for Israel that I think can also apply to this country (and perhaps to the world): Turn away from your idols and turn back to God. The country was in relative prosperity, but that was soon to change. As I read through Hosea, it keeps reminding me of the world we live in. People are accepting immorality as the “new normal.” God is being forgotten and some are even being hostile toward Him and anyone who believes in Him. Persecution is prevalent in many countries and it may not be long before it is here too. Laws are being passed that go against God and His righteousness. People are all about what is comfortable for them and don’t want to accept consequences. We live in a “me” society. Much like Israel was in Hosea’s time. And God had a message for them.
My Daily Scriptures 