“Is it not for you to know justice?”

Micah 3:1-8, And I said, “Hear now, heads of Jacob and rulers of the house of Israel. Is it not for you to know justice? “You who hate good and love evil, who tear off their skin from them and their flesh from their bones, and who eat the flesh of my people, strip off their skin from them, break their bones, and chop them up as for the pot and as meat in a kettle.” Then they will cry out to the LORD, but He will not answer them. Instead, He will hide His face from them at that time, because they have practiced evil deeds. Thus says the LORD concerning the prophets who lead my people astray; when they have something to bite with their teeth, they cry, “Peace,” but against him who puts nothing in their mouths, they declare holy war. Therefore it will be night for you—without vision, and darkness for you—without divination. The sun will go down on the prophets, and the day will become dark over them. The seers will be ashamed and the diviners will be embarrassed. Indeed, they will all cover their mouths because there is no answer from God. On the other hand I am filled with power— with the Spirit of the LORD— and with justice and courage to make known to Jacob his rebellious act, even to Israel his sin.

We see a very harsh judgment against the leaders, one that is frighteningly close to some leaders today who see nothing wrong with disposing of the unborn. And prophets of the day “who lead people astray” fare no better, as is the case today in many “feel good” churches where the concept of sin, redemption and repentance is never mentioned. Darkness descends upon the land yet even so God is faithful: He raises up prophets who will risk their lives to proclaim the truth, bringing His light into the darkness. Paul tells us to pray for our leaders, those in authority that we might live in peace. Are we faithful to this call?

You appoint leaders over nations; help us to be faithful to pray for those whom You appoint over us. Thank You that You are in control of everything, especially those things we don’t understand!