Micah 1

Scripture Reading:  Read Micah Chapter 1.   

It Starts in Washington:

Micah 1:5 – “All this is because of Jacob’s transgression, because of the sins of the people of Israel. What is Jacob’s transgression? Is it not Samaria? What is Judah’s high place? Is it not Jerusalem?” (NIV)

We find ourselves in the midst of another presidential election cycle, and political polarization is perhaps worse than ever in our country.  I think it’s good for Christians to be involved in political matters so that we might influence our country toward godliness. However, many have turned a handful of issues into the reason why our nation has become so corrupt. 

For example, our policy positions regarding immigration and abortion are essential, but our answer to those issues is not the reason we are a corrupt nation.  The reason we are a corrupt nation is that we are a corrupt people.

Both capital cities of Samaria and Jerusalem were to blame because, at the heart of both nations, the leadership was turned away from God.  As a nation and in our personal lives, the only hope for redemption is the renovating work of Jesus Christ.  If redemption is possible, however, it must happen in the capital. 

This is true as a nation, but it’s also true in our hearts.  We must not commit one part of our lives to the Lord while ignoring other areas of sin.  The capital cities, Jerusalem and Samaria, were rotten to the core.  But it doesn’t have to be that way; we can invite the Lord to take up residence in our souls, giving us hearts that are devoted to Jesus. 

Prayer:  Lord, I pray that you would renovate the hearts and minds of those in leadership in our country.  And for my soul, Lord, I ask for your Spirit to produce an undivided heart in me.