How can we prepare for Christ's return as suggested in Micah 5:3? Micah’s Word for the Watchful (Micah 5:3) “Therefore Israel will be abandoned until she who is in labor has given birth; then the rest of His brothers will return to the children of Israel.” • The verse points to a season of waiting (“abandoned”) that ends with a birth and a reunion—mirroring our present wait for Christ’s return. • The “labor” image signals both pain and expectancy; it invites believers to prepare as surely as a mother readies for delivery. Waiting with Patient Expectation • Accept the timetable: God set a definite “until,” and His schedule is perfect (2 Peter 3:9). • Refuse despair: abandonment is temporary, but the promise is permanent (Hebrews 10:23). • Look for the signs Scripture calls “birth pains” (Matthew 24:8); let them stir hope, not fear. Living as the Faithful Remnant • Remain distinct from the surrounding culture, just as a remnant stayed true in Micah’s day (Romans 12:2). • Guard purity and holiness—“what kind of people ought you to be?” (2 Peter 3:11-12). • Hold fast to sound doctrine; false teaching undermines readiness (2 Timothy 4:3-4). Joining the Family When the Brothers Return • Micah foresees scattered “brothers” gathering. Strengthen church fellowship now: – Regular worship and mutual encouragement (Hebrews 10:24-25). – Practical care for one another’s needs (Galatians 6:10). • Share the gospel so more brothers and sisters are ready for the reunion (Matthew 28:19-20). Standing Firm amid Labor Pains • Expect creation’s groaning (Romans 8:22-23) and personal trials; use them to deepen reliance on Christ. • Persist in prayer (Colossians 4:2) and Scripture intake (Psalm 119:105); these anchor the soul when contractions intensify. • Guard your heart against panic and speculation; stay sober-minded (1 Thessalonians 5:6, 8). Keep Eyes on Bethlehem’s King • Micah 5:2 fixes our hope on the One “from the days of eternity.” Focus on His character—faithful, sovereign, victorious. • Celebrate His first coming each time you take the Lord’s Supper: “For as often as you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until He comes.” (1 Corinthians 11:26). • Let worship cultivate longing: “Amen. Come, Lord Jesus!” (Revelation 22:20). Practical Steps for Today • Daily repentance keeps your heart uncluttered for His arrival (Acts 3:19). • Practice stewardship—time, talents, treasure—so He finds you faithful (Matthew 25:20-21). • Build habits of hospitality; a welcoming home mirrors the welcome He will give (Romans 12:13). • Engage your community with justice and mercy, echoing Micah 6:8, so your life previews the righteous reign to come. “Behold, I am coming soon, and My reward is with Me, to give to each man according to what he has done.” (Revelation 22:12) |
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