Micah 5 Devotional

Greatness From a Small Place

“But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, who are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come forth for Me One to be ruler over Israel—One whose origins are of old, from the days of eternity.”Micah 5:2 (BSB)

Chapter 5 opens with Jerusalem under siege and the judge of Israel struck on the cheek (5:1). Then the prophet looks to Bethlehem, small among the clans of Judah. From there will come one to rule Israel for God, whose origins reach back to the days of eternity (5:2). He will shepherd his flock in the strength of the LORD, his greatness will reach the ends of the earth, and he will be their peace (5:4-5). When Herod asked where the Christ would be born, the chief priests and scribes answered with this verse (Matthew 2:4-6).

The ruler comes from a small town, yet his origins are older than time. God works salvation through what looks humble. The chapter closes with God removing the very things his people leaned on: horses and chariots, fortified cities, sorceries, carved images, and sacred poles (5:10-14). He takes away false securities so that they will rest in the Shepherd he sends. Jesus is that Shepherd, and his strength is enough for the flock he guards, including you.

To think about: What false security might God be loosening in your life so that you will lean on Jesus as your shepherd?