: Walking in the light of God’s redemption and forgiveness involves trusting that HaShem releases us from shame.
Articles
Habakkuk has learned some things in these three chapters. God’s justice unfolds at what may seem like a slower pace to us. However, God will fill the earth with the knowledge of His glory. And while we wait, and while it seems the wicked are winning, righteous people are to live with emunah.
Habakkuk’s example affirms that it is okay to come to God with our hardest questions. Too often in religious circles, people hesitate to ask questions. That’s a shame…because asking questions is very Biblical!
The truth is, we serve a good God. He’s a really good God. And part of what makes Him good is that He hates evil and wickedness and things that bring destruction to individuals, families, and societies.
Micah has cataloged the idolatry, injustice, greed, corruption, and terrible leadership of Judah. He has even warned that Jerusalem and the Temple could be destroyed. But forgiveness and mercy are the final word.
A good parent and a good leader hold us accountable but also give us a vision for where we can go and what we can be. Micah’s vision of what Judah and Jerusalem were made for is much bigger than Judah alone.
Yonah is an incredible book that can be understood on multiple levels. As we know, it makes for a good story that children can enjoy. But we should not let that mislead us into thinking that Yonah is a simple book. It is actually quite deep. And Yonah has massive prophetic significance.
There are few things that seem to fuel the anger of HaShem more than strife, discord, and disloyalty within families. It’s an abomination when people within families turn on each other. And that is exactly what we see in Ovadiah regarding Edom toward Israel.
Amos reminds us that God roars when there is injustice. And if He sends us correction, it’s best that we listen closely. But even when there is judgment, restoration will eventually come!
Thumbnail copy: Returning to God begins with the heart. And it is a heart that is broken and determined to change its ways that leads to blessing for the Jewish people. I believe that path of blessing still holds true for the world today.
