“Hear this, you leaders of Jacob, you rulers of Israel, who despise justice and distort all that is right; who build Zion with bloodshed, and Jerusalem with wickedness” (3:9-10). Micah had harsh words for Jerusalem’s leaders who wanted to “build Zion” – God’s kingdom – with the world’s methods of violence and injustice. Shockingly, Israel’s priests and prophets profited from telling lies, yet they felt safe and said, “Is not the Lord among us?” (3:11). Micah warned that disaster was coming (3:12).

“But as for me, I am filled with power” (3:8). Ungodly actions and methods will not build God’s kingdom. Instead, like Micah, God gives power for His own purposes – so that we live faithfully and glorify Jesus.