Dear HBIC Family,

A few years ago, we studied the life of David together. One of the most consistent lessons in every season of David’s life was willingness to completely put and keep his faith in God. When God chose him based on his heart and not his outward appearance or family status, David trusted God to make him king. When he took on Goliath, ran from Saul, or sinned greatly, David trusted God by putting his life and destiny in God’s hands. It is quite a lesson to us as well: Are we willing to trust God, fully, in every season and with every lesson we face in this life?

David’s lesson also shows up in at the conclusion of the book of Micah. The prophet has spent his ministry writing and preaching, calling his people back to God. The people have been unfaithful to God for centuries and generations, yet Micah calls them back to God. God’s judgment has been earned and is coming, yet Micah calls them back to God. Religious and political leaders have consistently led the people astray or justified their sins, yet Micah calls them back to God. Why? It is because Micah knew what David knew. It is always a grace and blessing to trust in God’s love and mercy.

This week we will be finishing our Micah: Walk Humbly with Your God series by focusing on its final chapter. Here in chapter seven, we find a prophet reeling from the state of his land, the lack of faith and lack of obedience of his people, and the sin that has so completely engulfed the children of God. Nevertheless, as Micah leans on his complete trust in God, he is able to move from misery to promise, and finally to prayer and praise. As you prepare for this week’s services, I would like to invite you to read and meditate on Micah 7. As you reflect, I would like to ask you to focus on the following questions:

• What in your world is currently bringing you misery?
• What promises of God are you holding onto in this season?
• How is God calling you to pray today?
• For what can you give thanks to God right now?
• How is God calling you to trust and rely more on him?

I love that we serve a God whose mercies are new every morning. I love that we worship a God who is worthy of all our praises. I love that we know a God who sees us, holds us, and promises to carry us through. Life is full of obstacles and challenges. We are blessed to have our God on our side.

My sisters and brothers, let not despair cloud your eyes. Let not struggle keep you from God’s mercy. Let not our world depress your joy. Our God promises mercy for our misery, healing for our brokenness, and light for every darkness. No matter what we face, God is with us. No matter where we are, God is with us. No matter what life brings, God is with us.

God bless you all.

Love in Christ,

Pastor Hank (Micah 7:18)