Bible Reflections From Scripture Union Volume OneSample

Man’s Plans versus God’s Plans
Read Micah 2:1-13

Woe to those who plan iniquity, to those who plot evil on their beds! Micah 2:1a

Those who plot and devise wicked schemes will face God’s wrath and judgment. People who are strong and powerful are in a position to exploit the weak, the helpless and the marginalized in society. Power corrupts and absolute power corrupts absolutely. Therefore there is a need in society for those who are God-fearing to speak out against corruption, oppression and abuses because God hates these sins.

God is not oblivious to the corruption, oppression and abuses in our society. He sees and hears the cries of the poor, the needy and the oppressed. In Malaysia we are plagued by illegal money lenders (‘the Ah Longs’) who lend out money to the desperate and the poor and then charge them exorbitant interest rates. These illegal money lenders have been known to be ruthless and violent. They will not hesitate to kill their debtors or their debtors’ loved ones if there is any default in repayment.

In some parts of Asia that are still largely agrarian, tenant farmers are very much at the mercy of powerful landlords who exploit them. Currently, one of the greatest social scourges is the trafficking of women and children who are sold into slavery and prostitution.

God is looking for those who will fearlessly speak out against such abuses so that the weak and the poor can be protected. God is just. He shall judge the wrong doers and deliver the oppressed.

What is my role in checking abuses that I see around me? Pray for governmental authorities and public interest groups (NGOs). Pray that they will be vigilant regarding oppression and abuses in society and highlight them so that laws can be passed to prosecute the offenders.

God, help me to stand in the gap before You on behalf of the needy and oppressed.