August 18

Walking Steadily in Shaking Times

Today's Reading

Old Testament
  • Micah 1-4
  • Psalm 10

New Testament
  • Matthew 24

Devotion

Micah 1–4 begins with God’s deep grief over the sins of His people. Through the prophet Micah, He confronts idolatry, greed, and the oppression of the poor. Yet even as judgment is announced, God offers a stunning vision of hope:

“In the last days the mountain of the Lord’s temple will be established… Nations will stream to it… He will teach us His ways, so that we may walk in His paths.” (Micah 4:1–2)

This promise reminds us that God’s story doesn’t end in judgment but in restoration. One day, the brokenness of the world will be healed, and His peace will cover the earth.

Psalm 10 echoes the cry of those who feel the weight of evil and suffering:
“Why, Lord, do you stand far off? Why do you hide yourself in times of trouble?” (Psalm 10:1)
But the psalm ends with renewed trust:
“The Lord is King for ever and ever… You, Lord, hear the desire of the afflicted.” (vv. 16–17)

When life feels unfair, when wickedness seems to win, we can rest in the truth that God still reigns and sees the cries of the oppressed.

In Matthew 24, Jesus warns His disciples that the world will face turmoil: wars, famines, persecution, and false teachers. Yet He calls His followers to remain steadfast:
“The one who stands firm to the end will be saved.” (Matthew 24:13)

Together, these passages remind us that the world may shake, but God is unshaken. We are called not to panic, compromise, or give up, but to walk humbly with God, practice justice and mercy (Micah 6:8), and hold tightly to the hope that Christ is coming again.

Steadiness in shaking times comes from keeping our eyes on the unshakable God.

Reflection Questions

  1. Where do I see fear or frustration tempting me to doubt God’s control in difficult times?
  2. How can I live out Micah 6:8—acting justly, loving mercy, and walking humbly—this week?
  3. What promises from Scripture can I cling to so I can “stand firm” in my faith as Jesus calls us to in Matthew 24?

Prayer

Lord, You are my King, even when the world feels unstable. Forgive me for the times I let fear or distraction pull me away from You. Teach me to walk humbly, love mercy, and do what is just in Your eyes. Help me to stand firm, rooted in Your Word and filled with hope for the day You will set all things right. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

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