Micah 5:7

And the remnant of Jacob shall be in the midst of many people as a dew from the Lord, as the showers upon the grass, that tarrieth not for man, nor waiteth for the sons of men.

Micah 5:7 (KJV)

Context

Micah was a prophet who lived during the eighth century BCE in Judah, during the reigns of Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah. The book of Micah contains prophecies concerning both the northern kingdom of Israel and the southern kingdom of Judah. Micah’s prophecies primarily address the social injustices, idolatry, and corruption prevalent in both kingdoms, while also offering hope and restoration. In Micah 5, the promise of a coming Messiah from Bethlehem (Micah 5:2) is followed by this description of the faithful remnant.

Meaning

In Micah 5:7, the “remnant of Jacob” refers to the faithful and loyal followers of God who will be preserved and endure through times of judgment and captivity. It represents a faithful remnant of the people of Israel who remain true to God amidst the prevailing unfaithfulness and disobedience. This remnant is described as being “in the midst of many people,” indicating that they would live among the nations, scattered but present.

The image of the remnant of Jacob being “as a dew from the Lord” emphasizes their refreshing and life-giving impact on the nations surrounding them. Dew is a metaphor for God’s blessings and favor, indicating that the remnant of Jacob will be a source of spiritual nourishment and blessing to the nations they interact with. The phrase “as the showers upon the grass” signifies the abundance and sufficiency of God’s blessings upon the remnant of Jacob. Just as showers bring growth, vitality, and fertility to the grass, the remnant will bring blessings and prosperity to the nations among whom they dwell.

The latter part of the verse states that the dew “tarrieth not for man, nor waiteth for the sons of men.” This suggests that the remnant of Jacob does not rely on the help or approval of mankind to carry out God’s purposes. They are divinely empowered and act independently, guided solely by God’s will and not subject to human limitations. The blessing is entirely dependent on God’s sovereign will and timing, not on human effort, command, or expectation.

Application

This verse teaches that God’s work through His people is not hindered by human limitations or waiting for human permission. The remnant’s role is to be a channel of God’s blessing in the world, a blessing that operates on God’s schedule, not man’s. This passage offers hope that God preserves a faithful people for Himself and works through them sovereignly, independent of human power or approval.

Reflection

In summary, Micah 5:7 portrays the remnant of Jacob as a source of God’s blessings to the nations, acting independently and not relying on human assistance. This verse offers hope of preservation and restoration for the faithful, pointing to Jesus Christ as the ultimate fulfillment of the remnant’s purpose.