Then the remnant of Jacob shall be in the midst of many peoples like dew from the LORD, like showers on the grass, which delay not for a man nor wait for the children of man.
Micah 5:7
One of the features of biblical prophecy in reference to Israel is the continuous presence of a "remnant" of faithful believers. Throughout every phase of the history of Israel, God has managed to keep at least a faithful few in worship of Him. And He preserves His promises to that faithful core. God can use that faithful remnant for His glory.
That is what this passage is about. Even though much of the second half of Micah five is about God's burning judgment, He makes it clear that a remnant of faithful Jews would still reside among the peoples of the world. Their presence is a refreshing dew or rainfall. God used them for His glory and the world would know Him through that faithful core that remained.
For me, the very existence of Israel, of the Jewish nation and religion in general, is an apologetic for the existence of God. I don't think there has been any more persecuted or hated group in the world today. Even today, the passions of the Middle East burn around the fate of Israel. Yet God is faithful to His promises. The Jews endure under His care and concern because God is faithful and keeps the remnant going.
He blessed the world forever through Israel in the coming of the Messiah. In Jesus the world has been offered a deep relationship with God. The remnant has refreshed us. And God still plans to keep honoring His covenant with Israel. It is clear that the future of this world revolves around what will happen in Israel and with the Jews. And one day Jesus will return to set up His kingdom among the remnant in Israel. That will be the ultimate fulfillment of Micah 5:7.
- Prepare your minds for action.
1 Peter 1:13
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