Micah

¹ The siege is set against us. They humiliate Israel's king, slapping him around like a rag doll.

² the runt of the litter— From you will come the leader who will shepherd-rule Israel. He'll be no upstart, no pretender. His family tree is ancient and distinguished.

³ until the birth pangs are over and the child is born, And the scattered brothers come back home to the family of Israel.

⁴ centered in the majesty of God-Revealed. And the people will have a good and safe home, for the whole world will hold him in respect— Peacemaker of the world!

⁵ invades and violates our land, don't worry. We'll put him in his place, send him packing, and watch his every move.

⁶ to Assyria and all other Nimrod-bullies. Our shepherd-ruler will save us from old or new enemies, from anyone who invades or violates our land.

⁷ like an island in the sea of peoples. They'll be like dew from God, like summer showers Not mentioned in the weather forecast, not subject to calculation or control.

⁸ like an island in the sea of peoples, Like the king of beasts among wild beasts, like a young lion loose in a flock of sheep, Killing and devouring the lambs and no one able to stop him.

⁹ your enemies will be no more!

¹⁰ —God's Decree— "When there will be no more war. None. I'll slaughter your war horses and demolish your chariots.

¹¹ and level your fortifications.

¹² your underworld traffic in black magic.

¹³ and chop down your phallic posts. No more taking control of the world, worshiping what you do or make.

¹⁴ and destroy the God-defiant.

¹⁵ of godless nations who haven't listened."