PLOWSHARES AND PRUNING HOOKS

Micah prophesies a future time when Jesus will judge between many peoples and will settle disputes for strong nations far and wide. When the inhabitants of the earth during that time will beat their swords into farming equipment (plowshares) and their spears into gardening equipment (pruning hooks). Nations will not fight with each other anymore, therefore they will not make provisions for a military. (Micah 4:3)

To ponder the returning to pre-Fall (pre-Sin) like conditions is captivating. The inhabitants will be stewards of a drastically changed topography due to all of humanity's irresponsibility and the judgments during The Tribulation Period. However, as long as people give Christ His due tribute, Jesus will continue to send rain for the crops and harvest, just as He did in Deuteronomy 11:13-15 (Zechariah 14:16-18). I also believe God will return the process of farming and planting back to an easier, blessed activity (Genesis 3:17-19; Zechariah 8:12). Reigning with Christ over the nations and other things is something I look forward to understanding more about and participating in - Blessed and holy are those who share in the first resurrection. The second death has no power over them, but they will be priests of God and of Christ and will reign with him for a thousand years. (Revelation 20:6)

Our world today is far from this reality. Looking forward to this Biblical time scholars call The Millennial Reign of Christ or The Millennium is when we find these prophecies being manifested and completely fulfilled. However, it does not mean we cannot and should not seek peace and reconciliation now. Scripture admonishes believers to pray for the peace of Jerusalem specifically (Psalm 122:6). But we know our whole world needs prayer for a restored relationship to their Creator and Sustainer - Christ Jesus. So, I pray -

"Dear Lord, only when you rise to rule will the nations find rest from war. Your promise gives us courage to ask You to begin this work of peace even today. Please, disarm our hearts and dismantle grievances between racial and social groupings. Walk with us and train us in Your ways of peace. Take away the bitterness, jealousy, and pride that so easily entangles us. In Your Name, Jesus Christ, I pray - Amen."

Comments