06/16/2026
Here is a five-minute spiritual fitness exercise from your Post Chaplain- Brian J. Styer:
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When Shepherds Become Wolves
Micah 1–4; Psalm 9
Micah preached to people who still had religious language but had lost covenant faithfulness. The leaders of Israel were supposed to shepherd God’s people with truth, justice, and mercy. Instead, many had become wolves in shepherd’s clothing.
They used power to take. They used religion to profit. They used influence to protect themselves while the poor, widows, orphans, and vulnerable families were crushed beneath them.
Micah’s words are severe because God’s holiness is serious. The Lord sees what people hide. He sees greed planned in private. He sees leadership that consumes instead of protects. He sees worship that sounds spiritual but is not matched by obedience.
But Micah does not leave us in judgment. He also gives hope.
God promises to gather His remnant. He promises to shepherd His people. He promises that His kingdom will be established and that the nations will one day learn His ways. Psalm 9 reminds us why this matters: “The LORD also will be a refuge for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble.”
That is good news for the wounded, and it is a warning to those who misuse strength.
The question for us is not merely, “Do we sound religious?” The deeper question is, “Are we walking with God?”
Are we using our strength to serve or to take? Are we protecting the vulnerable or ignoring them? Are we speaking truth or selling comfort? Are we practicing justice, loving mercy, and walking humbly with our God?
As Christians, we see Micah’s hope fulfilled in Jesus Christ. He is the true Shepherd who does not devour the sheep. He lays down His life for the sheep. He is the King who does not exploit the weak but saves sinners by His grace.
Today, come to Christ. If you need forgiveness, His mercy is greater than your sin. If you need healing, He is a refuge in trouble. If you need direction, surrender your strength, time, gifts, and calling to Him.
The world has seen enough selfish power and empty religion. Our homes, churches, and communities need men and women who will follow the Shepherd-King and serve God by loving their neighbors.
Lord, make us faithful shepherds wherever You have placed us. Teach us to do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with You. Amen.
Dr. Brian J. Styer
Pastor, Chaplain, and Author
