Micah 7:5
“Do not trust a neighbor; put no confidence in a friend. Even with the woman who lies in your embrace guard the words of your lips.”
Micah 7:5 Meaning
Micah 7:5 warns us to be cautious and discerning in our relationships. It cautions against blindly trusting our neighbors, putting confidence in our friends, or being careless in our intimate relationships. This verse reminds us that not everyone we encounter has our best interests at heart and that we should guard what we say even in close relationships.
Micah 7:5 Commentary and Explanation
In our journey of faith, it is important to understand that not everyone we come across will have our best interests at heart. This verse reminds us to be cautious and discerning in our relationships. While it is essential to love and care for others, blind trust can lead to disappointment and hurt. It is not saying we should be suspicious of everyone, but rather encourages us to exercise wisdom and discernment.
Trusting our neighbors and having confidence in our friends is not inherently wrong, but this verse warns us not to place our ultimate trust and confidence in anyone other than God. People are flawed and imperfect, and even the closest friendships can encounter challenges. Putting our trust solely in God ensures that we will not be disillusioned or hurt by the actions of others.
Additionally, the verse mentions the importance of guarding the words of our lips, even in intimate relationships. This highlights the significance of being mindful of the way we communicate and the impact our words can have. In our relationships, it is crucial to speak truthfully, respectfully, and with love. By guarding our words, we can prevent unnecessary conflict or damage to our relationships.
It is important to note that this verse does not discourage us from forming genuine connections with others or from seeking help and support from trusted friends. Rather, it serves as a reminder to prioritize our relationship with God and to be discerning in our interactions with others.
Also Read: Luke 10:39-42 Meaning and Commentary
Context of Micah 7:5
Micah was a prophet who lived during a time of corruption and injustice in Israel. He delivered divine messages warning the people of the consequences of their disobedience and calling them to repentance.
This particular verse is part of a passage in which Micah describes the sinful state of society. He highlights the widespread dishonesty and corruption, warning the people of the impending judgment that will come as a result of their actions.
In verses 1-4 of Micah 7, the prophet expresses his dismay at the lack of righteous people and evil prevailing in society. He laments the absence of moral integrity and trustworthiness. Then, in verse 5, he gives a specific instruction to not trust a neighbor, put no confidence in a friend, and to guard the words of our lips even in intimate relationships.
Breaking Down the Key Parts of Micah 7:5
“Do not trust a neighbor”: This phrase advises caution in our relationships with those around us. While we should treat our neighbors with love and kindness, we should also be discerning and not blindly trust everyone.
“Put no confidence in a friend”: This highlights the importance of not solely relying on our human relationships for security and support. While friends can be a source of encouragement and assistance, trusting solely in them can lead to disappointment.
“Even with the woman who lies in your embrace guard the words of your lips”: This reminds us to be mindful of our words, even in our most intimate relationships. It emphasizes the importance of communicating with love, respect, and honesty.
Lessons From Micah 7:5
1. Prioritize God: This verse serves as a reminder to prioritize our relationship with God above all else. While friendships and relationships are valuable, it is essential to place our ultimate trust in Him.
2. Exercise Discernment: As we interact with others, it is important to exercise discernment and wisdom. Not everyone we encounter will have our best interests at heart, and it is crucial to be cautious and not blindly trust everyone.
3. Guard Your Words: The Bible places great emphasis on the power of our words. This verse reminds us to be mindful of our speech, even in intimate relationships. By guarding our words, we can maintain healthier and more loving connections.
Biblical Translations of Micah 7:5
Micah 7:5 King James Version (KJV)
“Trust ye not in a friend, put ye not confidence in a guide: keep the doors of thy mouth from her that lieth in thy bosom.”
Micah 7:5 English Standard Version (ESV)
“Put no trust in a neighbor; have no confidence in a friend; guard the doors of your mouth from her who lies in your arms.”
Micah 7:5 New American Standard Bible (NASB)
“Do not trust in a neighbor; Do not have confidence in a friend. From her who lies in your bosom Guard your lips.”
Micah 7:5 New King James Version (NKJV)
“Do not trust in a friend; Do not put your confidence in a companion; Guard the doors of your mouth From her who lies in your bosom.”
Micah 7:5 Revised Standard Version (RSV)
“Put no trust in a neighbor, have no confidence in a friend; guard the doors of your mouth from her who lies in your bosom.”
Micah 7:5 New Living Translation (NLT)
“Don’t trust anyone— not your best friend or even your wife! For the son despises his father. The daughter defies her mother. The daughter-in-law defies her mother-in-law. Your enemies are right in your own household!”
Final Thoughts
Micah 7:5 reminds us to be cautious in our relationships, to place our ultimate trust in God, and to be mindful of our words. While not everyone we encounter will have our best interests at heart, this should not discourage us from forming genuine connections and seeking support from trusted friends. By exercising discernment and prioritizing our relationship with God, we can navigate our relationships with wisdom and love.