The answer is: Joel

Notably, Joel focuses on themes of repentance and restoration, echoing calls to return to God — similar to Micah’s messages of justice and faithfulness (Micah 6:8). Both prophets highlight God's compassion amidst judgment.

To appreciate the placement of Joel just before Micah in the Old Testament, it's helpful to understand that both are part of what scholars refer to as the Minor Prophets — a collection of twelve prophetic books. These short texts packing punch were often addressed to Israel and Judah during time periods filled with turbulence and change.

Joel's prophecy is intriguing as he focuses on a locust plague that an Israelite audience could relate to deeply. This was not just a natural disaster; it was highly symbolic of impending judgment, calling the people to repentance and focusing also on the Day of the Lord—where spiritual restoration was intertwined with divine retribution. This notion echoes throughout the prophetic writings, illustrating a consistent theme of warning followed by hope.

Jumping ahead to Micah, which sits just after Amos and one book after Nahum, we find prophetic voices calling for social justice and highlighting the importance of acting righteously. Micah 6:8, known for its famous declaration to "do justly, love mercy, walk humbly," captures a core moral ethos that extends throughout scripture.

It’s worth noting that the order of these texts embodies not just chronology but thematic development, moving from calamitous warnings in Joel to calls for ethical reflection in Micah. Ultimately, these writings serve as reminders that spiritual and social dimensions walk hand in hand, inviting readers to apply Biblical values vigorously in today's context.