“No, O people, the Lord has told you what is good. This is what he requires of you: do what is right, love mercy, and walk humbly with your God” (Mal. 6:8).
Summary of part 1
In the Old Testament, the book of Micah presents several powerful messages. They come from the prophet Micah to the people of Israel. One verse is notable. It is profoundly simple and clear in describing what the Lord requires of His followers. Micah 6:8.
“No, O people, the Lord has told you what is good. This is what he requires of you: do what is right, love mercy, and walk humbly with your God.”
This verse encapsulates the essence of a life lived according to God’s will. It emphasizes three key principles: justice, mercy, and humility. In this post, we will explore each of these principles. We aim to understand their significance and how they apply to our lives today.
Act Justly
Justice is a central theme in the Bible, and it is clear that God values it highly. To act justly means to live a life of integrity, fairness, and righteousness. It involves treating others with respect and ensuring that our actions are guided by principles of equity and moral rightness.
In the context of ancient Israel, acting justly meant upholding the laws. It involved obeying the commandments that God had given to His people. It required them to protect the rights of the vulnerable, like widows, orphans, and foreigners. Today, acting justly calls us to stand against injustice in all its forms, whether it be discrimination, exploitation, or oppression. It challenges us to advocate for those who can’t speak for themselves. We must work towards creating a society where everyone is treated with dignity and respect.
The call to act justly also extends to our personal lives. It involves being honest in our dealings with others. It means honoring our commitments. We should live in a way that reflects God’s character. This is a call to be mindful of the impact of our actions on those around us. We should strive to make choices that promote fairness and equality.
Love Mercy
Mercy, or loving-kindness, is another essential aspect of what the Lord requires. To love mercy means to show compassion and forgiveness to others, reflecting the grace that God has shown to us. It involves a willingness to exceed what justice requires. It also means extending kindness and generosity to those in need.
In the Bible, God’s mercy is often highlighted as one of His defining attributes. Psalm 103:8, for example, describes God as “merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love.” As followers of God, we are called to emulate this mercy in our interactions with others.
Loving mercy means being quick to forgive and slow to judge. It challenges us to let go of grudges and to seek reconciliation rather than retribution. It calls us to show kindness to those who do not deserve it. We should also offer help to those who are struggling. By loving mercy, we create a culture of compassion and empathy, where people feel valued and cared for.
Walk Humbly with Your God
The final command in Micah 6:8 is to walk humbly with your God. Humility is a recognition of our dependence on God and an acknowledgment of His sovereignty over our lives. It involves a posture of submission and trust, where we seek to follow God’s will rather than our own.
Walking humbly with God means living in a way that honors Him and reflects His character. It requires us to listen to His guidance, to seek His wisdom, and to obey His commandments. It means recognizing that our value and worth come from our relationship with Him, not from our achievements or status.
Humility also calls us to serve others selflessly. It challenges us to put the needs of others above our own. We should seek ways to contribute to the well-being of our communities. By walking humbly with God, we show our commitment to living a life that pleases Him. This life also brings glory to His name.
Conclusion
Micah 6:8 provides a clear and concise summary of what God expects from His followers. It calls us to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with our God. These principles are as relevant today as they were in ancient Israel. They offer a framework for living a life that honors God. They show His character.
Blessings,
Minister A. Francine Green
afrancinegreen.com 