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“He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?”
In Micah 6:8, God calls His people to three specific commands—to act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with God. This verse appears in the context of Israel and Judah on the verge of God’s judgment and wrath. Thankfully the narrative continues and Micah goes on to prophesy God’s plan of redemption, love, and forgiveness. Still, God reminds us that mere recognition of His law falls short of the true mark of a Christian and that genuine faith will result in good deeds (James 2:17).
As Christians, we must submit our will and desires to God’s purposes and plan if we wish to follow the orders laid out in Micah 6:8. We understand that God’s judgment is truthful, proportionate, impartial, and direct. Therefore, we are required to humbly show mercy to and seek justice for anyone in need regardless of their social, economic, or racial status.
How does this play out in the everyday life of the Christian? Put simply, we should take personal responsibility for caring about lost souls through the work of evangelism and meeting the needs of the vulnerable without favoritism. In doing so, we glorify God by loving Him and keeping His commands.
