A BIG THREE
He has showed you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God. (Micah 6:8, NIV)
Throughout Scripture God gives instruction on how we are to live our lives. Psalms teaches us how to praise, Proverbs is filled with practical knowledge, and throughout Paul's letters we learn about marriage, giving, serving, loving others, praying, and personal conduct.
At times I read the Scriptures by glancing over the words while missing the heart of the message God is communicating. Recently, however, I found myself meditating on Micah 6:8, desiring to grasp what it means for me personally.
The beginning of this verse says that God has shown us what is good, what He requires of us. Often I pray, "Lord, show me what to do, lead me." Although God wants us to ask for His help, He has already given much of what we need to know in His Word. Our task is to understand it and then live it out.
The second half of this scripture is God's instruction--to act justly, to love mercy, to walk humbly with your God. How do we "live out" these three actions?
To act justly means to be fair, to treat people equally, and to oppress no one. If you're a salesperson, treat each customer the same regardless of the purchase. Be honest in your relationships. Do what is right even if it is uncomfortable. As a parent you may give your children different boundaries depending on age and personality, but treat them with the same love, care, and discipline.
The Message describes "to love mercy" as being compassionate and loyal in your love. Showing mercy is challenging. Personally, I struggle with being critical and judgmental--especially to those I love the most. Is there a person in your life that needs your forgiveness? Take the step and give it. When you see a person in need, lend a hand. When you say, "I will pray," do it immediately. Believe the best in your spouse, family, and friends even if it doesn't feel good.
Walking humbly with God occurs when we stay in constant connection with Him and "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind," and "Love your neighbor as yourself" (Matthew 22:37-39). We need to take ourselves less seriously and follow God without complaining. If you're married, try to out serve your spouse. At work, find a way to encourage your co-workers. Talk less about yourself and ask more questions.
The Lord has shown how He wants us to live and what He is looking for from us. He isn't expecting perfection; He isn't asking that we have it all figured now. Take a few action steps today to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly.
