What Does the Lord Require?

Key Text:

“He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good, and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?” - Micah 6:8

Introduction

Many people wonder, “What does God want from me?” Some believe it is about religious rituals, offerings, or sacrifices. But in Micah 6:8, God clearly reveals what He desires: justice, mercy, and humility.

This passage teaches us three key lessons about how we should live as followers of God:

1. Do Justly - Live with Integrity.
2. Love Mercy - Show Compassion to Others.
3. Walk Humbly - Submit to God.

1. Do Justly - Live with Integrity

• Justice means doing what is right and fair in all circumstances.
• God calls us to treat others honestly, fairly, and with righteousness.
• Proverbs 21:3 - “To do justice and judgment is more acceptable to the Lord than sacrifice.”
• Justice is not just about laws, it’s about how we treat others daily—our families, coworkers, and those in need.

2. Love Mercy - Show Compassion to Others

• Mercy means forgiving and helping others, even when they don’t deserve it.
• Loving mercy means we delight in showing kindness and grace.
• Luke 6:36 - “Be ye therefore merciful, as your Father also is merciful.”
• Just as God has shown us mercy, we must extend mercy to others.

3. Walk Humbly - Submit to God

• To walk humbly means to live in dependence on God, not in pride or self-sufficiency.
• James 4:6 - “God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.”
• Humility is acknowledging that we need God in every area of life.
• It’s not just about outward actions but having a heart that seeks God’s will.

Conclusion

God is not impressed by outward religious acts, He desires a transformed heart that seeks justice, loves mercy, and walks humbly with Him.

Reflection Questions:

• Are you living justly in your daily interactions?
• Do you show mercy and forgiveness as God has shown you?
• Are you walking humbly with God, surrendering to His will?

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father, help us to live justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with You. Transform our hearts so that we reflect Your character in all we do. In Jesus’ name, Amen.