In the journey of faith, one of the most profound questions new believers might encounter is: What does God require of us? This question can shape our understanding of spirituality, our relationship with God, and our interactions with the world. The prophet Micah, in a time of moral and spiritual questioning, provided a succinct yet profound answer: “He has shown you, O mortal, 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).
Understanding What Does God Require of Us?
The Bible presents God’s requirements not as burdensome demands, but as guides for a fulfilling and righteous life. These commands are rooted in love and designed to help us live in harmony with God and each other. By adhering to these principles, we not only honor God but also contribute to a just, compassionate, and humble society.
Act Justly
Justice is a central theme throughout the Bible. To act justly means to live in a way that is fair, equitable, and righteous. It involves standing up for the rights of the poor, the oppressed, and the marginalized. In the life of Jesus, we see countless examples of justice in action, from defending the woman caught in adultery to speaking against the exploitation by religious leaders.
For new believers, acting justly might start with small, everyday actions—being honest in dealings with others, standing up for someone being treated unfairly, or participating in community efforts to support the vulnerable. Justice begins with an awareness of the needs and struggles of those around us and a commitment to make a difference.
Love Mercy
Mercy is compassion or forgiveness shown towards someone whom it is within one’s power to punish or harm. In the biblical context, mercy reflects the heart of God Himself, who is “rich in mercy” (Ephesians 2:4). Jesus exemplified this mercy by healing the sick, forgiving sinners, and ultimately sacrificing Himself for our salvation.
Embracing mercy means forgiving those who have wronged us, offering help without expecting anything in return, and extending kindness to those who may not “deserve” it by human standards. For new believers, practicing mercy can transform relationships and break down barriers of bitterness and resentment.
Walk Humbly with God
To walk humbly with God is to recognize our dependence on Him and to submit to His guidance and will. It involves letting go of pride and self-sufficiency to embrace a life led by the Spirit. Humility in the Christian sense is not about self-degradation but acknowledging God’s rightful place in our lives.
Walking humbly affects every aspect of life, from how we view ourselves and others to how we make decisions. It means seeking God’s will in prayer, engaging with Scripture to understand His teachings, and listening for His guidance in everyday moments.
Integrating Justice, Mercy, and Humility into Daily Life
Living out these principles may seem daunting, but it starts with small steps. Integrating justice, mercy, and humility into daily life might involve volunteering time for a local charity, joining a Bible study group to deepen understanding of God’s Word, or simply practicing kindness and patience in interactions with others.
For new believers, it’s important to remember that this is a journey. There will be moments of failure and misunderstanding, but the heart of the journey is growth and transformation. God does not require perfection but a willing heart to learn and grow.
God’s requirements of acting justly, loving mercy, and walking humbly with Him are not just abstract ideals but practical guidelines for living. They are about building a life that reflects the heart of God, impacts those around us positively, and leads to deeper fulfillment and purpose.
As you continue on your spiritual journey, take time to reflect on these principles. Consider how you can incorporate justice, mercy, and humility into your daily life. Remember, in doing so, you are not only answering God’s call but also contributing to a better world.
