Much has been said about knowing God’s purpose for our lives. Indeed, we should seek His purpose for each of us, and live our lives with purpose and on purpose. Having said that, have you considered what the Lord requires of you and of me?
First, let me say that the Lord is essentially concerned with the ethical, not with externals. “Blessed are the pure in heart; for they shall see God” (Matt. 5:8). In chapter six of the book of Micah, we are told what the Lord requires of His people. In verses 1-5, we find the Lord’s case, His controversy, with His people, Israel. How they have turned from Him. In verses 6-7, there is a listing of the external measures that one might employ in his/her feeble attempt to circumvent God’s way. God had shown to His people then, as He has shown to His people now, what He requires of us. Here they are:
(1) “To do justly”. Just do right! “Righteousness exalteth a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people” (Proverbs 14:34). “But in every nation he that feareth Him, and worketh righteousness, is accepted with Him” (Acts 10:35)
(2) “To love mercy” Love kindness and mercy! “Let not mercy and truth forsake thee; bind them about thy neck; write them upon the table of thine heart” (Proverbs 3:3). “Blessed are the merciful; for they shall obtain mercy” (Matt. 5:7).
(3) “Walk humbly with God.” “Can two walk together, except they be agreed” (Amos 3:3)? “If ye walk in my statutes, and keep my commandments, and do them.” They will receive the blessings of verses 4-12 (Leviticus 26:3-12).
Be blessed as you do what is right, love mercy and walk humbly with the God of the universe.
Pastor J. Amos Jones
