Micah 6:8

Micah 6:8 (ESV):  “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?”

God isn’t interested in a more religious version of you. He desires a deeper relationship—one that manifests itself in greater obedience, mercy and kindness toward others, and true humility. He wants your heart.

The people of Israel were missing the mark when it came to God’s expectations for them. Through Micah, the Lord reveals that they wanted to offer better burnt offerings and greater sacrifices. But God had no interest in these things. They were an abomination to Him if they were not matched with genuine repentance. What He desired was for His people to do justice, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with their God. He is making it clear that what He wants above all is a pure heart centered on Him.

In your mind, what is God most pleased with in your life? I can tell you with certainty—it isn’t your religious duties. He is most pleased when your heart is fully surrendered to Him. That is how we live out His desire found in Micah 6:8. Before you attempt to please God with your actions, you must first please Him with your heart, for from it flow the justice, kindness, and humility that delight Him. Center your heart on Him.

Father, we thank You that You desire a relationship with us. How incredible it is that You want our heart above all else. We surrender to You now. Mold us and make us into the image of Your Son, with whom You are well pleased. We pray this in Jesus’ name, Amen.