8/7/2012
Micah 6
-The third section
of the book begins with the break marking word “Hear (Shema, Micah 6:1).” This begins the prophet’s indictment from the
LORD against His people (Micah 6:2). Reviewing the first two sections, Micah
had first given the LORD’s case against the capitals (Micah 1:1) and then the
leaders (Micah 3:1). God’s plea to them was sincere and practical. He had done
so much for them in bringing them out of slavery and oppression from Egypt and
had not wearied (to make tired, to wear out) them. He had purchased them as His
people and sovereignly protected their posterity. He only wanted them to
remember who He was and what great things He had accomplished in order to know
Him in the present and enjoy His righteous acts (Micah 6:5). *Application* How
quick are we to forget the over abundance and gracious acts of God in our own
lives? He is good; therefore, just like the children of Israel, it makes no
sense for us to turn to other idols and false gods in our affection and
devotion. We were made by Him to worship Him alone. Our souls are never truly
satisfied until we do. “There is a God-shaped
vacuum in the heart of every person, and it can never be filled by any
created thing. It can only be filled by God, made known through Jesus
Christ.” (Blaise Pascal) “Almighty God, in whom we live and move and have our
being, you have made us for Yourself, so that our hearts are restless until
they rest in You; grant us purity of heart and strength of purpose, that no
selfish passion may hinder us from knowing Your will, no weakness from doing
it; but that in Your light we may see light clearly, and in Your service find
our perfect freedom; through Jesus Christ our Lord.” (A prayer
from St. Augustine: 354-430 A.D.)
-The requirements for coming to the LORD are enunciated in
verses 6-8. God is NOT interested in the superficial and traditional religious activities
of bowing down, bringing burnt offerings of calves and rams, rivers of
presented oil, firstborn sacrifices, or the fruit of the body (asceticism)
(Micah 6:7). What the LORD does require is the genuine good of acting justly (fairness,
proper legality, no bribes, etc.), loving kindness (mercy, loyalty,
faithfulness, unity, solidarity, grace), and walking humbly (to live modestly,
carefully and cautiously, contrite spirit, NOT proud) with their God (Micah
6:8). *Application* There is perhaps no greater passage of Scripture in the Old
Testament for what God desires from His people than this verse in Micah 6:8. If
we can apply these three virtues in our lives we will be well on our way to
living a life that is pleasing unto our God.
-“The voice of the LORD will call to the city—and it is
sound wisdom to fear Your Name (Micah 6:9a).” *Application* The people had
forgotten their God and had gone astray in their in beliefs and actions through
disrespect. God calls out to us constantly for the purpose of drawing us to
close relationship and fellowship with Him. It would behoove us to draw near to
Him and remember all of His grace and goodness (Hebrews 4:16; 7:25; 10:22).
This is the respect and adoration He deserves and expects from His creation. Bow
your entire heart to Him and His ways with no further delay!
Verse to Memorize:
Micah 6:8
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