Background on the Book of Micah

The book of Micah is part of the Old Testament and belongs to the minor prophets. It was written by a prophet hailing from the kingdom of Judah and deals with issues such as justice and fairness in government, family relationships, poverty, worship practices and more. In this context, Micah 6:1-8 serves as an important reminder of God’s expectations for his followers and how they should live their lives.

Micah 6:1-8 King James Version

Micah 6:1-8 KJV  Hear ye now what the LORD saith; Arise, contend thou before the mountains, and let the hills hear thy voice.  (2)  Hear ye, O mountains, the LORD’S controversy, and ye strong foundations of the earth: for the LORD hath a controversy with his people, and he will plead with Israel.  (3)  O my people, what have I done unto thee? and wherein have I wearied thee? testify against me.  (4)  For I brought thee up out of the land of Egypt, and redeemed thee out of the house of servants; and I sent before thee Moses, Aaron, and Miriam.  (5)  O my people, remember now what Balak king of Moab consulted, and what Balaam the son of Beor answered him from Shittim unto Gilgal; that ye may know the righteousness of the LORD.  (6)  Wherewith shall I come before the LORD, and bow myself before the high God? shall I come before him with burnt offerings, with calves of a year old?  (7)  Will the LORD be pleased with thousands of rams, or with ten thousands of rivers of oil? shall I give my firstborn for my transgression, the fruit of my body for the sin of my soul?  (8)  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?

Commentary on Micah 6:1-8

In verse 1, God calls out to us to “Hear now what the LORD says…” Here, God is reminding us of His presence in our lives and that we should be mindful of His will when making decisions. We must listen carefully and pay attention so that we can take heed of what He is saying.

Verse 2 continues by asking “Shall I come before Him with burnt offering?” Through this question, God teaches us that material possessions such as burnt offerings can’t bring Him true joy or pleasure; it is our hearts and actions that matter most.

God then reveals His perfect plan for us in verse 3, saying “He has showed you o man what is good; And what does the LORD require of you but do justly, and love mercy and walk humbly with your God?” This call explains that by doing justice (against injustice), loving mercy (for ourselves and others) and walking humbly with Him (being aware of His presence), we are honoring God with our lives.

The following verses further emphasize this point by recounting various offerings people have made while seeking favors from God – such as thousands of rams or rivers of oil – only for the Lord to respond emphatically each time saying these are not sufficient enough to earn His favor or blessings. All He needs from us is an obedient heart (verse 8).

What Is the Spiritual Meaning Of This Passage For Believers Today?

By understanding what Micah 6:1-8 teaches us about justice, mercy, humility and obedience to God, we learn how we can honor him through our actions in everyday life. Moreover, it serves as a reminder that material objects do not bring contentment nor provide fulfillment – instead it is through living faithfully according to his commands that brings true joy.

Practical Ways To Walk Humbly With God Everyday

There are countless ways one can walk humbly with God every day – here are some practical examples:

• Invest time in prayer – make sure you have quality time spent talking directly to God every day
• Read Scripture – commit verses to memory so you may refer back them during difficult times for spiritual guidance
• Practice consistent worship – attend church services regularly or even participate in online gatherings if those are more accessible for you
• Do acts of kindness – practice random acts like spreading compliments or helping someone without being asked
• Pray without ceasing – make it a habit to talk to Him throughout your daily activities like while commuting or doing chores
• Speak words of faith – when facing insurmountable odds speak confidently in faith against negative fears arising within you

These are just some helpful tips on how to keep your relationship with Him strong! ​

Closing Prayer

Lord Almighty, thank You for Your generous grace consisting always upon me! I am especially grateful for all the ways You hold me accountable according to Your divine plan which I’ve been reminded through studying this passage today! May I allow my life please You as I obey Your will each step at a time through justice, mercy & humility! Amen

Sources

• Book of Micah Overview
• What Does the Bible Say About Justice?
• Bible Verses On Humility
• The Importance Of Worshiping God
• Micah 6:1-8 Sunday School Lesson