November 27, 2021
What does it say?
What is good, and what does the Lord require? To act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with God.
What does it mean?
The hearts of God’s people were so lost in sin that they had no idea how to rightly relate to Him or to each other. Their arrogance caused God to reject their sacrifices and offerings, blocking intimacy in the relationship. The Lord gave simple instructions: treat each other with fairness, respect, and compassion; be loyal to Him and to each other; and live each day with a genuine attitude of humility. He was asking for a transformation of character – to be more like Him. Until their hearts were right with God, they were just “going through the motions.”
How should I respond?
God’s expectations of His people have not changed. Christians should relate to each other in a Christ-like manner. As scriptural principles transform your thinking, you reflect the character of Christ more and more in your daily life. How have your actions and attitudes this week aligned with what God calls, “good”? Have you treated your family, neighbors, and fellow church members with compassion and fairness? Think and pray about whether you’re trying to please God with outward signs of religion and moral living instead of attitudes that reflect a transformed heart and mind. A right relationship with God requires genuine humility and godly character.