Simple Ways to Live Micah 6:8

Micah 6:8 exhorts believers to do justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God. This is an easy verse to quote and memorize, but it might be difficult in practice. If you find enacting this Scripture difficult, our tips may help.

What Does This Passage Actually Mean?

Commentators observe American Christians often approach Scripture with a “hermeneutic of privilege.” In other words, because they are Christians, they see themselves as the prophet Micah in this passage, showing others the way to live. We would do well, however, to see ourselves as the Israelites. Though God’s chosen people, the Israelites were sinful people who consistently failed to obey His word. They needed consistent reminders to walk humbly with Him, just as we do. Humility is a struggle even for Christians.

Part of humility, mercy, and justice involves seeing ourselves as human, not superior. We must acknowledge and repent of sins, and seek God’s help in turning from them for good. Additionally, we must listen to the people around us instead of condemning them or explaining why they’re living “wrong.” Many people are hurting and have rejected God out of their pain. Hearing their stories, comforting them, and standing up for them helps such people on the road back to God.

Love What God Loves

Living out Micah 6:8 involves loving who and what God loves. He clearly loves justice and mercy. Yet many believers turn a blind eye to injustice because they don’t know what to do about it. They assume that if they stand up, they will be maligned as hateful or intolerant. While there are hateful and bombastic ways to seek justice, God encourages us to do it in a peaceful way. He also cautions us not to confuse justice with vengeance.