Micah 6:1-16
The 3rd section of the book opens with a new call to listen (Micah 1:2; Micah 3:1). Let us also listen attentively to what the sovereign God says and to what He requires; universal obedience is due to Him. Is He satisfied with religious rites? In no way! "What doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God" (v. 8). This programme has not changed since the days of Moses (read Deuteronomy 10:12). It is simple and contains nothing startling! Moreover it amounts to nothing less than to walk "in a manner worthy of God". He is Light: let us practise righteousness; He is Love: let us practise kindness.
"Wherein have I wearied thee? testify against me," asks the LORD in v. 3 (cf. Isaiah 43:22). Searching question! From Egypt onwards, all God’s ways concerning His own have been nothing but grace. Has anything been lacking on His part towards them or towards us? No; we must recognise this: the cause of our decline is always in us, never in Him.
"Hear ye the rod . . .," advises the LORD in v. 9. Yes, this rod speaks; it has a voice for our conscience. Let us learn to heed it! The Lord wants only our blessing (Revelation 3:19).