A Simple Guide to Pleasing God

May 25, 2019 by  
Filed under Daily Devotions, Personal Growth

By James H. Pence –

If you had to tell someone (in as few words as possible) how they could live a life pleasing to God, what would you say? I’m not talking about how to become a Christian; rather, I have in mind a brief summary of the Christian life.

You can find many possible answers in Scripture, but one of the best short summaries of God’s expectations for our lives can be found in the book of Micah, chapter 6. In that chapter Micah asks a simple question, “What does the Lord require of you?”

His answer is equally concise. “To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God” (Micah 6:8b NIV).

This verse breaks down the Christian life into three simple areas. Micah tells us first of all that we are to act justly. In other words, all of our dealings with others should be just. We’re to be mindful to do the right thing, no matter what situation we face.

Second, he encourages us to love mercy—be a people characterized by a love of mercy and kindness. Daily we can demonstrate compassion and be ready to show grace to those around us.

Finally he instructs us to walk humbly with our God. There’s no place for arrogance, pride, or selfishness. Also, our walk must not be solitary. We do not live alone in this Christian life. Our life is always conducted “coram deo” before the face of our God. A constant awareness of God’s presence in our lives will keep us mindful of how to conduct ourselves.

Sometimes we make the Christian life much more complicated than it needs to be. We get so caught up in the busyness and challenges of life that we forget that God expects us to act justly toward others, to always show mercy, and to walk humbly with Him. As you walk with Him through 2011, let it be your goal to live a simple Christian life.

PRAYER: Lord, please don’t let me become overwhelmed by the complexities of life. Grant that I might walk every day in the simple Christian life—acting justly, loving mercy, and walking humbly with You.

“And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God” (Micah 6:8b).

Today’s devotion is by James H. Pence. James is an author, speaker, singer, and gospel chalk artist, but prefers to be known as a storyteller. To learn more about James and how he draws the stories of your heart, visit his Web site at: www.jamespence.com.

About James Pence

  • Advertisement

Comments

One Response to “A Simple Guide to Pleasing God”
  1. Carin LeRoy says:

    I love that verse! You’re right. We can sometimes make things so complicated, but God breaks it down so simply. Thanks for sharing.

Speak Your Mind

Tell us what you're thinking...
and oh, if you want a pic to show with your comment, go get a gravatar!


Prove You\'re Human: *