What God Wants

O people, the LORD has told you what is good, and this is what he requires of you: to do what is right, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God.

Micah 6:8

When you’re older, you may want to get a job. You’ll probably search the classified ads either in the newspaper or online. The ads will tell you things like what the job is, how much it pays, and how many hours a week you’ll work. It may have requirements, too. You may need to be over 18 years old and have a driver’s license. You might have to have some experience doing a similar job. You may need certain training or a college education. The employer knows that when an employee meets the requirements, the employee will be able to do the job well.

A verse in Micah gives God’s requirements for his people. He wants them to do what is right, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with him. These aren’t new instructions. Back in the time of Moses and Joshua, God said, “Now, Israel, what does the LORD your God require of you? He requires only that you fear the LORD your God, and live in a way that pleases him, and love him and serve him with all your heart and soul” (Deuteronomy 10:12).

How his people lived was always important to God. He wanted them to follow his laws, put him first, and treat one another fairly. Even though you don’t live in Old Testament times, God wants his princesses to do these same things today. If you love God with all of your heart, try to put him first in all you do, and live in a way that honors him, he will be pleased.

These verses can be your guide as you complete your schoolwork, do your chores, interact with friends and family members, attend church, and take part in sports activities or music lessons.

List the things Micah 6:8 or Deuteronomy 10:12 says God requires. Think of one way each of those things will impact your daily life. Example: “Serve him with all your heart and soul.” I can serve God by cheerfully helping my mom prepare dinner.