"O man, the Lord has told you what is good and what He expects from you: to act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God" (Micah, ch. 6, v. 8*).
When I became a Christian, I was enthusiastic and wanted to please the Lord. I thought the only way to please Him was through deeds, so I got involved in various ministries in the church and the community I was part of. Unfortunately, my over-activity diminished my enthusiasm. I became tired and started feeling like I was failing as a Christian.
A considerable amount of time has passed since those early years when I was learning how to grow and share my faith. I am still excited about my love for God and continue to eagerly seek opportunities to share this love with others. However, I have learned that it is not the service itself that pleases God, but the way we do it. To please Him, I do not need to devote myself to all kinds of work if I do not do it wholeheartedly – but I should dedicate myself to God.
In Matthew, ch. 22, v. 37 – 39, Christ echoes the words of Micah, emphasizing the importance of loving God and our neighbor. Every life experience is an opportunity to humbly glorify the Lord by acting justly, loving others, and showing mercy and kindness.
Link to the original article: https://www.upperroom.org/devotionals/en-2024-05-30
* Bible quotes are from The Bible, new translation from the original languages © Bulgarian Bible Society 2013