FOUNDATIONAL GUIDANCE, PART 1
by Pastor Richard Tow
March 6, 2016
Text: Micah 6:8

View PDF for this sermon (opens in a new window)

Description: This sermon examines Micah 6:8, a revelation that guides the course of our lives and helps us put every decision in perspective. Here God tells us what He wants us to do. It’s something we do regardless of any circumstantial changes. It undergirds every decision and brings stability in our lives.

 

View PDF for this sermon (opens in a new window)

OUTLINE

Intro

(1)   What does God want you to do?

(2)   Foundational Guidance that keeps other decisions in perspective

(3)   Text: Mic 6:8 “He has shown you, O man, what is good; And what does the LORD require of you But to do justly, To love mercy, And to walk humbly with
your God?”

I. CONTEXT of the statement

(1)   To Israel when nation not walking close to God (Micah 6:1-8)
Micah lived about 750 to 686 BC (contemporary of Isaiah)

(2)   Substituting Religious activity for sincere obedience (Micah 6:6-7)
Saul in 1 Sam. 15:22
Isaiah 1:10-20
Tendency throughout history of man

II. CONTENT of the statement

(1)  “…to do justly….”
Do what’s right even when costs you (Ps 15:4)
Don’t take advantage of vulnerable
Be fair in all your dealings (Micah 6:9-12)
Justice is prominent characteristic of God and godly

(2)   “to love mercy….”
Better we know God & ourselves, more we appreciate mercy
Woman caught in adultery (Jn 8:7)
With what judgement you judge, you will be judged (Matt. 7:1-5)
Story of Brazilian mother

(3)   “…to walk humbly with your God.”
No sin separates like sin of pride (C. S. Lewis quote)
1 Pet. 5:5-6 humble yourselves
Reward is closer walk with God (Isa. 57:15)

III. CAPACITY of the statement (to bring stability in our lives)

(1)   This is what I do regardless of what happens!

(2)   No one can stop me from doing this except me.

(3)   Get this decision firmly established in your heart.

 

QUESTIONS

1. Do you think a decision to live according to Micah 6:8 brings stability in your life? Why or why not?

2. In practice, what does doing justly mean to you? What kind of behavior does it produce?

3. In practice, what does loving mercy (kindness) mean? What kind of actions does it produce?

4. What are some of the practical applications of walking humbly with God? How does that affect the way we relate to people?

5. Have you made a decision to live according to Micah 6:8 whatever happens?