Mid-Week Reflection: What does it mean to act “with God”?

Micah 6:8

Let’s put this verse in context. Micah is a prophet of the old testament who differs from the prophets Hosea or Amos because Micah is from a rural area, not from the city. While these prophets often criticize the highest places and people of power, Micah instead criticizes the entire city. Micah does not view one person or a group of individual people as the problem. Micah argues that corruption is ingrained within the entire society.

After the first section of the book, in which Micah lays on heavy judgement, the writing moves towards a message of hope. This verse is taken from an illustrative scene where God is literally on trial – a “divine lawsuit”, if you will. Chapter 6 is a somewhat confusing sequence because the speakers, those participating in the trail, keep changing from verse to verse. It is often interpreted that verse 8 is spoken by the prophet to the mortal people who are acting as “witnesses” in this trial. This verse summarizes the teachings of earlier prophets (Amos, Hosea, and Isaiah).

The demands made in verse 8 are calls to action. Words such as do, love, and walk are verbs. 

Do justice with your God
Love kindness with your God
Walk humbly with your God

As you reflect on this verse, consider: what does it mean to act “with God”?