God gave his people a set of rules to live by. Ultimately, these rules were for their benefit. But instead of these rules leading to godly living, it led to a cycle of:

sin-punishment-repentance-forgiveness-restoration-repeat.

It was a vicious cycle.

Finally, God said in his frustration through the prophet Micah, “Listen, I don’t want Your burnt offerings. I don’t want your rivers of oil. I’m not asking you to sacrifice your first born. I just want you to do what is right, love mercy, and walk with me.”

And the people’s response? More rules. More laws. More sin.

So God sent His first-born Son as a sacrifice –

To once and for all be an atonement for every law we would ever break.
To demonstrate absolute mercy.
To remove any barriers that prevents us from walking humbly with Him.

Christ fulfilled all the requirements, including Micah 6:8.
And our response to such an incredible gift?

Do justly knowing we are the righteousness of God in Christ Jesus. (II Corinthians 5:21)

Love mercy and grace because it’s only by His mercy and grace are we saved. (Ephesians 2:4&5)

Walk humbly with God knowing the veil has been torn and nothing prevents us from boldly entering His throne of grace. (Hebrews 4:16)

Hallelujah all requirements have been satisfied!
Hallelujah Christ’s finished work was more than sufficient!
Hallelujah my only job is to believe!

This morning I’m resting in knowing my salvation is secured. The cycle of sin has been broken. And with the help of the Holy Spirit, I’m responding to this great gift by doing justly, loving mercy, and walking humbly with my God. Will you join me?