The late Francis A. Schaeffer wrote a book entitled, How Should We Then Live? This ought to be of great concern to every professing Christian.
I have learned over time, most of the Bible is about how to live in this present life. I’ve often said, “I think we all can figure out how to live in Heaven, once we arrive in the Sweet By and By. It is the nasty now and now that concerns me most.”
Micah tells us, “He [God] hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?”~ Micah 6:8. Notice the one has to do with ourselves, the second with our brothers and sisters, the final one and most important, with our God!
Not only God Himself makes it known to us, but makes it plain. It is not open for debate, it is settled what the Lord requires of His children as we sojourn in this world. By saying, “O man,” He shows the rule is not only for the Jews but Gentiles, also.
These requirements are not ceremonial observances. They are not vain oblations, but much more. This trio of admonitions are more than all burnt offerings and sacrifices! To be a just person within (inward), to love showing mercy to others (outward), and to have a humble walk before our God (upward) is what God calls “The Good Life.”
Brother, which is more important for a pastor? Thee Sweet By and By messages or the Now and Now Brethern?