What God Requires!

“Now, O Israel, what does the LORD your God ask of you but to fear the LORD your God by walking in all His ways, to love Him, to serve the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul. And to keep the commandments and statutes of the LORD that I am giving you this day for your good.” Deuteronomy 10:12-13

A young man survived a horrendous car crash, and while he was sharing his testimony, he stated, “I know God spared me for a purpose, but I don’t know what it is.” We all want to know what it is that God wants to do in and through our lives. Believers often say they want to know God’s will and want to know what God requires. Often, this relates to personal decisions such as accepting a job offer, choosing where to live, or deciding whom to marry.

Near the end of Moses’ life, he placed personal decisions in a broader framework by explaining some basic things God desires from every believer. He told the people that they were to “Fear the Lord,” which means to daily give Him the respect and honor He deserves and never take Him for granted. They were to “walk in all His ways” by letting His Word guide them and love Him.

In Matthew 22:37, Jesus declared, “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.” To “love Him” means to obey Him and fellowship with Him in prayer and worship. To “serve the Lord” describes gladly using your gifts and abilities in ways that advance the gospel. God seeks lovers; He is looking out for men and women who are ready to follow and do His will at all times.

Serving God with all your heart is undoubtedly rewarding, and He is always ready to grow people who are ready for Him. As we focus on what He requires, our relationship with God will grow. As a result, His will for our lives will become clearer, and we will fulfill that purpose He has created us. Micah 6:8 says, “He has told you, as a human being what is good; And what does the LORD require of you but to do justice, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?

Prayer:
Father, forgive me for being too focused on me instead of on You, help me not to compromise your will, Lord.