Micah 6:1–8

The Lord’s Lawsuit against His People

¹Now listen to what the Lord is saying, 

“Stand up! Plead your case in front of the mountains, 

and let the hills listen to your request. 

²Listen to the Lord’s lawsuit, you mountains. 

Listen, you strong foundations of the earth. 

The Lord has filed a lawsuit against his people. 

He is arguing his case against Israel. 

³“My people, what have I done to you? 

How have I tried your patience? Answer me! 

⁴I brought you out of Egypt and freed you from slavery. 

I sent Moses, Aaron, and Miriam to lead you. 

⁵My people, remember what King Balak of Moab planned ⸤to do to you⸥ 

and how Balaam, son of Beor, responded to him. 

Remember ⸤your journey⸥ from Shittim to Gilgal 

so that you may know the victories of the Lord.” 

⁶What should I bring when I come into the Lord’s presence, 

when I bow in front of the God of heaven? 

Should I bring him year-old calves as burnt offerings? 

⁷Will the Lord be pleased with thousands of rams 

or with endless streams of olive oil? 

Should I give him my firstborn child because of my rebellious acts? 

Should I give him my young child for my sin? 

⁸You mortals, the Lord has told you what is good. 

This is what the Lord requires from you: 

to do what is right, 

to love mercy, 

and to live humbly with your God.