True North Counseling Ministries

What God Actually Requires:

“He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?” - Micah 6:8

It is easy to overcomplicate faith. We can turn it into a long list of goals, appearances, routines, opinions, disciplines, and outward markers that make us feel like we are doing the right things. But Micah 6:8 brings us back to something clear and grounding. God is not vague about what matters. He says to do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with Him.

This is not a shallow or simple calling. It reaches into the way we treat people, the way we make decisions, the way we respond when we are wronged, the way we use influence, the way we handle success, and the way we carry ourselves when no one is watching.

To do justice means we do not only care about what benefits us. We care about what is right. We do not excuse dishonesty because it gives us an advantage. We do not ignore people because they are inconvenient. We do not use strength, status, money, or position to serve ourselves at the expense of others. Justice is not only something we talk about when the issue is large or public. It shows up in ordinary decisions. It shows up in honesty, fairness, responsibility, and the willingness to do what is right even when it costs more.

To love kindness means kindness is not treated like a personality trait we use when we feel like it. It becomes something we value, pursue, and practice. It means we do not confuse strength with harshness. We do not confuse truth with cruelty. A person walking with God should become harder to corrupt, but softer in the way they love people. Kindness does not mean weakness. It means our strength is submitted to God, and our words, actions, and attitudes are shaped by mercy instead of pride.

To walk humbly with God means we stop living like we are the center of everything. Humility keeps us teachable. It reminds us that every gift, opportunity, ability, and breath comes from Him. It keeps us from chasing recognition more than obedience. It keeps us from pretending we have everything figured out. Walking humbly means we stay close to God in the ordinary steps of life, not just when we need something from Him. It is daily dependence, daily surrender, and daily alignment with His ways.

This week, do not reduce faith to what people can see. Ask whether your life is becoming more just, more kind, and more humble before God. Not louder. Not more impressive. Not more religious on the outside while unchanged within. The life God calls us to is not complicated, but it is deeply challenging. Do what is right. Love mercy. Walk closely and humbly with Him.

Prayer: Lord, help me live the kind of faith that honors You in ordinary moments. Teach me to do what is right, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with You each day. Keep my heart from pride, selfishness, and empty appearances, and shape my life into one that reflects Your truth, mercy, and character. Amen.

WHAT A GODWINK!

History was made when Golden Tempo won the Kentucky Derby as he would make Cherie DeVaux the first woman to train the winner. But there's more!!!!

Golden Tempo’s victory feels like more than just a race...it echoes a deeper spiritual truth. Coming from dead last to first is a reminder that God often works in ways we don’t expect, lifting up what seems behind and turning it into something victorious.

Golden Tempo even has a cross on his head, a striking symbol that many would see as a reminder of faith right in the middle of the moment.

Before the race, Jockey José Ortiz shared “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me” (Philippians 4:13)

The horse was last but galloped to the lead. It's a reminder of another scripture “So the last shall be first, and the first last” (Matthew 20:16).

Sometimes in life, we feel like we’re falling behind, overlooked, or stuck in last place. But moments like this remind us the story isn’t over. With faith and endurance, what looks like defeat can turn into triumph.
Nothing is impossible with God!

Courage in God's Presence:
Deuteronomy 31:6

"Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the Lord your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you."

This verse is part of Moses’ final words to the Israelites before they enter the Promised Land. In Deuteronomy 31, Moses is 120 years old and is preparing to pass leadership to Joshua, as he will not enter the land himself. Moses encourages the people to trust in God’s faithfulness as they face the challenges of conquering the land.

In Deuteronomy 31:6, we find a message of courage rooted in God’s faithfulness. The Israelites were about to face daunting battles and unfamiliar challenges. It would be easy to give in to fear or feel abandoned in the face of difficulty. But Moses points them to a truth greater than their circumstances: God will go with them.

God doesn’t command us to be strong and courageous without providing the foundation for that strength and courage. The Israelites’ fear wasn’t misplaced—they were about to face real enemies with real power. But God’s message to them was clear: "Do not fear, for it is the Lord your God who goes with you." Their confidence wasn’t to be in the absence of danger, but in the presence of God.

We often face our own "Promised Land" moments—transitions, uncertainties, or fears about the future. Maybe it’s a change in job, family dynamics, health issues, or a new challenge. Like the Israelites, we might feel unequipped or anxious, uncertain about the road ahead. But God’s words through Moses resonate today just as they did then: “Do not fear... for the Lord your God goes with you.”

Prayer for the Week

Lord, thank You for the promise of Your presence. When I face challenges and fear, remind me that I can be strong and courageous because You go before me. Help me to trust in Your unfailing love and power, knowing that You will never leave or forsake me. Amen.