The most succinct answer to this important question is in Micah 6:8, where the prophet records, “He has shown you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?”

The laws of God establish a perfect framework for distinguishing between good and evil, and teach us how to shape our actions accordingly. When we understand and apply these laws to our lives, we can begin to do justly.

The sacrifice of Christ was an expression of love toward us when we deserved death. When we understand that we could never deserve such a gift, we can begin to love mercy and extend it to others who likewise don’t deserve it.

God invites us to walk with Him to a future far brighter than any we could ever build for ourselves. When we understand the splendor, wisdom and might of the Creator of the universe compared to the imperfection of our frail human frames, we can begin to walk humbly with our God.

Besides Micah 6:8, there are a number of other scriptures that tell us how to please God. Hebrews 11:6 shows we need, and Romans 8:8-14 highlights our need to be led by God’s Holy Spirit. Consider also the love for God and our fellow man described in Deuteronomy 6:5; John 13:34-35; 1 John 5:3; and James 1:27.

All these facets may be easy to define, but they are difficult to master. They require a lifetime of dedication and continuous effort—but without them, we cannot please God. With them, we can be assured of hearing, when Jesus Christ returns, “Well done, good and faithful servant… Enter into the joy of your lord” (Matthew 25:21).