As I continue studying sacrifice, I continue to find evidence that sacrifice is not what God is looking for in me.
“6For I desire steadfast love and not sacrifice, the knowledge of God rather than burnt offerings.” – Hosea 6:6 (ESV)
Here God proclaims about the people of Israel and Judah that they spend more time with Him as opposed to ceremonies to Him. “God prefers real participation in the covenant on the part of his people, here expressed as ‘steadfast love’ and ‘knowledge of God’, to the polluted ceremonies of the northern kingdom that ignore these qualities (ESV Commentary).”
I do not have to parade around, displaying to all my religious undertakings. God does not want me to overtly appear to be giving to Him to make sure that all can see. God does not want the empty words from my mouth to fall on those around me.
The only sacrifice God wants of me, is to spend the time with Him, to get to know Him. God wants a relationship with me. God wants me to participate with Him in the growth and discipleship of those around me. I am commanded to simply obey Him and do His will and commune with Him each and every day.
What do you believe God wants from you? Do you wrap yourself up in ceremony to “please” God? Will you embrace that God wants you to participate in a relationship with Him?
Trevor's Thoughts 