Hosea 6 - Day 747

Hosea 6 - Day 747 (link to reading)

Scripture: Hosea 6:6

Commentary (wernerbiblecommentary.org): Although the Mosaic law outlined an arrangement for sacrifices, the Israelites lost sight of their purpose and offered them in a ritualistic manner without the reverential spirit that should have been evident in abiding faithfulness to their God and love for fellow Israelites. YHWH had no need for sacrifices or whole burnt offerings. What he looked for was the manifestation of loyalty to him and genuine expressions of mercy or compassion. Knowledge of God should have been evident in attitudes, words, and actions that harmonized with his upright ways. It should have been the kind of recognition that was fully aware of being accountable to him and evident in praiseworthy conduct that brought honor to him.

Application: There are over 50 scriptural references that remind us that God desires our heart (obedience, loyalty, compassion, mercy, etc.) and not our sacrifice.  Any spouse would agree, that they would prefer a loving and trustworthy husband or wife rather than someone who sacrificially does things to earn "points."

Prayer: Lord, You alone I long to worship...