David makes what looks like contradictory statements in Psalm 51:15-19. On the one hand he writes, “O Lord, open my lips, and my mouth will declare Your praise. For You will not delight in sacrifice, or I would give it; You will not be pleased with a burnt offering. The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart, O God, You will not despise.”
It appears, at first glance, that animal sacrifices were unnecessary, even though God commanded them in Leviticus 1-6, but only the sacrifice of praise from a broken heart was.
Yet, David goes on to write, “Do good to Zion in Your good pleasure; build up the walls of Jerusalem; then will You delight in right sacrifices, in burnt offerings and whole burnt offerings; then bulls will be offered on Your altar.” Now God’s okay with sacrifices and burnt offerings. What’s going on?
God hates outward religion with no heart involvement! Going through the motions of making any sacrifice simply because it was the thing to do, wasn’t doing David or God any favors. David knew he needed his sins forgiven and religious acts in and of themselves couldn’t cover them. He needed his sins covered and praised God that He provided a way…sacrifice.
Simply put, going to church on Sunday is not earning you any brownie points with Jesus nor is going to weekly Bible studies; unless, you come recognizing that only Jesus can cover your past; and, come with a heart willing to be changed by the Spirit.
When you get sick and tired of playing church, you’re ready to become more like Jesus. Church services without Jesus have little value to either of you.
S“E”t Free Nowww