Tuesday, December 30 | Mercy Over Sacrifice
Day 2: Mercy Over Sacrifice
Reading: Hosea 6:1-6
Devotional: "I desire mercy, not sacrifice"—words Jesus quoted twice to religious people who missed God's heart. God has never been impressed with external religious activity divorced from genuine relationship. The Pharisees offered sacrifices while harboring hatred. They kept Sabbath while lacking compassion. We can attend church, serve in ministries, and maintain spiritual disciplines while our hearts remain far from God. What God desires is not your perfect performance but your humble dependence on His mercy. He wants hearts softened by grace, not resumes padded with religious achievements. Examine your spiritual life today: Are you pursuing mercy—both receiving it and extending it—or merely going through religious motions? True worship flows from hearts overwhelmed by God's undeserved kindness.
Reading: Hosea 6:1-6
Devotional: "I desire mercy, not sacrifice"—words Jesus quoted twice to religious people who missed God's heart. God has never been impressed with external religious activity divorced from genuine relationship. The Pharisees offered sacrifices while harboring hatred. They kept Sabbath while lacking compassion. We can attend church, serve in ministries, and maintain spiritual disciplines while our hearts remain far from God. What God desires is not your perfect performance but your humble dependence on His mercy. He wants hearts softened by grace, not resumes padded with religious achievements. Examine your spiritual life today: Are you pursuing mercy—both receiving it and extending it—or merely going through religious motions? True worship flows from hearts overwhelmed by God's undeserved kindness.