Proverbs 15:8

Lots of people tend to fool themselves into thinking that they are pleasing the Lord simply by displaying some outward religious tasks like going to church or wearing a cross around their neck. The list is extensive concerning things people “sacrifice for God.” But sacrifice doesn’t mean anything unless your heart is turned to God. A heart that is turned to God is one that God delights in because there is a relationship of love that is established. A love that motivates a person to bless, not prove the relationship.

Jesus in Matthew 15, with the religious in mind, quotes Isaiah the prophet, saying “These people draw near to Me with their mouth, and honor Me with their lips, but their heart is far from Me. And in vain they worship Me, teaching as doctrines the commandments of men.”

The Lord desires us to know Him and love Him and as a result of the relationship we have, our good deeds follow. However, the wicked who sometimes even appear to be very religious, work hard at trying to “look good” due to following certain rules, but their heart is far from God and they deceive themselves.

It always comes back to the heart with God. Make sure your heart is right with Him before you go about today’s activities.

Pastor Jason Witt