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Day Fifty-Six

Living Justly (Read Proverbs 21:1-15)

"Living well and beautifully and justly are all one thing." ~ Socrates

3 The Lord is more pleased when we do what is right and just
    then when we offer him sacrifices.

In ancient times, sacrifices were a central part of worship, a way for people to express their devotion to God. Yet, in Proverbs 21:3, we're reminded that God values something even more than these outward acts of worship: a life lived in righteousness, justice, and shalom (peace).

This verse teaches us that our actions—how we treat others and conduct ourselves—are of greater importance to God than ritual offerings. While sacrifices were necessary under the old covenant, they are never a substitute for living rightly. God desires our hearts to be aligned with His will, pursuing what is just, fair, and good in every aspect of our lives.

The message is clear: God is more pleased when we do what is right and just than when we go through the motions of religious duties (legalism), "emphasis added."

Religious legalism takes on many forms:

  • Judging progress

Evaluating spiritual progress based on whether or not someone follows prescribed rules, such as not watching certain movies, dancing, drinking, or gambling.

  • Defining godliness

Some Christians define true godliness by avoiding things like makeup, movies, drinking, or dancing as if these things have anything to do with their standing before God.

  • Adding rules

The most common form of legalism is adding rules to God's law and treating them as divine.

  • Obedience

Some legalists believe they can earn God's favor and salvation by obeying rules and regulations. If that's true, then why did Jesus have to die? 

  • Pressure

Legalism can lead to pressure and condemnation from others, which can disillusion and cynicize people and separate them from God further than they already are. 

We live by demonstrating true worship—making choices that honor God, uphold justice, and demonstrate love for others.

Consider how your actions reflect your faith as you go about your day. Are you making decisions that please God, not just in worship but in daily interactions? Remember, the most significant offering we can give the Lord is a life of righteousness, justice, and shalom (peace).

"Legalism is looking to something besides Jesus Christ (sacrifices), "emphasis added," to be acceptable and clean before God." ~ Timothy Keller

Religious rituals (legalism), "emphasis added," can suggest that you are trusting in God when the fact is that you are not trusting in Him. Turning one's will and life over to the care of God will transform a person to live a life of love and service. Our wisdom teaching reminds us that this gets down to the marrow inside the bones of our souls. God looks at the heart. Here is a question to ponder and to help assess your spiritual condition. Would there be enough evidence to convict you if charged with believing in God and living a Spirit-centered life?

Righteousness, justice, and shalom (peace) are the sacrifices that delight the heart of God.

May God bless your hearing, understanding, and application of today's wisdom.