Jesus also, that he might sanctify the people with his own blood, suffered outside the gate. Therefore, let us go forth to him outside the camp, bearing his reproach. For we have no continuing city here, but we seek one to come.
Select a thought to read by choosing a collection, the month, and then the day:
Late in Israel's history God's people, the Israelites, attempted to appease God with religious works instead of pleasing God with obedience. Instead of turning from immorality, they built more temples. But God has never wanted ceremonial works instead of obedience. The prophet Samuel rebuked King Saul for attempting to trade sacrifices for keeping God's commandment with these words, "Hath the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams" (I Sam. 15:22).
I have seen rebellious children of God become very religious in an attempt to make a deal with God and avoid doing His will. I have seen them spend hours and hours in prayer rather than do a simple thing that God told them to do. They were trying to cut a deal with God; they wanted to trade religious works for doing His will. But nothing takes the place of doing God's will.
When the disobedient pray instead of repenting, their prayer becomes an abomination (Prov. 28:9). These people think that by many words they can impress God, but Jesus said it doesn't work that way. He said, "But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do, for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking" (Matt. 6:7).
When God says to do a thing, just do it, and don't waste your time trying to offer Him a substitute for obedience. Don't try to make a deal with Jesus; just obey him.