An Old Testament Practice


16 You do not delight in sacrifice, or I would bring it;
you do not take pleasure in burnt offerings. Psalm 51:16

This is an interesting verse in light of the Old Testament practice of offering grain and animal sacrifices to God. David would have known what it was all about, but in this verse it appears that he is discouraging the practice altogether, so what gives?

As we will see in the next verse, it’s an internal sacrifice that God requires. For instance, if you sacrificed all your wealth but still lived a godless, uncaring life, it wouldn’t be a sacrifice, but merely going through the motions (and an incredible waste). In this way, it is a profound verse because it cuts through the rituals and captures the intent of sacrifice.

Thank the Lord today that the system of sacrifice has, in fact, been done away with because of Christ’s work on the cross. The cross makes the difference because a perfect sacrifice was given to atone for our sins. Even as I typed that sentence, I don’t fully understand the implications of that sacrifice, but I will accept it.


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