Why Do We Serve?

O. T. #2046  "Why Do We Serve?

Oct. 14, 2021

Hosea 6-Part 3

For I desire mercy and not sacrifice. And the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings. (verse 6)

LET IT GLOW

God continues to care for Israel, both the northern and southern kingdoms. We read about it in verse 4, as He asked what He shall do to them. He noted that their goodness (chesed, which means kindness, lovingkindness, goodness in Hebrew, for Him is like the early dew, sporadic, here and then gone.

Then in verse 6, mercy is that same word, chesed, in the Hebrew language.

Usually, chesed refers to God's love and faithfulness to the Israelites. Here it is used to refer to what should characterize a human posture toward God. A faithful God rightly expects faithfulness and loyalty from His people. Relationships work as they should only when both sides are committed to each other. God has been faithful to you and me, no question. How faithful and loyal have we been to Him?

LET IT GROW

No amount of activity for God will ever take the place of a heart that is right with Him. People have thought they could please God with their service and offerings regardless of their heart condition. God made it very clear that He will not be pacified by even the most generous offerings and zealous service if our hearts are not right with Him. (Micah 6:6-8)

So no matter how much we do in God's service, regardless of how active we are in our church, no matter how honorable our reputation in the Christian community, He will not overlook a sinful heart. His desire is that we devote ourselves to knowing Him and loving Him with all our hearts. (Blackaby)

Do you get the feeling that Israel prided themselves in being the special nation blessed by God? Do we tend to forget His mercy upon us sinners?

Many claim Jesus as Lord, but how many do what He says to do? (Luke 6:46) How many are alert to help others? witness? tithe? volunteer at the church? use their gifts and abilities in ministry? Many church members do; however, many more do not.

Paul thought he was doing right when he persecuted Christians until he met the Savior. His zealousness did not please God. Even if we have faith to move mountains, give all we have to feed the poor, offer our body to be burned for God, yet have a heart that is not right, it profits us nothing. Paul realized this as he wrote 1Corinthians 13:1-3.

So dear one, let us look at our motives for doing. Is it for the glory of God, they One we love? Or is it for our glory and recognition?

LET IT GROW

Change my heart, O God, make it ever true.

Change my heart, O God, may I be like You.

 

LET IT GO