Today’s Reading: Psalm 50:5-15

“for every animal of the forest is Mine, the cattle on a thousand hills.”

 

Psalm 50:10

Reflection

God desires our hearts. He speaks to His people who continue to offer sacrifices according the Law, but have turned the act into a meaningless ritual. God reminds the people that He has no need for their animal sacrifices, for every creature belongs to Him. Sacrificial offerings are a way that God allows His people to express their love and obedience to Him. God looks at the intentions behind each sacrifice that is offered. He looks for hearts that are moved towards Him and lives that are entrusted to Him completely. For then and only then do sacrifices have true meaning and purpose. Thank offerings become a symbol of gratitude and guilt offerings show true repentance.

God owns the cattle on a thousand hills. He knows every creature that roams the earth. He owns all of creation. But He waits for us to freely surrender our hearts to Him.

Reflection Questions:

– According to the Bible reading, why was God unhappy about the animal sacrifices people were making to Him? What was lacking in their sacrifices?

– What made a sacrifice pleasing to God?

– Today, we no longer offer animal sacrifices to God. What are ways that we show thankfulness to God or show Him our repentance from sin?

Prayer

Lord God, every blessing I receive comes from You. You own the universe and everything in it. Thank You for all You provide. I pray that You show me how to live in gratitude for all that You’ve done for me. Help me to live a life surrendered to Your Will. I want to give You the glory You deserve Lord. I pray all of these things in Jesus’ Holy Name, AMEN.

Thru the Bible in a year (credit: Biblestudytools.com): Acts 27:1-12; 1 Samuel 2:11-36; Psalm 50