“The Lord detests the sacrifice of the wicked, but the prayer of the upright pleases him.”

Growing up, I was involved in a religion that taught many sacraments or religious duties. I worked really hard to do them all—and to do them perfectly. I never could. God gave the law to Moses so that the Jewish nation would never doubt their need for a Savior—someone to free them from the bondage of rules and laws they could never keep. This is not a knock on anyone’s denominational choice. It is simply to reinforce what Solomon tells us: our spirit on the inside is much more significant than our appearance on the outside. It is the condition of our heart above all else that blesses God. Even humans are ultimately impacted more by who we are than by how we act. Surely our actions can—and must—reflect the fruit of our life with Him, but that is the byproduct, not the source. Jesus made it clear that by being connected to Him, we would bear the powerful fruits the world longs for. It is very telling that Solomon specifically distinguishes between the self-serving sacrifices of the wicked and the simple prayers of His children. Conversation between us and Him is what His Son died to open up for us. Seize that, and enjoy Him as He enjoys you. What a great truth—that the God of the universe wants our attention and fellowship more than any act we could perform for Him. Today, have a chat. #BeTheEdge

“pray continually,” 1 Thessalonians‬ ‭5‬:‭17‬ ‭NIV‬‬