“For I desire steadfast love and not sacrifice, the knowledge of God rather than burnt offerings.”
– Hosea 6:6
Main Thought: This was spoken to the nation of Israel during a time when they were rebellious against God and His commandments, approximately 2,400 years ago, but it is a verse that has great application for instruction to believers today. Israel still had the outward signs of religious worship and service during this time, but in reality, they had lost sight of what real love and real knowledge of God entailed. To them, it was enough to have the outward forms of religion and head knowledge of God without an inward change of heart or love for God. They thought that their sacrifices and outward obedience were substitutes for heartfelt, steadfast love for God. God very clearly gives them a message here that mere outward obedience is not what He desires. The Pharisees in Jesus’ day illustrated this, being outwardly righteous in the eyes of the culture, but as Jesus said looking like white, beautiful tombs but inwardly being full of corruption and death (Matt. 23:27). If we are only outwardly righteous, “having the appearance of godliness, but denying its power” (2 Tim. 3:5), then it is highly likely we do not have the Spirit of God and salvation. This calls us to examine ourselves in the light of Scripture, understanding what God desires. It does not matter how other religious figures or friends may evaluate us regarding where we stand with God, but it only matters what God says. We have this said here very clearly by God and in many other places in Scripture, that He desires an inward change of heart and love for Him. Let us all ponder these words of our Lord and make sure we have ‘steadfast love’ for Christ.
David Webber
David Webber is married to Mary with four children and four grandchildren, and serves as the Pastor of Faith Baptist Church in Longview, TX. He obtained a BS in History from the University of Texas at Tyler, TX, and pursued studies at Baptist Missionary Association Theological Seminary in Jacksonville, TX. Throughout his ministry, he has been an invited preacher and educator in numerous churches and various Bible conferences. Surrendering to the gospel ministry’s calling in 1972 at the age of 16, he received preaching licensure from Little Flock Baptist Church in Longview, Texas, in 1974. Graduating with a Bachelor of Science Degree in History from the University of Texas at Tyler in 1978, he was ordained in December of 1980 by Faith Baptist Church. Following this, he contributed his services to Faith Baptist in Longview and subsequently engaged with Grace Baptist Church in Tyler, Texas, where he instructed Sunday School and delivered sermons as needed. In February of 1994, Faith Baptist invited him to lead as their pastor, a role he has faithfully held to the present day. David writes a blog for the church website and is a writer for The Art of Worship.
More from David Webber
Psalm 29:2
“Ascribe to the LORD the glory due His name; worship the LORD in the splendor of holiness.” – Psalm 29:2
Hebrews 10:14
“For by a single offering He has perfected for all time those who are being sanctified.” – Hebrews 10:14
Isaiah 25:8-9
“He will swallow up death forever; and the Lord God will wipe away tears from all faces, and the reproach of the people he will take away from all the earth, for the LORD has spoken. It will be said on that day, Behold, this is our God; we have waited for him, that he might save us. This is the LORD; we have waited for him; let us be glad and rejoice in his salvation.” – Isaiah 25:8-9
2 Corinthians 1:22
“… and who has also put his seal on us and given us his Spirit in our hearts as a guarantee.” – 2 Corinthians 1:22
1 Corinthians 10:31
“So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” – 1 Corinthians 10:31
Romans 16:20a
“The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet.” – Romans 16:20a
Psalm 30:4-5
“Sing praises to the LORD, O you his saints, and give thanks to his holy name. For his anger is but for a moment, and his favor is for a lifetime. Weeping may tarry for the night, but joy comes with the morning.” – Psalm 30:4-5
Psalm 4:7
“You have put more joy in my heart than they have when their grain and wine abound.” – Psalm 4:7
Mark 15:37-38
“And Jesus uttered a loud cry and breathed his last. And the curtain of the temple was torn in two, from top to bottom.” – Mark 15:37-38
1 Peter 1:13
“Therefore, preparing your minds for action, and being sober-minded, set your hope fully on the grace that will be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ.” – 1 Peter 1:13