What Jesus Did! 'Mercy?' — Matthew 12:7

Sunday, June 1, 2025

[Talking to the Pharisees, Jesus continued:] "But you would not have condemned my innocent disciples if you knew the meaning of this Scripture: 'I want you to show mercy, not offer sacrifices.'"
— Matthew 12:7 NLT

Key Thought

Legalism stresses rules and crushes people. Jesus' greatest condemnations were for those who adhered to rules and law-keeping constructs while ignoring the demands of the law that are close to the heart of God. Our goal as disciples is to be faithful to Jesus' commands and his intent. That's why having the Holy Spirit is such a blessing. He not only inspired the message and helps us in understanding it, but he also empowers us to do what Jesus desires. Of course, Jesus' consistent desire was - and is - to see people redeemed, not condemned.

Today's Prayer

Holy God, I know doing your will is essential. But help me understand your will with both my heart and my head. I don't want to just know your commands, but I want to also know you. I don't want to just be able to recite your demands, but I want to also reflect your character. You have been so gracious to me; give me the courage to be gracious to others. In the name of Jesus of Nazareth, I pray. Amen.

Related Scripture Readings

  • Hosea 6:6
  • Psalm 51:16-17
  • Matthew 23:23-24

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1 Related Resource by Heartlight

Give God Your Best and Don't Look Back
Article by David Smith
Give God your best gift; not sacrifice, but mercy! We are often tempted to focus on the gift that is costly, but not greatest, when often the greatest gift that is needed is mercy.

Illustration

Illustration of Matthew 12:7 NLT — [Talking to the Pharisees, Jesus continued:] "But you would not have condemned my innocent disciples if you knew the meaning of this Scripture: 'I want you to show mercy, not offer sacrifices.'"

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About This Devotional

What Jesus Did! is a series of one-year devotional guides through each gospel, using one short scripture passage each day and following the Gospel in sequential order. Each devotional consists of a scripture passage and a reflection and a prayer which open up the day's scripture and show how it challenges you to live for Jesus.

What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware and is available in book form.

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

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