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

Tuesday, June 1, 2021

[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

Comments

Archived Facebook Comments

Other Devotionals from Heartlight for Tuesday, June 1, 2021

Quotemeal
A daily dose of Christian quotes to inspire and encourage.
Quote by Patrick Morley:
"The turning point in our lives is when we stop seeking the God we want and start seeking the God who is."
God's Holy Fire
A daily devotional about the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives.
'Anointed with Holy Spirit Power' (Ac. 10:36-38)
"[Peter, to Cornelius and his relatives and friends:] "This is the message of Good News for the people of Israel — that there is peace with God through..."
Praying with Paul
Features the apostle Paul's writings turned into daily, powerful prayers.
'All-encompassing Compassion' (2 Co. 6:1-11)
"Dear Father, blessed bestower of grace, Let me work together with you to entreat people not to reject or ignore your offer of grace, or to accept it...."
Passion for Praise
A daily passage of Scripture emphasizing praise to our God.
'Our Fortress' (Ps. 46:11)
"The Lord of Heaven's Armies is here among us; the God of Israel is our fortress."

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.'"

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.

More What Jesus Did!