Scripture: Mark 7:8
You have let go of the commands of God and are holding on to the traditions of men.
Observation: Jesus is speaking to the Pharisees and other teachers of the law here, explaining that they may be following traditional custom and guidelines, yet these traditions often conflict with the commands of God.
Throughout the gospels we read of times where the Pharisees watch and wait, hoping to catch Jesus in a contradiction and breaking the law. In each of these circumstances that Jesus breaks with tradition, however, it is for reasons that comply with God’s commands.
Application: It is easy to spot the Pharisees mistakes when reading the Bible. But I wonder how often I try to follow what I believe is the letter of the law without grasping the spirit of His law. How often to I put the ritual before the practice and heart actions?
Prayer: Lord, please show me my errors and guide me in changing them. I want to truly follow you with all my heart and all my soul and all my understanding. I don’t want to go through empty motions. If there are some motions or traditions I need to change, please make it clear to me.
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