Journey With Jesus 365Sample

The Pharisees were correct in practicing tithing, but their sin was neglecting the weightier matters of the law: justice, mercy, and faith. They showed no justice or righteous judgment, as demonstrated by their unjust accusations against Christ, their bribing of Judas, and the hiring of false witnesses to lie about Jesus. They lacked mercy in their treatment of tax collectors, prostitutes, and Samaritans, whom they refused to accept. Additionally, they showed no faith in Christ as the Messiah, despite the overwhelming evidence of His deity being fulfilled right before their eyes.

While tithing is appropriate, it cannot save a person from hell. The Pharisees were not wrong to pay attention to small religious practices, but they were blind to the more significant issues of justice, mercy, and faith. They strained out minor details but allowed sin to pass through unchecked. Any religious system that focuses heavily on minor rituals while neglecting repentance and true faith in Christ is spiritually blind. In God's eyes, all human righteousness without genuine repentance and faith in Christ is meaningless.

Are there areas in your life where you focus on minor religious practices while neglecting more significant matters such as justice, mercy, and faith? How can you better balance these aspects in your spiritual walk?

Do you find yourself judging others while overlooking your own shortcomings? How can you practice more mercy and compassion in your interactions with those who are different or struggling?

What evidence of faith can be seen in your life today? Are you relying on rituals alone, or do you have a deep, personal trust in Christ and His teachings?

In what ways do you ensure that your religious practices are not just for show but are rooted in true repentance and a relationship with God?

Do you prioritize outward acts of faith over inward transformation? How can you focus more on fostering a genuine heart of faith and love for others?