Psalm 51:16 · KJV

"For thou desirest not sacrifice; else would I give it: thou delightest not in burnt offering."

King James Version

Passage Context

¹⁴Deliver me from bloodguiltiness, O God, thou God of my salvation: and my tongue shall sing aloud of thy righteousness.

¹⁵O Lord, open thou my lips; and my mouth shall shew forth thy praise.

¹⁶For thou desirest not sacrifice; else would I give it: thou delightest not in burnt offering.

¹⁷The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise.

¹⁸Do good in thy good pleasure unto Zion: build thou the walls of Jerusalem.

How do you prioritize sincerity in your relationship with God?

What does it mean for you that God desires your heart over sacrifices?

When have you felt your actions were more about obligation than sincerity?

faith

Focus on cultivating a sincere heart in your spiritual practices. Consider how you can express your faith authentically.

worship

Engage in worship that reflects your true feelings and relationship with God, rather than just going through the motions.

DavidBoth

The second king of Israel, known for his leadership, poetry, and a heart for God. He is a central figure in both Jewish and Christian traditions.

First appearance: 1 Samuel 16:1

direct teaching

This verse highlights that God desires a heart of obedience rather than mere ritual sacrifice, which reflects Jesus' teachings on true worship.

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