Proverbs 21:3 - Meaning and Application

Many people deceive themselves by thinking that if they offer a sacrifice, that will make up for injustice. They imagine religious acts can excuse wrongdoing and give them permission to live unfairly. That is part of what makes a person's way seem right, even when it is not (Proverbs 21:2). People say, “We have fasted” (Isaiah 58:3), or, “I have fellowship offerings with me” (Proverbs 7:14).

But the truth is clear: living rightly, doing what is just, and showing mercy please God more than the most impressive and costly acts of worship. Sacrifices were appointed by God and were acceptable when offered in faith and repentance, but not otherwise (Isaiah 1:11). Even then, moral obedience came before sacrifice (1 Samuel 15:22), which shows that sacrifices were never valuable in themselves, nor were they meant to remain the main duty forever (Micah 6:6-8).

Much of true religion is doing justice and fairness from duty to God, with little regard for the world’s praise, and with love for our neighbor. This is more pleasing to God than all burnt offerings and sacrifices (Mark 12:33).