If I had been aware of malice in my heart, the Lord would not have listened.
Anyone who turns his ear away from hearing the law — even his prayer is detestable.
“What are all your sacrifices to me?” asks the Lord. “I have had enough of burnt offerings and rams and the fat of well-fed cattle; I have no desire for the blood of bulls, lambs, or male goats.
When you come to appear before me, who requires this from you — this trampling of my courts?
Stop bringing useless offerings. Your incense is detestable to me. New Moons and Sabbaths, and the calling of solemn assemblies — I cannot stand iniquity with a festival.
I hate your New Moons and prescribed festivals. They have become a burden to me; I am tired of putting up with them.
When you spread out your hands in prayer, I will refuse to look at you; even if you offer countless prayers, I will not listen. Your hands are covered with blood.
Indeed, the Lord’s arm is not too weak to save, and his ear is not too deaf to hear.
But your iniquities are separating you from your God, and your sins have hidden his face from you so that he does not listen.
We know that God doesn’t listen to sinners, but if anyone is God-fearing and does his will, he listens to him.