Introduction:
The theme of true devotion over rituals is a recurring motif throughout the Bible, emphasizing the importance of a sincere heart and genuine faith over mere external observances. This concept is deeply rooted in the teachings of both the Old and New Testaments, where God consistently calls His people to prioritize inner devotion and righteousness over ritualistic practices.

Old Testament Insights:
In the Old Testament, the prophets frequently addressed the issue of empty rituals. The prophet Samuel, for instance, declared to King Saul, "Does the LORD delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, obedience is better than sacrifice, and attentiveness is better than the fat of rams" (1 Samuel 15:22). This passage underscores the principle that God values obedience and attentiveness to His commands above ritual sacrifices.

Similarly, the prophet Isaiah conveyed God's disdain for hollow religious practices, stating, "What is your multitude of sacrifices to Me? says the LORD. I am full of burnt offerings of rams and the fat of well-fed cattle; I have no delight in the blood of bulls and lambs and goats" (Isaiah 1:11). Isaiah called the people to "learn to do right; seek justice and correct the oppressor; defend the fatherless and plead the case of the widow" (Isaiah 1:17), highlighting the importance of justice and mercy over ritual.

New Testament Teachings:
In the New Testament, Jesus Christ further emphasized the priority of true devotion over ritualistic observance. In His rebuke of the Pharisees, Jesus quoted the prophet Hosea, saying, "I desire mercy, not sacrifice" (Matthew 9:13). This statement reflects the heart of God, who values compassion and mercy over mere ceremonial compliance.

Jesus also criticized the Pharisees for their hypocrisy, stating, "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! You pay tithes of mint, dill, and cumin, but you have disregarded the weightier matters of the law: justice, mercy, and faithfulness. You should have practiced the latter, without neglecting the former" (Matthew 23:23). Here, Jesus affirmed the necessity of practicing justice, mercy, and faithfulness, while not neglecting the rituals, thus calling for a balanced approach where true devotion is paramount.

Apostolic Emphasis:
The apostles continued this teaching in their epistles. The Apostle Paul, in his letter to the Romans, wrote, "Therefore I urge you, brothers, on account of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God, which is your spiritual service of worship" (Romans 12:1). Paul encouraged believers to live lives of holiness and devotion, presenting themselves as living sacrifices, which is the true form of worship.

James, the brother of Jesus, also highlighted the essence of true religion, stating, "Religion that is pure and undefiled before God the Father is this: to care for orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself unstained by the world" (James 1:27). This passage reiterates the call to active compassion and personal holiness as the core of genuine faith.

Conclusion:
The biblical narrative consistently points to the supremacy of true devotion over mere ritual. From the prophets of the Old Testament to the teachings of Jesus and the apostles, the message is clear: God desires a heart that is fully devoted to Him, characterized by obedience, mercy, justice, and love.