Journey Through Psalms

But to the wicked, God says: "What right have you to recite my laws or take my covenant on your lips? Psalm 50:16 

In this verse God questioned Israel’s right to recite His word while  their lives demonstrated disobedience. God has never been interested with outward conformity and empty knowledge without inward conviction and intimacy. The real problem being addressed here is that of rituals without relationship.  The challenge is that rituals give us feelings of being right with God when actually we may be distant and empty. 
 
God’s requirement is made clear in many verses of the Bible. Work at living in peace with everyone, and work at living a holy life, for those who are not holy will not see the Lord. Hebrews 12:14. Our public declaration should be matched by our private devotion. Remember He says Not everyone who calls out to me, ‘Lord! Lord!’ will enter the Kingdom of Heaven. Only those who actually do the will of my Father in heaven will enter. Mt 7:21