Offer sacrifices of righteousness and trust in the Lord.
The psalmist calls people not only to turn away from an evil way, but also to return to God with sincere faith. The phrase “Offer sacrifices of righteousness” in the context of the Old Covenant referred to sacrifices that were offered not merely with an outward ritual, but with a repentant and obedient heart. God did not accept the sacrifice when a person continued to live in falsehood and unrighteousness. Therefore, a righteous sacrifice was one accompanied by true repentance and trust toward God. In the New Covenant, animal sacrifices are no longer offered, because Jesus Christ offered the perfect sacrifice for our sins once and for all. For this reason, the Christian’s “sacrifice” is to dedicate his life to God—to live in obedience, love, righteousness, and good works (Romans 12:1, Hebrews 13:15–16). The words “Trust in the Lord” show that such a life is possible only by trusting God. A person often turns to wrong means when he tries to secure his well-being on his own, but the one who trusts in the Lord renounces falsehood and unrighteousness, being confident that God will care for him. This verse teaches that true worship is not only with words or ritual, but with a life surrendered to God and lived in trust.