Day 1 ~ Reasonable Expectations

 Day 1 | 40 Days with God

 

1) Brothers and sisters, in light of all I have shared with you about God’s mercies, I urge you to offer your bodies as a living and holy sacrifice to God, a sacred offering that brings Him pleasure; this is our reasonable essential worship. 2) Do not allow this world to mold you in its own image. Instead be transformed from the inside out by renewing our mind. As a result, you will be able to discern what God wills, and whatever God finds good, pleasing and complete.  Romans 12: 1-2(TVNT)

My understanding of presenting my body as a living and holy sacrifice had always been in the area of cleanliness. Not just in terms of personal hygiene, but also in abstaining from any harmful activities like smoking, fornicating etc.

I’m beginning to understand now there’s so much more.

Under the Old Testament law, a blood sacrifice had to be made to atone for sins, but Christ paid for my sins with His own blood, by suffering a vicious death on the cross. Knowing this used to make me feel guilty, because I was so not worth it, and for a long time the guilt was a barrier that prevented me from fully accepting this love that was beyond my ability to comprehend.

Everything I am, have, or ever will be is by His grace and mercy. What do I have to give Him?

I have no tangible thing to give the Lord of my life, except myself. Yes, I can give my praise, worship, gratitude, love and affection and the Bible tells me all of these are acceptable, however, willingly offering my body brings Him pleasure.  And, I want to please God.

Considering all Jesus has done for me, offering my entire self: mind, body, soul, mouth, arms, legs, hands and feet is the least I can do. Use me Lord. Use me.

Tomorrow: Day 2 | Embracing The Life | James 1:1-12

Be Blessed!