Living Sacrifice

FaithWalkDaily September 28, 2008

Rom 12:1-2 Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God-this is your spiritual act of worship. 2 Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is-his good, pleasing and perfect will. NIV

The message this morning was on Romans 12, pointing to God's goodness. I've been thinking recently about God's tenderness and mercy and want to explore how this plays into His will for us.

Sometimes, we don't see God's goodness, all we see is pain, or darkness, or obstacles. Where is God's goodness in the midst of all our difficulties?

Well, let's think about that. Suppose I weren't disabled. Suppose I still had a strong, flexible body. Where would I be right now? Would I be the prayer warrior that God has made in me? Would I be reading and savoring Scripture in daily devotions for the edification of the saints? Now that I think of it, I suppose I'm right where God wants me.

I didn't freely choose to live in a damaged body, but now that I'm here, I trust that God will continue to make the best use of it for His purposes. That's the tenderness and mercy of a loving God. My compassion is a good spiritual fit for this body.

Father, in view of Your infinite wisdom, mercy and love, I offer this body, a living sacrifice, to do with as You will. May I daily submit myself to Your plans for Your purposes. As I think about the incredible sacrifice of my Savior, let me find joy in every trial I face for Your glory. In Jesus' name we pray, amen.