In what ways can we apply the principle of sacrifice in our lives today? Setting the Scene “ You are to present a burnt offering, an offering made by fire, a pleasing aroma to the LORD: thirteen bulls, two rams, and fourteen male lambs a year old, all unblemished.” (Numbers 29:13) What We Learn from Israel’s Offering • Quantity and quality—the people brought many animals, and every one had to be “unblemished.” • Cost—the herd diminished, yet worship required tangible loss. • Repetition—this sacrifice was part of a prescribed calendar, reminding Israel regularly that God owns everything. Why the Principle Still Matters Scripture never treats sacrifice as obsolete; it shifts its form. • Romans 12:1–2: “…present your bodies as a living sacrifice… this is your spiritual service of worship.” • Hebrews 13:15–16: “Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise… and do not neglect doing good and sharing, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.” Everyday Ways to Live the Principle 1. Offering Our Best Time – Start the day with unhurried Scripture and prayer, giving God prime time, not leftover minutes. 2. Financial Generosity – Prioritize the tithe or disciplined giving before any other expense (Proverbs 3:9). 3. Serving Others – Volunteer in church and community even when schedules feel tight (Galatians 6:9–10). 4. Holiness Choices – Lay down sinful habits, remembering that Christ “gave Himself up for us” (Ephesians 5:2). 5. Words of Praise – Replace complaining with thanksgiving; praise is called “the fruit of lips that confess His name” (Hebrews 13:15). 6. Hospitality – Open our homes and tables, mirroring the Old Testament fellowship offerings (1 Peter 4:9). Guarding the Heart Behind the Gift • Sacrifice must be heartfelt, not mechanical (Psalm 51:17). • It should cost something meaningful (2 Samuel 24:24). • The offering must reflect love, never an attempt to earn favor—Christ’s once-for-all sacrifice already secured our standing (Hebrews 10:10). Encouragement to Continue Living sacrificially may feel costly, yet the aroma still reaches heaven. Philippians 4:18 calls such offerings “a fragrant aroma, an acceptable sacrifice, well-pleasing to God.” The same God who delighted in Israel’s unblemished lambs now delights in everyday believers who place everything on the altar for Him. |
    |