In what ways can we offer "gifts and sacrifices" in our daily lives? Setting the Scene Hebrews 5:1: “For every high priest is appointed from among men to represent them in matters relating to God, to offer gifts and sacrifices for sins.” That verse reminds us that offering “gifts and sacrifices” has always been central to life with God. Though the temple system is fulfilled in Christ, the principle of bringing something costly and pleasing to the Lord remains. Christ, Our Perfect High Priest • Hebrews 9:11-12 shows Jesus presenting His own blood in the heavenly sanctuary—once for all. • Because His sacrifice is complete, we don’t atone for sin; instead, we respond to His finished work (Hebrews 10:19-22). • Our daily “gifts and sacrifices” become acts of gratitude that flow from a forgiven heart. Living Sacrifices Every Day Romans 12:1: “Therefore I urge you, brothers, on account of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God, which is your spiritual service of worship.” What does that look like? • Whole-life surrender: every choice, schedule, and relationship placed under Jesus’ lordship. • Bodily purity: refusing habits that defile His temple (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). • Willing availability: saying, “Here am I; send me” (Isaiah 6:8). Gifts of Praise and Thanksgiving Hebrews 13:15: “Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise—the fruit of lips that confess His name.” • Verbal thanksgiving, whether sung aloud in church or whispered during chores. • Public testimony, telling others what He has done (Psalm 107:2). • Joyful singing instead of grumbling (Philippians 2:14-16). Sacrifices of Doing Good and Sharing Hebrews 13:16: “And do not neglect to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.” • Financial generosity—supporting missionaries, caring for the needy, blessing a struggling friend (Philippians 4:18). • Time given to serve: teaching children’s class, preparing a meal, visiting the lonely. • Practical compassion: clothing drives, hospital visits, fostering children—love expressed in tangible ways (1 John 3:17-18). Obedience in the Hidden Places 1 Samuel 15:22 reminds us “to obey is better than sacrifice.” In daily life: • Keeping short accounts with God—confessing sin promptly (1 John 1:9). • Honoring marriage vows, working with integrity, submitting to authorities (Colossians 3:22-24; 1 Peter 2:13). • Speaking truth and guarding our tongues (Ephesians 4:25, 29). Sacrifice of Intercession Psalm 141:2 likens prayer to incense. We offer: • Regular intercession for family, church, leaders, and the lost (1 Timothy 2:1-4). • Fasting combined with prayer when burdens are heavy (Matthew 6:16-18). • Blessing those who persecute us, turning criticism into prayer (Luke 6:27-28). Enduring Hardship as a Sacrifice Philippians 1:29 says believers are “granted to suffer for His sake.” When trials arise: • We choose rejoicing (James 1:2-4). • We trust God’s refining purpose, offering our pain back to Him as worship (1 Peter 1:6-7). • We encourage fellow sufferers, turning comfort received into comfort given (2 Corinthians 1:3-5). Why Our Offerings Matter • They please God (Hebrews 13:16). • They proclaim the worth of Christ to a watching world (1 Peter 2:9-12). • They store up eternal reward (Matthew 6:19-20). • They deepen our fellowship with the Lord who gave everything for us (Philippians 3:10). Practical Next Steps • Start each morning by consciously presenting yourself to God—body, mind, plans. • Keep a gratitude list to cultivate a “sacrifice of praise.” • Set aside a portion of income for kingdom work before other spending. • Schedule regular service—make it part of your calendar. • Turn daily interruptions into offerings: respond with patience, kindness, and prayer. As we live this way, Hebrews 12:28 becomes reality: “Therefore, since we are receiving an unshakable kingdom, let us be thankful and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe.” |
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