How can we apply the concept of consecration in our daily lives? Opening the Text “ ‘You are to give a young bull as a sin offering to the priests, to the Levites who belong to the family of Zadok who come near to minister before Me,’ declares the Lord GOD.” (Ezekiel 43:19) Consecration Defined • To consecrate means to set something or someone apart exclusively for God’s use. • Scripture treats this as both a once-for-all dedication and an ongoing lifestyle (Leviticus 20:7; Romans 12:1). Lessons from Ezekiel 43:19 • A specific sacrifice was required—consecration costs something valuable. • The offering addressed sin first; cleansing precedes service (1 John 1:7). • Only those set apart could “come near to minister.” Nearness to God flows from holiness (James 4:8). Putting Consecration into Practice Present the whole person (Romans 12:1): • Mind—filter thoughts through God’s Word (John 17:17). • Body—use eyes, hands, tongue as “instruments of righteousness” (Romans 6:13). • Will—choose obedience even when inconvenient (Galatians 2:20). Pursue daily cleansing: • Honest confession keeps the altar clean (1 John 1:9). • Repent quickly; don’t let sin linger (2 Corinthians 7:1). Practice separation and devotion: • Turn from influences that dull spiritual sensitivity (2 Timothy 2:21). • Carve out focused time for Scripture, worship, and silence before God. Offer continual sacrifices God now desires: • Praise (Hebrews 13:15). • Good works and generosity (Hebrews 13:16). • Serving others in love (1 Peter 4:10). Guarding and Maintaining a Consecrated Life • Regular self-examination under the Spirit’s searchlight (Psalm 139:23-24). • Fellowship with believers who value holiness (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Prompt obedience to new light from God’s Word—consecration is progressive. The Blessings that Follow • Deeper intimacy with the Lord—He draws near (James 4:8). • Greater usefulness—“prepared for every good work” (2 Timothy 2:21). • A compelling witness that points others to Christ (1 Peter 2:9). |
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