How can we apply the concept of consecration in our daily lives today? Anchor Verse “You are to consecrate the breast of the wave offering that was waved and the thigh of the presentation offering that was presented from the ram of ordination—what belonged to Aaron and to his sons.” (Exodus 29:27) Understanding Consecration • In Exodus 29, God sets apart Aaron and his sons for priestly service. • “Consecrate” means to dedicate something wholly to God’s use—no mixing, no compromise. • Leviticus 20:7-8 echoes the call: “Consecrate yourselves... and be holy, for I am the LORD your God.” • The concept carries into the New Testament: Romans 12:1 urges believers to present their bodies “as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God.” Principles for Daily Consecration • God receives the first and best, not leftovers (Proverbs 3:9). • Every believer is a “royal priest” (1 Peter 2:5, 9); consecration is not optional. • Holiness begins inwardly—mind, motives, affections (2 Corinthians 7:1). • Consecration affects ordinary tasks: work, study, parenting, recreation (Colossians 3:17). • Stewardship of resources shows a consecrated heart (2 Corinthians 9:7). Practical Steps to Live Consecrated Lives • Start each morning by consciously yielding the day to God—before phone, news, or task lists. • Saturate your mind with Scripture; let His Word set the agenda (Psalm 1:2). • Guard inputs: media, conversations, music—whatever dulls spiritual sensitivity, remove. • Serve someone daily without fanfare; consecration expresses itself in self-giving love (Galatians 5:13). • Practice immediate obedience to the Spirit’s promptings; delay breeds compromise. • Pursue purity in relationships and sexuality (1 Thessalonians 4:3-4). • Schedule regular “Sabbath moments”—intentional pauses to remember whose you are (Mark 6:31). Living as Kingdom Priests Today • Priests stood between God and people; we intercede in prayer and embody His character (1 Timothy 2:1). • Keep spiritual fire burning: ongoing confession and cleansing (1 John 1:9). • Maintain habit of praise; consecrated hearts overflow with gratitude (Hebrews 13:15). Consecration and Community • Holiness thrives in fellowship—iron sharpens iron (Proverbs 27:17). • “Let us consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds” (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Share testimonies of God’s work; celebration reinforces devotion (Psalm 40:9-10). A Life Set Apart: Expect the Fruit • Deeper intimacy with the Lord (James 4:8). • Increased discernment and authority in prayer (John 15:7). • A compelling witness that draws others to Christ (Matthew 5:16). • Eternal perspective that steadies the heart amid trials (2 Corinthians 4:17-18). Closing Charge “Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely. And may your spirit, soul, and body be kept sound and blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.” (1 Thessalonians 5:23) |
    |