How can we apply the concept of consecration in our daily lives today? The Pattern of Consecration in Exodus 30:29 “You are to consecrate them so that they may be most holy, and whatever touches them will be holy.” – Exodus 30:29 • In the tabernacle, ordinary objects were touched with sacred oil and instantly reclassified as “most holy.” • Consecration did not come from the objects themselves but from God’s declared purpose and the anointing applied to them. • The verse reminds us that holiness is both a status granted and a lifestyle expected. Once something—or someone—belongs to God, everything that comes into contact with that person or object is meant to experience the overflow of that holiness. Christ, the Fulfillment and Source of Our Consecration • Hebrews 10:10: “By this will we have been sanctified through the sacrifice of the body of Jesus Christ once for all.” • 1 Corinthians 1:30: “Christ Jesus… became for us wisdom from God, and righteousness and sanctification and redemption.” • The anointing oil of Exodus foreshadows the Holy Spirit (2 Corinthians 1:21-22). When we receive Christ, the Spirit “touches” us, setting us apart as God’s possession. Living Set Apart in Heart and Mind • Romans 12:1-2 calls us to offer our bodies “as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God.” • 2 Corinthians 10:5 urges us to “take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.” Practical outworking: – Begin each day by verbally dedicating your mind, emotions, and imagination to the Lord. – Filter media, conversations, and thought patterns through Philippians 4:8. Consecrating Time and Priorities • Psalm 90:12 teaches us to “number our days” so we gain a heart of wisdom. • Ephesians 5:15-16 tells us to redeem the time because the days are evil. Daily steps: – Block off the “firstfruits” of the day for Scripture and prayer before engaging other tasks. – Treat work hours as stewardship; aim to serve “as unto the Lord” (Colossians 3:23). – Schedule rest with intention, seeing Sabbath principles as a gift, not a burden. Consecrating Possessions and Finances • Proverbs 3:9: “Honor the LORD with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your harvest.” • 2 Corinthians 9:7: “God loves a cheerful giver.” Ways to live this out: – Tithing as a baseline, generous offerings as the Spirit leads. – Regularly ask, “Does this purchase advance God’s kingdom or distract from it?” – View your home, car, and possessions as tools for hospitality and ministry. Consecrating Relationships and Speech • Ephesians 4:29 commands words that “build up” and impart grace. • 1 Peter 3:15: “Always be prepared to give a defense… yet do so with gentleness and respect.” Application: – Forgive quickly, refusing to let bitterness defile holy ground (Hebrews 12:15). – Speak blessing over family, friends, and coworkers, expecting God to use your words. – Choose partnerships and close friendships that encourage holiness (Proverbs 13:20). Daily Habits That Keep Us Holy • Regular self-examination (2 Corinthians 13:5) • Confession and cleansing (1 John 1:7-9) • Corporate worship and fellowship (Hebrews 10:24-25) • Serving others with your spiritual gifts (1 Peter 4:10-11) Consecration is not a one-time event but an ongoing lifestyle. As the Lord touched the tabernacle articles with holy oil, He now touches every area of our lives through the indwelling Spirit. By continually yielding our thoughts, time, resources, and relationships to Him, we become living reminders that “whatever touches them will be holy.” |