Sacrifice
Heb 13:15 KJV
(15) By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name.
For the one who has truly come into a life of worship, there will be an opportunity at every juncture to sacrifice natural tendencies of self-indulgence for a return to complete dependence upon the only source of life. Whether after victory or defeat, there will, in a relationship with God, always be a chance to let Him mean more to you than any emotion, possession, obsession or treasure in life. Rather than moving forward in simple reaction to whatever has taken place, there can be removal of the power of any circumstance by letting praise dominate and burn it up on an altar of worship. Where desire is strong to expound upon an experience and focus on one’s self, vision can be lifted to the greatness that has no limitation in us. Praise of Him can remove the power of where we’ve been and what we’ve experienced.
This was one of Moses’ most significant understandings– that there was never a point at which his own importance or lack thereof rose above the necessity of sacrifice. He was continually seeking out an opportunity to build an altar before the Lord, a place where He could allow things that were precious and of earthly worth to be consumed in the presence of the Lord. As He continued through otherwise overwhelming challenges to incredible victories, every milestone, every turn in the road gave reason for renewed acknowledgment of and dependence on the ultimate source of life. This, in fact, was the stated purpose of the Israelite’s exodus, to sacrifice to their God.
As this recent milestone of the year’s passing presents us with a new year and new set of challenges, there is a wonderful opportunity for a sacrifice to be presented and inquiry made to God, our Conquering Deliverer. As His praise is lifted on an altar of worship, His purpose and His plan will be given priority over any other situation or circumstance. Rather than being consumed with those things of earthly significance, they themselves will be consumed as an offering before the only worthy One.
