Words of Encouragement

I liked this picture.  When the "dogs" approach, it is good to have someone willing to sacrifice themself to be by your side so that you do not have to face those trials alone.

Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the measure of faith God has given you. - Romans 12:1-3

Sacrifices. My Reasonable Service. I know I have written using this scripture several times before, but you can never speak about this too often. The call from Paul to the people is to understand the mercy of God.  This mercy from God has given them life because of God's sacrifice of his son.

So then the call is be willing to be a "living" sacrifice unto God.  God's Son sacrificed himself for you and I so that we can walk right before the Lord.  When Jesus did this for us, we then were given the strength to walk right, live right, think right and obey him.  We can sacrifice our bodies to God so that they can be used for his purpose.  When we do that, he will glorify himself through our sacrifices. 

We can worship God and give ourselves to him and know that he will bring about something wonderful, even if we have to face difficulties.  The difficulties do not stop the beauty from coming through. 

Lord today, we say thank you for your Spirit and your gift that helps us to live for you, your way.