FAITH: Comes by Hearing the Word of God
Romans 12:1 (c): I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service.
FAITH: Comes by Studying the Word of God
The verb “present” in this verse means “present once and for all.” It commands a definite commitment of the body to the Lord, just as a bride and groom in their wedding service commit themselves to each other. It is this once-for-all commitment that determines what they do with their bodies. Paul gives us two reasons for this commitment: (1) it is the right response to all that God has done for us—“I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God” (italics mine); and (2) this commitment is “our reasonable service” or “our spiritual worship.” This means that every day is a worship experience when your body is yielded to the Lord. 1
FAITH: Comes by Obeying the Word of God
Indeed I have all and abound. I am full, having received from Epaphroditus the things sent from you, a sweet-smelling aroma, an acceptable sacrifice, well pleasing to God. Philippians 4:18
The most beautiful, sweet smelling aroma in the world, is when we experience the new mercies of God in the morning, and then make an intentional decision to forsake our selfish pursuits, and present ourselves to Him for His glorious purposes.
FAITH: Comes by Experiencing the Transforming Work of God
My joyful obedience to Him is a daily act of worship.
FAITH: Comes by Praying with the Word of God
Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart Be acceptable in Your sight, O Lord, my strength and my Redeemer. Psalm 19:14
Dear Father, as I think about You and speak about You, may all that I do be acceptable in Your sight, in Jesus Name. Amen.
1. Wiersbe, W. W. (1996). The Bible exposition commentary (Vol. 1, p. 554). Wheaton, IL: Victor Books.
