But King David replied to Araunah, “No, I insist on paying the full price. I will not take for the Lord what is yours, or sacrifice a burnt offering that costs me nothing.” 1 Chronicles 21:24

In our fast food, “Have it Your Way” world, we rarely have to settle for inconvenience. We have so many choices. If one store doesn’t have what we want, we can go across the street. If we can’t find it locally, we can order it online. For a few more dollars, we can get it shipped by tomorrow. Our society has little experience with sacrifice. Even in church we have our traditional, contemporary or blended brand of worship. Pick your style.

King David was the most powerful man in Israel. As king, he had unlimited resources. Like many people in our affluent culture, he rarely had to go without anything. Even in his worship of God, he was offered the animal for the ceremony free of charge. Yet, he declined, knowing that an offering to God at no personal cost was not acceptable.

In my own life today, I must ask myself if my devotion to God is based on convenience, or whether I wish to truly honor the God who sacrificed His own Son for me. It may be a financial offering or in giving of my time. They ways He calls me to honor Him may vary, but He’s always worthy of my best, especially at my own expense.

God, forgive me if an attitude of convenience has influenced my devotion to You. Teach me what it means to truly love and honor You. Thank You for the sacrifice You made for me in Your Son Jesus. Amen.

Take Action

Giving an offering to God does not always mean giving financially. Consider and pray today about what gift of time, talent or resources you can give back to God in your church or to make Jesus known in your community.


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Tags: sacrifice