The process of becoming more Christ-like, requires a constant dying to self. Not in our own strength, but by the power of the Holy Spirit, as we yield to His control. The temple Solomon built and its furnishings were dedicated to the Lord. As the people honored God, His glory would fill the temple. Countless sheep and oxen were sacrificed there, a foreshadowing of the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus on the cross. He who knew no sin, became sin for us all. Seeing we are the temple of the Lord, a dwelling place for God's Holy Spirit, our earthly vessels are to be dedicated to Him. Let us therefore surrender our minds, our bodies and our souls to the control of God our Maker, who has called us with a holy calling.
Our faith in God will be tested time and time again. Let Him have His way. He will not put on you more than you can bear. Encourage yourself in His word. Desire it more than the food you eat. Pray without ceasing.
Rejoice! When we give ourselves on the altar—when we die to self and relinquish the need to be in control, a perfect 'will' will manifest. The will of God!
Let us now offer the sacrifice of praise, the fruit of our lips, from a heart that is thankful.
Scripture Meditation:
And Jesus answered them, saying, The hour is come, that the Son of man should be glorified.
Verily, verily, I say unto you, except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abideth alone; but if it die, it bringeth forth much fruit. He that loveth his life shall lose it, and he that hateth his life in this world shall keep it unto life eternal. If any man serve me, let him follow me, and where I am, there shall also my servant be. If any man serve me, him will my Father honour.
Now is my soul troubled and what shall I say? Father, save me from this hour; but for this cause came I unto this hour. Father, glorify thy name. Then came there a voice from heaven, saying, I have both glorified it, and will glorify it again.
John 12:23-28
John 12:23-28
