Monday Manna is being hosted by Joanne at An Open Book today. I couldn't resist jumping in on the Scripture because I JUST FINISHED WRITING A DEVO ON ROMANS 12:1 for a completely unrelated writing project at my church (literally, the deadline was today). Joanne encouraged me to post some of it. I'm sure the timing is not a coincidence. Joanne posted an INCREDIBLE perspective on it, as far as all the others I've read so far, so go by and read and join in if you can...
My entire adult life has revolved around serving God, especially in worship and drama. For many years, this is how I understood Romans 12:1:
And I lived it out, offering myself to the Lord’s service, wherever He called me. I served Him with my talents, but also with my gifts of shepherding and encouragement. My prayer was for all of it to be holy and pleasing to the Lord, and to live out my call to worship.
An internal struggle came, however, when I noticed some strongholds in my life. Why am I struggling? I thought. I’m supposed to be holy! As I cried out desperately for help, the Lord lovingly showed me what I was missing in this “living sacrifice” kind of faith. He opened my eyes to the whole verse:
Once I understood the entire verse (and its context with the preceding chapters), I realized that the emphasis is not on ME living a life of worship. Rather, it is on living with God’s mercies in full view. It’s saying, “Therefore—after eleven chapters of theology showing what you’ve died to, what you’re alive to, and what the Lord has done for you—THEREFORE—In view of those mercies, see worship for what it really is—not a gift you give to God—rather an offering of grateful sacrifice you live for God, knowing you don’t deserve a lick of those mercies.”
But there’s that one last word: sacrifice. I say I’ll give it all, yet I feel an agitated resistance to any discomfort that accompanies it. The only way for me to say “not my will, but Yours, Lord” is to continually focus on God’s character. It takes a mind that is preoccupied with the truth of God—as verse two says—a renewed mind.
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.”
With His renewal (and constant help), I’m able to live out God’s “pleasing and perfect will,” and finally experience true worship—the kind that flows from a grateful heart.
In the Key of HE,
8 friends shared a comment:
Isn't it amazing how we think we know a verse, and then find out we've missed it entirely? Love those POV shifts!
In view of God's mercy, I should be standing of the street corner, shouting his salvation for all to hear...that's what I should be doing. Instead, I live quite a pampered, safe life...comfortable in my own grace while refusing God's gift to others. Between yours and Joanne's posts today, God is confirming something in my heart and life.
He is so worthy of more. Time to put my faith into some bold action. Maybe not the street corners, but not far from them.
peace~elaine
LauraLee, this is beautiful. It resonated so deeply within me! Lots to think about here...I loved it!
I am sooooooo glad you posted about the 'therefore'!! That has been ringing in my head all weekend, but when I sat down to write something else was there. *roll*
All that mercy that He's poured out on us...WOWZERS! THAT'S the key right there!!
Thank you!
Huggles!
Ahhhhhh yes..THIS spoke to my soul...being transformed and dying to self....You know where my heart's been lately (AND I'm going to check out that Chris Tomlin song tonight) and this just went along side it...hmmmmmmm, might we be on the same wavelength...
peace to you girl!
lori
Wow, this was just great!! Thanks for sharing this today.
What a challenging word to ponder♥
Great writing LauraLee! It's only because of His mercy, we can love and worship with a grateful heart. Thanks for sharing this! God bless!
This is very lovely.
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