Today's Reading: Proverbs 16-18; Romans 12

“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. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.” Romans 12:1-2

Paul knew something; he knew how to experience the fullness of God’s life living through him. He had learned to yield and to surrender and present his body to God as a living sacrifice, recognizing that this was his “spiritual act of worship” as the New International Version reads. In Romans 12-16, Paul turns to the practical application of all he has previously written in this letter. Paul goes into detail about what it means to have Jesus Christ as Lord of every area of life. Paul likens Christians to members of a human body. There are many members: the hands, feet, eyes, ears, nose, mouth, etc., and each has a distinctive function individually but cannot function properly without the other. All of the body is needed for the health of the body. The key is found in allowing the power of Christ to live through us in unity with others while in diversity. As the body has distinctive functions so do we in our unique giftedness. When we allow God to use our unique gifts, the body of Christ flourishes and everyone benefits. In verse 9, Paul writes, “Love must be sincere.” This love is a love without pretense. This love is not just an emotional love, but it is love in action. This sincere love is love that honors, encourages, serves, is patient in affliction, unselfish in giving, hospitable and faithful in prayer. Quite a list isn’t it. It can be overwhelming when we try to measure up to such a measuring stick! Thankfully, we have the help and aid of the Holy Spirit. This kind of living is under the Lordship of Jesus Christ and as we allow Him to help us, we allow the law of God’s kingdom to fulfill His purposes in our living and being. Therefore, church body, go ahead, and be amazed today at the life that we have been afforded through the work of Christ on the cross. Let us allow the Holy Spirit to thrive through us as He perfects the work of God’s Spirit in our lives in love today.

Blessings!
Carol Danna

Next Reading: Proverbs 19-21; Romans 13