Romans 12:1, NKJV
Believers have been called out from the world and set apart for God’s purposes. We live in this earthly realm, but we are citizens of His spiritual kingdom. He commands our total commitment and love. Believers must freely dedicate themselves wholly to a lifetime of service to Him through unselfish service to our neighbor. “We love because He first loved us” (1 John 4:19, NIV).
In Romans 12:1, Paul urges the church, “by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice” – a body that has been spiritually resurrected from death in sins and trespasses. We are new creatures in Christ; therefore, we must bring our living selves to Him, holy and acceptable. After all, Jesus gave his life as the ultimate sacrifice for us. Paul says that we have heard the preaching and teaching of the gospel. Now, put it into practice in your every day living.
God wants a sacrifice that is well-pleasing to Him. Because He is holy, we must be holy. We must clean up our old, defiled bodies, and live like clay jars in which the Holy Spirit is stored. Believers must give up their selfish, unrighteous ways and take on His selfless, righteous ways. “If you love me, keep my commandments” (John 14:15). Love and obedience go hand-in-hand in pleasing God. We are to be fully committed sacrifices – living, holy, and acceptable. That is our reasonable service, or genuine worship, to Christ.
Clap your hands and shout, “Glory!”