Day Six ~ Spreading the Incense of Praise
Day 6 ~ January 11th, 2019
Spreading the Incense of Your Praise
Therefore, I urge you brothers, in view of God's Mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God- this is your spiritual act of worship." Romans 12:1 NIV
1 Chronicles 29:10-20 is one of the greatest expressions of worship found in God's Word. Read this prayer in its entirety and reflect on the essence of true stewardship: the realization that God owns everything. REALLY- STOP AND READ THAT PASSAGE OF SCRIPTURE... After you have read and reflected on this passage, take some time to consider the significance of being in partnership with God. Recognize Him not only as the Lord in and of your life, but also as the Good Shepherd and Provider of your life's venture. David was completely captivated by the reality of this, and as a result, he became unreservedly focused on building the temple for God's glory. His leadership influenced others to contribute in the same spirit of sacrifice and praise. "The people rejoiced at the willing response of their leaders, for they had given freely and wholeheartedly to the Lord." 1 Chronicles 29:9, NIV
Relative to your life, plan a worship time with your family or a small group of friends that includes the following three features of true worship:
1. Gratitude: The recognition that all we have has come from His hand. We are but channels through which the work of God is carried out. When one's life is lived primarily in consideration of Him, it is less likely that what He provides for Kingdom work will be squandered on self-gratification.
2. Sacrifice: David said, "I will not sacrifice to the LORD my God burnt offerings that cost me nothing." 2 Samuel 24:24 NIV. Sacrifice always involves cost. It has little to do with how much ones gives. What is more important is the measure of one's sacrifice. Did it truly cost us something? When it does, then we have set aside something and made it sacred.
3. Praise: The distinction between gratitude and praise is this: Gratitude is appreciation for what God has done, praise is appreciation for who God is. David was not only giving thanks in his prayer, he was expressing praise. "Now, our God, we give you thanks, and praise your glorious name." 1 Chronicles 29:13 NIV
As you conclude your worship time, recognize God for the provider He is and commit yourself to becoming a good steward of His provision.
Prayer Focus: Pray that God would begin to renew your mind with the truth of 1 Chronicles 29:10-20, that God owns it all. Pray that God would release the gift of stewarship upon your life and CFTN.F, and that we would be a people who steward God's resources in ways that please Him.