Today’s Reading, 1 Chronicles 18-21
Focal Scripture: 1 Chronicles 21:24 “King David answered Ornan, “No, I insist on paying the full price, for I will not take for the Lord what belongs to you or offer burnt offerings that cost me nothing.””
Paying a price for something makes it more meaningful. Yes, you can receive gifts that hold a special place in your heart but having to sacrifice time or money makes it mean more in the long run. For instance with one of my degrees I sacrificed much time and money to complete the task. I worked myself to the bone and spend countless hours in study. My family sacrificed and we all had the chance to celebrate together. Out of all my degrees the price paid for that one made it mean more to us as a family.
In today’s reading David admits he messed up with the census. Israel is being judged because of David’s sin and the angel of the Lord is judging the nation severely. David wants to set up an altar and offers to buy a field and animals. The owner tells David he will give it to him for free. However, David knows that an offering that cost him nothing is not valuable. He understands that a sacrifice must cost him something.
The same goes for us when we come to the Lord in worship. We need to make a sacrifice of our lives daily. This sacrifice must cost us something for it to be meaningful. I hear many people say that the Christian walk is simple. In actuality it is difficult because you have to sacrifice your self daily. You must examine your life and decide what needs to be cut off and put on the altar. Everyday is different and every day is a difficulty.
However, we do it with joy because we know what it produces in us! I want to be clear when I say difficulty here. I don’t mean the Christian life is a drudge, I do mean it is a battle. No different than if you are trying to get in shape. Everyday you are sacrificing what you want for what is best. This thinking determines how deep your walk with Christ will be as you journey.
The challenge believers have is to make sure they are aware of what they must sacrifice daily. Even when it comes at a great cost to them as an individual. God gave his son for us, the least we can do is sacrifice parts of our lives to bring us closer.
Sanctification is a process. One of obedience and one that is costly. Never be a person who says that is just the way I am. Give more of your self and let is cost you something because all good sacrifice is costly.
Tomorrow, I plan on reading 1 Chronicles 22-24
