Devotional: Poured Out in Sacrifice and Service
Sacrifice and Service of Faith
Scripture Readings:
Philippians 2:17
1 John 3:16
John 15:12-13
Philippians 1:21
Acts 20:24
Romans 12:1
Theme: Sacrifice and Service of Faith
Introduction: Beloved, today we reflect on a profound truth: the call by God to reach others is a call to pour every ounce of our lives into rescuing souls. Our journey is one of sacrifice and service, a journey where we become libations poured out for God's purposes.
Reflection: Paul’s words in Philippians 2:17 reveal a heart wholly given to God’s mission. He saw his life as a drink offering, poured out in service to the faith of others. This imagery is powerful. In ancient times, a drink offering was a precious libation poured on an altar, symbolizing the giver's devotion. Similarly, we are called to spend our lives to gain souls in the Spirit, just as Jesus poured His life to bring salvation.
1 John 3:16 teaches us the essence of love: Christ laid down His life for us, and we are to lay down our lives for our brethren. This call to sacrificial love is echoed in John 15:12-13, where Jesus commands us to love one another as He has loved us, even to the point of laying down our lives.
People are waiting for the touch of Christ through our lives. Our existence finds true meaning only when it is spent for the Gospel. As Paul declares in Philippians 1:21, “For to me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” Every moment lived for Christ is a step towards eternal gain.
Paul's dedication is further emphasized in Acts 20:24, where he speaks of his unwavering commitment to the ministry he received from the Lord Jesus. He did not count his life dear to himself, but lived to testify to the Gospel of God’s grace.
Consecration Through Prayer and Fasting: To be effective vessels, we must consecrate ourselves through prayer and fasting. Romans 12:1 urges us to present our bodies as living sacrifices, holy and acceptable to God. This is our reasonable service.
God only saturates the separated. When our flesh is too active, the flow of the Spirit is hindered. Biblical fasting, abstaining from food to weaken carnal desires and indulging in prayer and the Word, strengthens our spiritual experiences. Through this labor in the Spirit, nations, families, and individuals are impacted.
Examples of Devotion: Consider the examples of Moses, who fasted and prayed to receive the Ten Commandments; Prophetess Hannah, who served in the temple with fasting and prayers; and Esther, who called for a fast to save her people. Their lives were marked by deep consecration, leading to mighty works of God.
Application: Reflect on how you can pour out your life for the sake of the Gospel. Are you willing to lay down your desires, to be a living sacrifice? Commit to regular times of prayer and fasting, seeking God’s strength to fulfill your calling.
Prayer: Lord, we offer our lives as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to You. Help us to pour out every ounce of our being in service to Your mission. Strengthen us through prayer and fasting, that we may be effective vessels for Your glory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.