Winning By Surrendering

"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

Pastor Bob Barlow, pastor of a small church in Savannah, Georgia would always say, "When you read the word 'Therefore' look to see what it is 'there for'." So, what is the "therefore" there-for in Romans 12:1?

"Concerning the gospel, they (Israel) are enemies for your sake, but concerning the election they are beloved for the sake of the fathers. For the gifts and the calling of God are irrevocable. For as you were once disobedient to God, yet have now obtained mercy through their disobedience, even so these also have now been disobedient, that through the mercy shown you they also may obtain mercy. For God has committed them all to disobedience, that He might have mercy on all. Oh, the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are His judgments and His ways past finding out!" - Romans 11:28-33

Therefore, because God showed us such grace and mercy while we were yet sinners offer yourself as a living sacrifice. It is only reasonable given what He has done.

When we were born, we were destined for defeat. We fight our whole lives for survival and victory.  Yet, at the end of our natural lives, it matters not what we have achieved in our lifetime.  The wealth or fame that we have accumulated. Dust to Dust. And then the judgement. Apart from salvation by faith in Jesus, we are hell bent.

The only way that we can win the eternal struggle is by surrendering - offer ourselves a living sacrifice to God - it is only reasonable considering the great Sacrifice the God the Father sent Jesus the Son to make for us.  Martie and I were part of Campus Crusade for Christ Military Ministry - we still are. The leader of that part of Campus Crusade would say "It's all about Jesus and all about Grace". Another friend when asked what he thinks, always replies, "Jesus Saves" Those are eternal and immutable truths.  The essence of God's solution for man's sin.

The way we win in life is to surrender. To admit defeat. Jesus has already won the eternal battle for the souls of men and women. Hallelujah! 

Think about it – Pray about it – Believe it – Walk in it. Let your light shine and give God the glory.

By Faith Alone By His Grace Alone And For His Glory Alone