A Rational - Reasonable Sacrifice To God

 Now Jesus sat opposite the treasury and saw how the people put money into the treasury. And many who were rich put in much. Then one poor widow came and threw in two mites [very small copper coin], which make a quadrans [a Roman coin]. So He called His disciples to Himself and said to them, “Assuredly, I say to you that this poor widow has put in more than all those who have given to the treasury; for they all put in out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty put in all that she had, her whole livelihood.” - Mark 12:41-44

I just wrote a devotion about salvation not being just a ticket to ride - that is to heaven. There is much more to the Christian life. The rich man had discretionary income - an abundance beyond what he need to live. He gave some of the money that was left - not the first fruits. He could afford to give it away. His trust was in His riches - not God. The widow, on the other hand gave all that she had - because her trust was in God and His providence and provision. God looks at the heart not the pocketbook. The greatest commandment says to have total dependence on Him. 

Then King David said to Ornan, “No, but I will surely buy it for the full price, for I will not take what is yours for the Lord, nor offer burnt offerings with that which costs me nothing. - 1 Chronicles 21:24

King David would not offer something to God that did not cost him something - like the poor widow.

I urge you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your rational 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

It is the same message. Are you willing to abandon your natural affections - what your flesh - your old nature - says is important to cling to if you want to find satisfaction in this life in favor of yielding to God? Can you identify with Job - "though He slays me, yet will I serve Him". Absolute trust in God and his leading and not in your present circumstances. 

I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me. - Galatians 2:20

Do you live by faith or by sight? Have you crucified your flesh? Your answer will not be in words but by the way you live your life and where you put your trust.

The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. And those who are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. - Galatians 5:22-25

The world will know the answer by the fruit that is hanging from your branches.

Shine Bright my friend and glorify God with your life.  

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