Devotion's by Deborah

Devotion 1-24-24, Hebrews 13:15- "Through Him then, let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that give thanks to His name." At times we wonder and decide we are not sure about God's will. Are we on the right track? Do we know what God wants? And, at times we need to pray and wait, patiently, for His will, His plan to unfold. But, there are a few things about which it is not necessary to pray at all. It is God's will that all people be saved. This is why Jesus became flesh, died, and resurrected. Jesus' sacrifice was for the purpose of salvation. It is God's will that we love one another. Jesus told His disciples in John 15:12- "This is my commandment, that you love one another ..." We are commanded to love, even our enemies or perhaps especially our enemies. It is God's will that we ask for wisdom. James 1:5 says, "If any of you lacks wisdom let him ask God..." So, some things are clearly God's will. Hebrews encourages us in another. We are always, without hesitation, to "continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God." Often, in the middle of problems, praising God is the last thing on our minds. But we find, throughout the Bible, this is just exactly what is required in the middle of the problem. It is called a sacrifice because it is not what we feel like doing. It is a sacrifice, an offering, in spite of the mess. As we begin to praise God in the middle of the problem, our focus changes. It moves from self and problems, toward God and eternity. Suddenly, though the problem still exists, the emphasis and possibilities seem to change. Praising God is God's will. Praising God refocuses everything. Praising God moves our eyes to Him; then, we may give thanks to Him and receive wisdom and guidance from Him. It is all about Him, not the problem. Offer God your sacrifice of praise, giving thanks and praises to His wonderful, powerful name!