Offering

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It is true, at times and various parts of our walk with the Lord, there will be "pain in the offering." Maybe you're thinking, "Nice! That sounds super fun, sign me up!" I don't mean to come across as sarcastic, but seriously. Why would anyone willingly sign up for pain? Love and gratitude will compel us to do things we would not ordinary do or want to do if left to make decisions based solely on our feelings, our flesh, our own will. But truly love, gratitude, a sense of responsibility and living for something and someone bigger than ourselves motivates and drives us to do things that can be uncomfortable at times.  

 So today, if you find that there is pain in the "offering" or it feels like an increase in "sacrifices," please be encouraged. If we experience or feel pain and angst or if we are struggling and wrestling with something, that is not an indicator that you are somehow in the wrong, in disobedience or living sin. It most definitely does not suggest God's displeasure towards us. If we abide in Christ and live by truth according to the scripture, the "opposition" we may feel actually may be a good indicator that we are indeed following after Jesus and his ways, the narrow path. 

 Jesus understands the narrow path. He also knows and experienced firsthand "pain in the offering." He sacrificially lived and breathed and walked this earth all because of love and the unity he shared with his Father. Jesus is the perfect image and example for us of one who is laser focused. And through him, we can live and walk as he did. 

 So for wherever you are in your faith journey, let's continually keep the proper perspective and with faith continue to move forward in obedience and trust in our Lord. It's worth it. 

Therefore, through him let us continually offer up to God a sacrifice of praise, that is, the fruit of lips that confess his name. Hebrews 13:15 

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