A Sacrifice of Praise

 

“We have an altar from which those who serve the tabernacle have no right to eat.  For the bodies of those animals, whose blood is brought into the sanctuary by the high priest for sin, are burned outside the camp.  Therefore Jesus also, that He might sanctify the people with His own blood, suffered outside the gate.  Therefore let us go forth to Him, outside the camp, bearing His reproach.  For here we have no continuing city, but we seek the one to come.  Therefore by Him let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His name.  But do not forget to do good and to share, for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.” – Hebrews 13:10-16

Jesus was the last bloody sacrifice God would accept.  The sacrifice He desires from us today is the praise of our lips. 

I had a conversation one night this past week with a dear daughter of God (you know who you are my friend J) and we both gave praise to God for the things He has brought us through in life.  He has set both our feet on solid rock, and just taken care of us in ways that are unmistakably Him.  It was a spontaneous conversation where we both just let our hearts pour out what He put inside – praise for Him. 

Nothing feels as good as reflecting on the good God has placed in your life, and sharing it with others.  It’s like bragging on your children – but better.  It’s like telling the love you have for your spouse – but stronger.  It brings more joy than singing the most beautiful song.  It’s the only time you will empty what is in your heart only to have it feel as if it is full to overflowing.

Do you have a praise to give God?  I’d love to hear it.  He tells us to “do good and to share, for with such sacrifices God is well pleased”.  We grow in faith knowing what God has done for others.  Praise to God is seed planting.