Making Extraordinary Sacrifices To God

Let’s recap…

1. Whisper praises to God whenever possible—this, too, is a form of worship.
2. Observe nature and glorify God.
3. Play worship songs and sing along.
4. Offer our bodies as a living sacrifice.

5. Lead a holy life as an act of worship.

Psalms 96:9 ‘Worship the Lord in the splendor of his holiness;  tremble before him, all the earth.’

Holiness is key to worship. Too often, we are unaware of God's greatness, which is why many lack the fear of God.

1 Timothy 2:8 ‘Therefore I want the men everywhere to pray, lifting up holy hands without anger or disputing.’
This verse emphasizes the importance of holiness in prayer as well. Prayer and praise are interconnected, and holiness is essential to both.
Always strive to lead a holy life in worship. God instructed the Israelites through Joshua not to follow the ways of the Canaanites. Likewise, we must not adopt the ways of the world. The ways of unbelievers are often deceptive and treacherous. Do not conform to the patterns of this world. From beginning to end, let holiness define your life.

6. Making extraordinary sacrifices to the Lord. 

Genesis 22:5 ‘He said to his servants, “Stay here with the donkey while I and the boy go over there. We will worship and then we will come back to you.”

Abraham was willing to offer his son as a sacrifice to God—an extraordinary act of faith that pleased the Lord.

1 Samuel 1:27-28 ‘I prayed for this child, and the Lord has granted me what I asked of him. So now I give him to the Lord. For his whole life he will be given over to the Lord.” And he worshiped the Lord there.’
Hannah earnestly prayed for a child and was blessed. She kept her promise by dedicating him to God—an extraordinary sacrifice of love.
When you offer something truly precious to God, it becomes an extraordinary sacrifice. The widow who gave all she had in the offering box was noticed by God, and her story is still told today. God was impressed with her faith and generosity.
Extraordinary sacrifice is a profound expression of worship.
Summary
Worship God daily through praise, holiness, and sacrifice. Live a life set apart, avoiding the ways of the world. Offer your best to God, just as Abraham, Hannah, and the widow did. Extraordinary sacrifices please God and are a true act of worship!