JAN 18

Romans 12:17
Memorise Luke 17:10
“We have done that which was our duty to do”

ARE YOU RENDERING A REASONABLE SERVICE?

Something that is reasonable is that which is fair, appropriate and within good sound reason. In a given situation, most logical and sensible people would come to similar conclusions. They would apply rational, equitable and just logic to their decision making, and come out with a verdict that would be pleasing to most.

When discussing the service that we are supposed to render to the Lord, Paul here in Romans 12:1 also appeals to our logic and fair reasoning. He begins with the phrase “I beseech you therefore”. He argues that in light of all that we have learnt from Romans 1-11 about the salvation that we have, it really ought to illicit a response from us. He calls us to remember the mercies of God, and all that He has done to save us, to then think of what we ought to do in return. If we are reasonable and fair and sensible people, we would realize that it is such a huge debt that we owe to God, and nothing, not even our whole life would be able to repay him. After all, Christ, though He is God, gave Himself up to live as a man, and then die. But die for what? For us, these unworthy, sinful rebels who were enemies of God, who can now be made righteous by His blood. What an amazing sacrifice!

Therefore, it is most reasonable, and really not too much to ask, that we would present our whole lives, our entire being, to be a living sacrifice that is holy and acceptable unto God. Just as Christ gave himself for us, now that we are saved, we ought to be willing to dedicate our whole life to Him. Every aspect of our life, no longer be lived for self, but as an acceptable sacrifice to God. Note that it means that we must serve God on His terms and not our own. It must be holy and acceptable to God, and not ourselves. We must ensure that the service that we render pleases Him, and not ourselves or anyone else. Only then, can it be considered a reasonable service – appropriate to us, and also appropriate to God.

Dear teen, do you realize the debt that you owe to the God who saved you? Are you living your life for God or for yourself? Do you think your life is one characterized by holiness, and one that would be acceptable unto God?

Thought: Was it reasonable that God would die for me?
Prayer: Lord, may you help me to understand the extent of Christ’s sacrifice for me, and in turn to present my body as a living sacrifice that is holy and acceptable unto God.