July 17, 2018
1 Chronicles 21:24
But King David replied to Araunah, “No, I insist on paying the full price. I will not take for the Lord what is yours, or sacrifice a burnt offering that costs me nothing.” 
New International Version (NIV)
                 David’s personal failures not only affected him but his people.  When the judgment of God fell on the nation, David asked the Lord to stay his hand.  The prophet Gad told David to set up an altar at the threshing floor of Ornan.  This became the place of the Temple which Solomon would build.

                So how did David acquire the land?  Did he take it by eminent domain as Ahab did Naboth’s vineyard?  No.  He offered to pay for it.  But Ornan offered to give it to him for free.  David’s words teach us about worship:   “I will not offer sacrifices which cost me nothing.”

                I suppose it would be easier to give God things which belong to others.  But each of us relates to God individually.  There are things I can give to God that no one else can give.  In view of Jesus’ perfect sacrifice for us, which cost him everything, we are called to offer our bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God as our “true and proper worship” (Romans 12:1).  We can worship with each other but not for each other.  What will we give God today?

Pray with me:  
Father, thank you for the priceless gift of your Son.  In view of your mercy, we offer you our whole lives today.   Please receive this gift as our worship today.  In Jesus’ name.  Amen. 
  This year we focus our Every Day with Jesus readings on Jesus’ story.  With references to Tallowood's Read Through the Bible in 2018 daily reading plan, let's focus our undivided attention on Jesus and follow where he lead. He will not fail. Neither will we!
 
Joyfully, 
 
Duane 
About Duane Archives
Subscribe to our email list.