DCLM Daily Manna 2023: DCLM Daily Manna 9 February 2024: Transformation, Not Transaction
KEY VERSE: “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.” – (Romans 12:1)
TEXT: Romans 12:1-3
I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.
2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
3 For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.
The story was told of a prominent man who held a top position in the political structure of his country. He was not particularly noteworthy for any exemplary conduct as a public officer, nor did he exhibit instances of striking integrity. He was in fact, reported to have been enmeshed in sordid activities in office and private life; but he went to church sometimes.
On his retirement, he shocked his village church by deciding to build a magnificent cathedral for them. Obviously, this was his way of impressing God, despite his obvious personal failings. The Lord only expects and accepts sacrifices from transformed lives. The best form of sacrifice to God is to offer ourselves – heart, mind and body – to Him. This is so important that Apostle Paul had to plead with the believers in Rome to present themselves as a living sacrifice.
To be acceptable to God, they must not conform to the traditions and practices of the world. Their lives must be transformed, their minds must be renewed and their conduct must express what is good, acceptable and the perfect will of God. Saved by grace, their lives must be characterised by humility and sobriety. Many people miss the mark by engaging in transactions with God, trading what they possess in return for His acceptance and blessings.
They fail to realise that God wants them to first subordinate their desires to the demands of righteous living. This means they must submit to His leading and guidance, willingly honour and obey Him in all things and joyfully serve Him at all times. Their lives must be remarkably different from the customs and traditions of the world; they must remain humble and meek, and allow the Holy Spirit to guide their hearts always.
THOUGHT OF THE DAY: A consecrated life is lost in the love of the Lord and not in the lust of the world.
BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Deuteronomy 28-30
Thank you for studying today’s Daily Manna – Transformation, Not Transaction – by Pastor W.F Kumuyi
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Daily Manna 9 February 2024
