Compiled By: Lisa K Gonzales
From: The Life Application Study Bible
15 With Jesus’ help, let us continually offer our sacrifice of praise to GOD by proclaiming the glory of HIS name. 16 Do not forget to do good and to share what you have with those in need, for such sacrifices are very pleasing to GOD.” ~ Hebrews 13:15-16
Because of their witness to the Messiah, these Jewish Christians, no longer worshiped with other Jews. They considered praise and acts of service their sacrifices – one they could offer anywhere, anytime. This must have reminded them of the prophet Hosea’s words, – “Bring your petitions, and return to the LORD. Say to HIM, ‘Forgive all our sins and graciously receive us, so that we may offer YOU the sacrifice of praise.’” – Hosea 14:2 – Forgiveness begins when we see the destructiveness of sin and the futility of life without GOD. Then we must admit we cannot save ourselves; our only hope is in GOD’s mercy.
When we seek forgiveness, we must recognize that we do not deserve it and therefore cannot demand it. Our appeal must be for GOD’s love and mercy, not for HIS justice. Although we cannot demand forgiveness, we can be confident that we have received it because GOD is gracious and loving and wants to restore us to HIMself, just as HE wanted to restore Israel.
“The sacrifice of praise” refers to thank offerings to GOD. GOD desired real, heartfelt repentance, not merely annual sacrifices. Today a “sacrifice of praise” would include thanking Christ for His sacrifice on the cross and telling others about it. Acts of kindness and sharing are particularly pleasing to GOD, even when they go unnoticed by others.
Forgive my sins LORD and graciously receive me so that I may offer YOU the sacrifice of praise. I see the destructiveness of sin in my life and the futility of life without YOU. I cannot save myself, my only hope is in YOUR love and mercy. – Jesus I ask You to come into my life, I make You my Lord and Savior. Thank You for Your sacrifice on the cross. Thank You for paying the price for my sins.
Photo: Rocky Mountain National Park (Estes Park, Colorado)
Photo By: Lisa K Gonzales
Click on the photo to enlarge
