DAY 26 – Two Liberating Words: "Thank You" | Firm Foundation Devotional
Hebrews 13:12, Therefore Jesus also, that He might sanctify the people with His own blood, suffered outside the gate. 13 Therefore let us go forth to Him, outside the camp, bearing His reproach. 14 For here we have no continuing city, but we seek the one to come. 15 Therefore by Him let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of our lips, [d]giving thanks to His name. 16 But do not forget to do good and to share, for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.
Two of the most liberating words in our language are: “Thank you.”
Just as John taught that love is shown in deeds more than words, thanksgiving is always connected to what we offer or give. That’s why we celebrate birthdays with cards and gifts, because we wish to say “Thank you” for someone’s life. That’s why we celebrate Christmas with gift giving and honoring our Savior. It’s all about saying “Thank You” to the Lord for the gift of life and new life in Christ.
God trained His people Israel to the importance of giving thanks by instituting the Law of Peace Offerings, also called "Thanksgiving Offerings." Many things in the Old Testament that began as a law were designed to train and develop people to recognize the grace of God. The law was a “schoolmaster” to led us to Christ. (Gal. 3:24)
Leviticus 22:29, And when you offer a sacrifice of thanksgiving to the LORD, offer it of your own free will.
While the Law mandated many things to be done, there was the greater motivation of free will. This motivation for serving and giving came from the heart. It looked forward to the New Covenant under grace.
The principle of free will and being thankful in our service to God is best practice for New Testament believers:
1 Thessalonians 5:17-19, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. Do not quench the Spirit.
Hebrews 13:15-16, Therefore by Him let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His name. But do not forget to do good and to share, for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.
Today, we don't need a law to mandate our service and thanksgiving to God. Because of his love and grace, we don't have to be told to serve and be thankful. We are more than willing!
Action Item(s) Based on Understanding:
