Let Go of the Reins
Today's Scripture
"And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice—the kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him." Romans 12:1 NLT
Thoughts for Today
Through the years before Jesus died on the cross, God called the Israelites to offer animals as sacrifices for their sin. These sacrifices were offered repeatedly at regular time intervals. Then Jesus came and gave his own life on the cross to pay the ultimate everlasting sacrifice for our sins. (Hebrews 9:11-14)
We no longer have to offer sin sacrifices. When we accept Jesus as our Savior and make him Lord of our lives, our sins are forgiven and Jesus clothes us in his righteousness. But he does call us to be a living sacrifice by surrendering our lives to him. He wants us to turn control over to his care. He views our total submission as worship.
Consider this …
Most of us like to feel in control. The thought of turning control over to someone else, even God, might seem frightening—or just unappealing. What we need to remember is that God is a merciful and compassionate God. He wants what is best for us—and only he knows what that really is. He is all-knowing and all-powerful. We aren't. How much better to submit to his control, to trust his plan, than to stick to our "I can do it myself" attitude.
Are you struggling with a temptation … a problem … a challenge right now? Are you willing to turn it over to God, submitting completely to his plan?
Prayer
Father, I thank you for Jesus. I thank you that my sins are forgiven. I have committed my life to you … and claim to make you Lord … but so many times I try to take control again. I know this shows a lack of trust in you. Please forgive me. May my body—all that I am—be a living sacrifice to you. In Jesus' name …
These thoughts were drawn from …
Stepping into Freedom: A Christ-Centered Twelve-Step Programby Jimmy Ray Lee, D.Min. This twelve-step program is suggested for use in support groups, recovery groups and home groups. It offers help for anyone struggling with a life-controlling problem like drug addiction, alcoholism, sexual addiction, gambling or workaholism. Note: This curriculum was written especially for small groups and we encourage people to use it that way. However, it can also be used effectively as a personal study for individuals or couples.
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