Text:
1 Kings 3: 4-12
Memory Verse:
“Now the king went to Gibeon to sacrifice there, for that was
the great high place: Solomon offered a thousand burnt offerings on that altar”
(1 Kings 3:4).
To sacrifice is to give up something of value. It is an act of offering something precious to God. A sacrifice is offered in order to establish, maintain, or restore a right relationship of a human being to the sacred order.
Solomon understood the importance of sacrificing to God. He offered a thousand burnt offerings on an altar at Gibeon, the great high place. Pleased, God asked him what he wanted. Solomon asked for an understanding heart and the ability to discern between good and evil. God was again pleased with Solomon’s request. He gave him not only what he asked for, but added riches and honour, and made him the greatest king of all times. Abraham also built an altar and was set to offer his dearly loved only son, Isaac, but for the LORD who restrained him (Genesis 22:9 & 10). God then affirmed
Abraham’s fear of Him, evident in his obedience to His command to sacrifice his only son. God promised him that his descendants would be like the stars of heaven and as the sand on the seashore (Genesis 22:16-18). We are the seed of Abraham today through Christ, and heirs according to the promise (Galatians 3:29).
What is your sacrifice? What are you giving to the Lord? Today, we no longer offer rams and bulls on the altar to God. We can, however, constantly render Him our sacrifice of praise, worship, time, money, talent, energy, earthly possessions etc. to ensure His kingdom is advanced. As you do this, God will bless you abundantly.
Prayer Points:
1. Father, I offer You the totality of my life.
2. May I experience the blessings that follow true sacrifice unto You, O Lord.
