The Overflow: Peace and Generosity

Day 320: Hebrews 13:1-25

“Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise—the fruit of lips that openly profess his name. And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.” - Hebrews‬ ‭13:15-16‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Jesus’ sacrifice was a setup for our salvation, and all that flows out of this regeneration is to be beautiful. We are now freed to offer sacrifices as an overflow, a response to the sweet saving.

SACRIFICE OF PRAISE // This is the only time this word for praise (ainesis) appears in this way throughout the New Testament. Nida and Louw define it as to speak of the excellence. Regular praising should come naturally from our mouths! Sunday mornings, at work, when we are driving, working out, walking to class—it is appropriate at all times.

SACRIFICE OF GENEROSITY // Jesus met our greatest need. He saved our souls and gave us new hearts. Meeting the needs of others is an obvious response. What plan do you have in place to ensure you never forget to share? Our finances are something we will always be prone to guard and keep exclusively for ourselves, but Psalm 24:1 sings that it all belongs to God; we are just the managers.

Here's the thing about sacrifices. They hurt, stretch, and push us into places we wouldn't have defaulted toward on our own. Praise and generosity are acts of worship that we will never regret offering.

Jesus has done the heavy lifting, and now we get to respond to his great work on the cross.

One more thought. Think about the most joyful Christians you know. The ones that come to my mind are always praising and the ones you can’t keep from giving. It is the overflow of a thankful heart.