In the time period that Peter wrote these words, the people would have been very familiar with making sacrifices—usually animals—to a deity. Christians no longer need to make redemptive animal sacrifices because Jesus’ blood shed on Calvary covers our sins. However, making spiritual sacrifices shows the world we’ve been changed. Spiritual sacrifices can include serving others, worshiping, remaining committed and faithful to Him above all else, praying, praising and thanking Him…in other words, whatever is intended to please our Father. For our sacrifices to be acceptable, they’re presented not from a sense of duty, rote habit, or to earn earthly accolades, but to glorify the One who saved us. Think of the child who grumbles while cleaning her room, thinking only of the allowance she’ll lose if she doesn’t do it, compared to the one who performs the task with a joyful spirit, happy to please her parents with her obedience. Our spiritual sacrifices give evidence that we truly love the Lord with our heart, soul, mind, and strength.
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