Devotions on F.I.R.E. Year Twoਨਮੂਨਾ

I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service (Romans 12:1 NKJV).

What is the “therefore” there for in Romans 12:1?

I grew up watching the TV music-video series Schoolhouse Rock, where one song asks, “Conjunction junction, what’s your function?” In Romans 12:1, the word “therefore” works like a conjunction, linking the previous eleven chapters to Paul’s important message in Romans 12:1–2.

Paul has argued that everyone is a sinner, but that God saves sinners through faith. He also explains how we are set apart to serve Him. Paul urges us to offer ourselves completely to God, like being on an altar, and warns us not to conform to the ways of the world (Romans 12:2).

Take a moment and reflect on how you can offer yourself fully to God. Consider areas of your life where you might be conforming to worldly patterns and ask God to help you live out your faith with a renewed commitment.

Employment Point: Dedicate yourself permanently to God’s service.