First, our next YouVersion reading plan begins tomorrow, May 7. Click here to join us!
In order to burn bright, we must be living sacrifices as stated in Romans 12:1. Now I get that the word sacrifice is not happy or even pleasant to think about. You’re talking to the girl who squirms when reading in the Old Testament about the animal sacrifices and the blood being poured out intentionally on the alter. I don’t even like hunting and all that follows once an animal has been shot. I could go on but for the sake of our stomachs, I’ll redirect . . .
While a variety of things may come to mind when reading the word ‘sacrifice’, the meaning that truly ignites my soul is our acknowledging that we need less of ourselves and more of Jesus. If we are the ‘living sacrifice’, our Lord’s open, strong, loving hands are the altar. We’re going to jump all in, seek Him first, replace lies with His truth, honor our bodies as His temple, and realize His love and grace bring true freedom. The phrase ‘Spirit-led’ might sound churchy, but I’ve learned ‘me-led’ is exhausting and doesn’t have much impact. By pressing ‘pause’ to step back, get out of His way, and ask, ‘Spirit, lead me in this,’ we can move forward with greater peace and passion.
When we pursue the eternal rather than the worldly, sacrificing our immediate desires for His righteousness, our heart, soul, strength, and mind are transformed and renewed in a freedom like no other. When we let God refine us and burn us holy, our light cannot be put out!
Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
Romans 12:1-2
The dictionary defines the word shine as ‘to reflect light AND perform well’. Culture has shifted the pure meaning of shine to striving. When Jesus used the word ‘shine’, it was in regards to reflecting our God. But it’s now super tricky to reflect only Him and not the world. Plus, in a world that celebrates performing well and striving to succeed, I’d rather shift my focus.
So instead let’s burn. The definition of ‘burn’ is to be consumed, to contain gas or light, or the spiritual definition would be to be filled with the fire of the Holy Spirit.
As we look at Romans 12:1-2 and Paul’s reference to being a living sacrifice, we must fully grasp and live in the grace and truth of Jesus. Romans 1-11 share the Gospel, the story of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection, the power of His love for ALL people! It is because of His mercy, grace, and truth that Romans 12:1 begins with ‘therefore . . . in light of His mercy . . . ‘ For a fun review of the good news of Jesus, play this song!
As we journey on, desiring to burn bright, I’d love to share these various resources with you. To be transformed by the renewing of our mind, let’s fill our minds with the things of the Lord!
Music – Holy Barre #00 & Burn Bright
Workouts – Burn Bright Playlist on YouTube
YouVersion Bible Reading Plans –
Holy Barre 