"Living Wide Open for God" Part ONE
Do you know someone who lives life wide open? They are in high gear all the time. Whatever it is, they are going to be very excited, and energetic for it. I've known people like this. In basketball, it's the athlete pressing full-court, and diving into the stands for a loose ball. In life, it's the individual going above and beyond what they are asked or required to do. I like people like that. Honestly, I strive to live that way, but many times fall short.
Sadly, many people I've seen this way are not even saved, and I've thought to myself, "if only they could use that energy and excitement for the Lord's work." Paul is writing to those saved in the Church of Rome in this letter, begging them to live "wide-open" for God. The word "beseech", has the picture of Paul on his knees in a begging posture. He's asking them to live as a "living sacrifice." Sacrifice is a common theme in the Bible. In the Old Testament, believers would bring a lamb as a sacrifice for their sins. Jesus is the Sacrifice for our sins. Paul, is telling them that they should live their lives as a current, everyday, living sacrifice.
I think a lot of people would say they live for God, and they do give some of their life to God. But honestly, it is just a portion of their life, living for God is not their whole life. It is very much like education has had a part of their life, and their social life is an aspect, and exercising, and then there's the "God-part" of their life. It's not everything - it's just a portion. When you sacrifice, it means giving everything. Your social life, your personal life, your job, your spouse, your family - everything is done with God in mind, trying to bring Him glory. Everything reflects that you are living for God and His glory. He is the end of all, not just a means along the way.
We are not all called into full-time ministry, but we are all called to be full-time Christians. Our lives at home, work, and socially should be reflective of our God. But this first begins in our walk with Him. When was the last time you read your Bible? When was the last time you prayed more than ten minutes? Do you long to spend time in God's presence?
Paul, says living a life of "sacrifice" is reasonable - it just makes sense. God has given us one life. What are going to do with it? Missionary Ron White said, "You can do two things with your life. You can spend it, or you can waste it, but you cannot save it." God has given us life so that we can give it back to Him in service and in glorifying Him. This passage says we do so by living lives that are "holy" and "acceptable" unto Him. The word "Holy" means pure, morally blameless, and set apart. Am I living a Holy life? Are you? Does your actions, language, social interactions, dress - reflect your Holy God?
God has given us one life. Let's not waste it. Let's live it in obedience and honor to our Lord. Live wide open for God!
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