Sacrificial Gifts

Last Sunday I spoke at Calvary Chapel South Bay, and after my message, I greeted some wonderful people in the church foyer. I met Gracie who struggles with rheumatoid arthritis – her daughter told me that Gracie is a seamstress and excels in making wedding dresses. When I looked at her gnarled fingers, I thought of how much it cost Gracie to painstakingly sew each dress. Her limitations make each gown all the more precious (and think how honored each bride feels). In the same way, when we offer praise to God in the midst of pain and problems, it makes our worship all the more precious and valuable in His sight. Gracie’s life beautifully illustrates Hebrews 13:14-16, “Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise — the fruit of lips that confess his name.” Today, if you’re hurting, give a sacrifice of praise to the Lord – Jesus will be gloriously honored because he knows your praise ‘cost’ something!