April 29

Read: Romans 12:1-2

I appeal to you therefore, brethren, and beg of you in view of all the mercies of God, to make a decisive dedication (Romans 12:1, The Amplified New Testament).

By The Mercies Of God

What are the mercies of God in my life? It takes only a moment of reflection to remind me that all that I am and all that I have came from Him. The food that I eat, the air that I breathe, strength for the day’s work, a mind with which to think, the love of family and friends — all of these are mercies of God.

But I am a Christian, and God’s mercies to me are still more. My sins have been forgiven. I have the fellowship and help of Christian friends in the church. I know the deep joy of communing with God in prayer. For all of these mercies my heart cries, “Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless his holy name” (Psalms 103:1).

It is against this background of blessings that Paul pleads with us to make the decisive dedication of our lives. We are asked to consider all that Christ has done for us and all that He died to accomplish in us; then, in view of our love for Christ, to give ourselves wholly to Him.

Is there any good reason why we should hesitate? But hesitate we do! It is the carnal spirit within which draws back from the will of God. This very hesitation is a part of the evil from which we sorely need deliverance. If we have not yet made this full and decisive surrender, let us allow God’s servant to speak to our hearts”

You have longed for sweet peace, And for faith to increase, And have earnestly, fervently prayed; But you cannot have rest Or be perfectly blest Until all on the altar is laid.

— Elisha A. Hoffman