Prepared to Serve

Being prepared for a special occasion is a wise choice because it lowers stress to a more manageable level. Preparing for a job interview by reviewing potential questions helps reduce anxiety. Knowing how to dress appropriately helps present a favorable first impression. Taking time to rest and sleep is critical to preparation.

God taught the Hebrew people how to consecrate themselves for worship by coming into his presence with a clean heart. Listen to Leviticus 20:8: “Consecrate yourselves and be holy because I am the Lord your God." Consecration includes being committed to God for the purpose of meeting him in worship.

God desires to give you faith so his work of sanctification can set you apart for the purpose he specifically designed for you. God clearly communicates that he is Jehovah-M’Kaddesh, the Lord who sanctifies.  This means to be made clean, forgiven, and dedicated to a new life in Jesus Christ.                            

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With eyes open to the mercies of God, I beg you, my brothers [and sisters], as an act of intelligent worship, to give him your bodies as a living sacrifice, consecrated to him and acceptable by him.

~Romans 12:1 Phillips – New Testament in Modern English 

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Set Apart for Holy Service

When I was an older adolescent visiting friends, I noticed their mother seemed happy and joyful. When I inquired about her joyfulness, she informed me she had received salvation by accepting Jesus as Lord and Savior and that she was returning to church that evening to receive sanctification.

As I listened, she explained to me that sanctification means to be set apart in holy service for Jesus Christ. She and others who had received salvation were to be dedicated and consecrated permanently to Christ. She believed an inward transformation created by the Holy Spirit had resulted in a newness of life that would replace her old sinful self.

Another name for God is Jehovah-M’Kaddesh, “the Lord God who sanctifies" and makes you righteous and holy for now and all eternity. Whether it's an instant transformation or one that gradually takes place, it's important to remember the Holy Spirit sets you apart for a new life in Christ Jesus. Thanks be to God!                       

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May the God of peace make you holy through and through, until the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. He who calls you is utterly faithful and he will finish what he has set out to do.

~1 Thessalonians 5:23-24 Phillips – New Testament in Modern English

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Subscribe to the Attitudes Answers podcast on your favorite podcast platform to hear this and other 2-minute features 3 days every week.