Transformation.

One of the common and biblical acts of sacrifice in Christianity is the act of giving offerings, but it amazes that most and many of these sacrifices are done as mere acts of service, most times given as contributions, and so they lack what will make them attractive to God.

A Biblical example for this is Cain.

If you’re like me who was taught the story of Cain and Abel from childhood, you probably believed Cain’s offering was rejected by God because it was not “good enough” compared to Abel’s.

However, God rejected Cain’s offering because His heart was ungodly, and this was revealed in the actions he took after his sacrifice was rejected;

The Bible records that Cain was angry. A godly heart will not get angry, rather it will ask God questions humbly and seek forgiveness for the unacceptable offering.

Moreso, he didn’t stop there, he also went ahead to kill his brother Abel despite God’s warnings and answered God rudely when questioned later on.

[1] Beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.

[2] And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

Romans 12:1-2 (KJV)

The scripture above stated about presenting ones body (i.e oneself) as a “Living sacrifice” (being dedicatedly to God), “Holy” (without blame) and “Acceptable” (a reasonable, true and proper act of Service).

No individual can do this without his or her mind first becoming transformed by being renewed.

Renewing one’s mind comes by consistent study of the Scriptures, understanding and applying it, and this brings a noticeable change in one’s life where one is being transformed from old his/her old patterns to a new way of life.

A person’s mind is the source of thoughts and actions. It is the meeting point of the spirit and the body. The prevailing forces (Either God or the devil) in one’s mind determines all their thought and actions. If God is not the one ruling an individual’s heart, they cannot live a life that pleases God, and as such, their offerings become rejected.

Time reveals all things, and humans can’t pretend forever. There are moments when issues will tempt one to react in the flesh, and then it will be clear who rules your heart by the actions you take.

And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

Romans 12:2 (KJV)

Seeking God so your heart becomes like His is the best decision a child of God can make.

When one gives a sacrificial offering, God doesn’t physically spend the money but He does takes the glory associated. And there’s nothing more glorious than God having the heart of a man, totally devoted.