Giving Worship... The X Factor Devotional - Day Three - January 13, 2010

“The people rejoiced at the willing response of their leaders, for they had given freely and wholeheartedly to the LORD. David the king also rejoiced greatly.”
1 Chronicles 29:9

First Chronicles 29:10-20 is one of the greatest expressions of worship found in God’s Word.  Read this prayer in its entirety and reflect on the essence of true stewardship:  the realization that God owns everything.

After you have read and reflected on this passage, take some time to consider the significance of being in partnership with God.  Recognize Him not only as the senior partner but also as the sole financial backer of your life’s venture.  David was completely captivated by the reality of this, and as a result, he became unreservedly focused on building the temple for God’s glory.  His leadership influenced others to contribute in the same spirit of sacrifice and praise.  See 1 Chronicles 29:9, above.

Relative to your situation, plan a worship time alone, with your family, or a small group of friends that includes the following three features of true worship.

1. Gratitude:  The recognition that all we have has come from His hand.  We are but channels through which the work of God is carried out.  When one’s life is lived primarily in consideration of Him, it is less likely that what He provides for Kingdom work will be squandered on self-gratification.

2. Sacrifice:  David said, "I will not sacrifice to the LORD my God burnt offerings that cost me nothing" (2 Samuel 24:24).  Sacrifice always involves cost.  It has little to do with how much one gives.  What is more important is the measure of one’s sacrifice.  Did it truly cost us something?  When it does, then we have set aside something and made it sacred.

3. Praise:  The distinction between gratitude and praise is this—Gratitude is appreciation for what God has done while praise is appreciation for who God is.  David was not only giving thanks in his prayer, he was expressing praise.  "Now, our God, we give you thanks, and praise your glorious name" (1 Chronicles 29:13).  As you conclude your worship time, recognize God for the Provider He is and commit yourself to becoming a good steward of His provision.

Prayer Focus: Seriously, I bet the first thing you think of when you hear “stewardship” is, “He wants us to give an offering.”  And you’re right… an “offering of your time.”  Today, tonight… sometime over the next 24 hours… give God a sacrificial offering of your time, for real.  Whether it’s 10 minutes or 2 hours.  Go above and beyond for Him.