But there is no true relationship with God that does not include the relinquishing of things of value, in an intelligent manner, in honor to God. This is not a plea for us to sacrifice just for the sake of sacrifice, or for ascetic self-denial. Giving should be for a purpose that is God-honoring. Nor do we deny that salvation and the forgiveness of sin is a free gift from God. We cannot pay the cost of salvation, but we must pay the cost of devotion.
True devotion involves real giving, whether it is time, service, energy, or money.
This is true in friendship, marriage, family, and citizenship, and it is true with God. First printed in The American Night Watch Newsletter, Volume IV, Part 2, February 1996. Copyright 1999 Sterling M. Durgy. All Rights Reserved. The American Night Watch is a trademark of the Christian ministry of Sterling M. Durgy.