Hebrews 13:15–16 (KJV) — “By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name. But to do good and to communicate forget not: for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.”
Exhortation
In the Old Testament, sacrifices were offered on altars with animals and offerings. But under the New Covenant, God invites us to a deeper, living sacrifice, one that flows from our hearts and daily lives. Hebrews 13 reminds us that praise and giving are sacrifices God truly honors.
The writer calls praise a sacrifice because it is not always easy. Praising God when life is good feels natural, but praising Him continually, even in difficulty, requires faith. When we choose gratitude over complaining, worship over worry, and thanksgiving over fear, we are offering God something precious: the fruit of our lips. Heaven takes notice of such praise.
Verse 16 moves from our lips to our lives. God is not pleased with words alone; He delights when praise is expressed through action. “To do good and to communicate” speaks of generosity, kindness, and sharing what we have with others. Whether it is time, resources, encouragement, or love, giving becomes an act of worship when done for God’s glory.
These sacrifices may seem small to us, but Scripture assures us that God is well pleased with them. He does not despise sincere praise or humble giving. When offered through Jesus Christ, they rise before God as a sweet-smelling offering. Every thankful word and every generous act matters to Him.
Let us therefore live lives that continually honor God, lifting our voices in praise and extending our hands in love. These are sacrifices heaven celebrates.
Prayers
- Father, I thank You for the gift of salvation through Jesus Christ. Teach me to offer the sacrifice of praise continually, even when it is not easy.
- Lord, help my lips to produce fruit that glorifies Your name. Let gratitude and worship flow from my heart daily.
- Give me a generous spirit, O God. Help me to do good and to freely give, knowing that such sacrifices please You.
- May my life be a living offering, expressing praise through my words and love through my actions, in Jesus’ name. Amen.
