“Through him then let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that acknowledge his name. Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God” (Hebrews 13:15-16, English Standard Version).

While Christians do not offer sacrifices to earn our salvation, God expects us to offer sacrifices that express our faith, love, gratitude, and commitment to Him. Hebrews 13:15-16 calls us to two of those sacrifices: the sacrifice of our lips and of our liberality.

The passage above urges us to offer up a sacrifice of praise to God. We can think of praise in two ways. For many Christians, the most obvious meaning is joyful singing in worship (praise songs). Some days, this can be a sacrifice. You might arrive at church in a bad mood. A bad night of sleep, an argument with your spouse while getting ready to go to church, or horrendous traffic can make “Praise the Lord!” the last thing you want to say. Financial problems and job stress can distract us until we are so busy thinking about our problems throughout the week that we have a hard time paying attention to the church service. At these times, you might not feel like singing the happy, upbeat worship songs that begin the church service. Sing anyway! By singing joyful songs when your heart feels heavy, you are declaring, “God is good all the time, no matter what my present circumstances are.” In song, cast your cares upon the Lord, for He cares for you (1 Peter 5:7).

However, the writer might have had a different sacrifice of the lips in mind. Our testimony can be a sacrifice. It can be a sacrifice to share the Gospel with others. We risk rejection or ridicule. We might be embarrassed if someone seems genuinely interested but asks questions that we cannot answer. However, people need the Lord. They are lost without Jesus. What is the risk of personal discomfort when compared with the possibility that the other person may spend eternity in hell?

The other sacrifice also extends a blessing to others. I called it a sacrifice of our liberality above. This is not “liberal” in the political sense. It is generosity, freely giving what we have to those who need it. Hebrews 13:16 urges us to do good and share what we have.

We might sacrifice our possessions. Giving to the needy, supporting ministries and organizations that provide for the poor, or donating food or grocery money to someone who is going through a difficult time are ways we can show our love for God and our neighbors. Sometimes, God may call us to surrender some of the luxuries we enjoy so that we can assist people who lack basic necessities.

We can also sacrifice our time for others. In one of my ministries at church, I visit regularly with an elderly man in a nursing home. Some days, it would be easier to stay home. I hate driving in bad weather (God never consults with me when deciding when to send rain to Long Island), and I might be tired after a morning at church. Still, it is worth it, especially when I know he is grateful that there is someone who makes him feel connected with the family of God.

You might not have money to give to the poor. Maybe you can give time to those who need it. You can visit a shut-in. You can invite someone who is going through a crisis out for coffee or brunch, just so they do not feel alone. Be present. Show them that someone cares. Let them see God’s love through you.

We might be tempted to just pray for these people, but often that is not enough. God may be calling you to be the answer to another person’s prayers.

How can you show your love for God and for those around you through word and deed this week? Share your thoughts in the comments field below.

Copyright © 2025 Michael E. Lynch. All rights reserved.