Spiritual Sacrifices

Continuous offerings from believers to God alone constitute spiritual sacrifices (Hebrews 13:16). Our spiritual sacrifices ascend to God in the same way as incense smoke did in the Old Testament's temple (Psalm 141:2; Revelation 5:8). These include the prayers, adoration, will, body, time, resources, skills, and spiritual gifts of the believer.

Because the incense was constantly burning, it follows that we should always pray (Luke 18:1; 1Thessalonians 5:17). Another spiritual sacrifice that supports a believer's prayer is fasting (Daniel 9:3). God made us to praise Him, and as such, we must consistently make the "offering of praise" to Him (Hebrews 13:15). Even though it's a constant battle, we should do what Jesus did and submit to the Father's will (Luke 22:42). (Romans 7:18-20).

Given by God, our skills and spiritual abilities ought to be used for the edification of the church, the work of the ministry, and the perfection of the saints (Ephesians 4:7,12). Our treasures (financial/material resources) go toward supporting the ministers of God, the work of the kingdom on earth, the spiritual sacrifices to be offered to God, and the needs of those who are less fortunate (Philippians 4:18; Proverbs 19:17; Galatians 6:10).