Lent Day 4

The Apostle Paul often relied on the churches for provision. He considered himself blessed to have received abundantly everything he needed from the church at Philippi. This offering was not merely for his own sake, but he reminds them that it is a fragrant offering and an acceptable sacrifice that pleases God. This imagery points back to the Old Testament sacrificial system when flesh was burned on the brazen altar, often with incense or fragrant herbs. But it is not the fragrance that pleases God. The people's obedience and willingness to sacrifice for the good of each other that pleases God.

PRAYER: Lord Jesus, we pray that our sacrifices during Lent would be acceptable sacrifices that please God as we sacrifice, not merely to hinder the flesh but to bless others and build up Christ’s Church. Amen.