Well-run organizations say thanks to workers in a variety of ways. They may include paying tuition, creating a wall of fame, posting achievements, having a dress down day, an off-campus event, special parking space, work from home, donation to a charity, bring your pet day, breakfast or lunch treat, and birthday recognition. But how do we say thanks to God for the many blessings He bestows, especially the amazing gift of eternal life? The Apostle Paul spells out the most appropriate way. In Romans chapter 12, he challenges us to surrender our entire selves to God—our bodies, mind, emotions, and will. He writes, “Dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice—the kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him. Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person.” To Paul, the correct way to respond to God’s amazing gift of salvation is by genuine worship. This involves the mind, emotions, and will—yielding total access and control of one’s life to God.
