Consecration

In this week's message, Martin O'Brien explored the theme of Consecration, building on the previous weeks' sermons. He emphasised the importance of consecrating our lives to the Lord, which means devoting or setting apart ourselves for God's worship and service. This act of consecration involves intentionally resetting our lives, making room and space for God, and posturing ourselves to come before Him with devotion.

1. What is Consecration?

- Consecration is the action of making something sacred, dedicated to God. It is a call to bring Jesus back to the center of our lives and refocus on Him when we’ve drifted away.

- Martin referenced 1 Peter 1 & 2 (MSG) to highlight that true consecration leads to a life shaped by God's holiness and filled with His energy and purpose.

2. Posture Before God

- Consecration is about our posture—how we approach God daily. Martin challenged the congregation to create space in their busy lives for this consecration, as it leads to deeper devotion.

- 1 Peter 1:8-9 (MSG) encourages a posture of faith, even when we cannot see God directly, but still trust Him. This faith is the essence of being set apart for God.

3. Hearing from God

- Martin reminded us that when we make space for God, we begin to hear Him more clearly. Do you want to hear God more? Then, devote time and space to listen to Him. This clarity comes from putting Jesus at the center of everything.

4. Living a Life on Fire for God

- 1 Peter 1:13-16 (MSG) describes consecration as being “pulled into a way of life shaped by God’s life.” When we consecrate ourselves, we are set on fire for God, experiencing His presence and power in new and profound ways.

5. Unity and Humility in Consecration

- Consecration brings believers together in love, as shown in 1 Peter 1:22-25 (MSG). It also keeps us humble, reminding us to depend on God and release our egos. When Jesus is at the centre, we are freed to be honest with ourselves and with God.

- Humility before God allows us to experience "the more"—a deeper connection and consciousness of His presence and work in our lives.

6. A Call to Holiness

- 1 Peter 2 calls us to a higher calling as God's holy people, tasked with proclaiming the Good News. This life of consecration reflects the life of Christ—full of goodness, humility, and devotion.

Martin concluded by challenging us to reconsider our posture before God. He encouraged us to make room for devotion, hear from God, and live a life of consecration. God sees our devotion, and when we make Him the center, we tap into His power, love, and purpose for our lives.