The Offering God Requires

...“No one may appear before me [God] without an offering. [Exodus 34.20b]

How quickly we approach God in prayer at times without as much as a "hello" much less an offering of any kind.

What kind of offering does God require?

What kind of offering DOES God require?

While it is a fact that prior to Jesus' advent much was required to come before God (ref. "Details..." prior day's discussions), it is now a fact  that much more can be given subsequent to Jesus' time on earth.

Before Christ, much sacrifice and self-abasement was necessary to approach Almighty God.  This was because God Himself declared that without blood, sin was unforgiven.  Every offering brought to God cost someone something.  The shortcoming of this system was that no offering brought before God even remotely displaced the sinfulness for which it was meant to pay for.  At best, it was never enough.

When New Testament believers approach God in the Name of Jesus, there is a different situation.  Jesus, Who was entirely perfect, gave all - and gave all on behalf of any and everyone who would but confess faith in His feat.  So, although one may approach God emptyhanded, if his or her faith and offering to God is the perfect gift of confession in Christ, then God is more than just appeased - He is completely satisfied that redemption is complete and we are complete and secure in Him.

I have said a lot here... I think I need to stop and think about this myself!

Father, because of Christ I approach You.  Be glorified with this offering that Christ is in me and I come to You offering Him (in the form of my life) back to You.