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Consecration to God is a fundamental principle in the Christian faith that signifies a believer’s dedication to the Lord. It is the act of setting oneself apart for God’s purpose, relinquishing worldly attachments, and committing to a life of holiness and obedience. Throughout the Bible, God calls His people to be consecrated, emphasizing the necessity of living a life distinct from the patterns of the world. This article explores the meaning, process, and significance of consecration, drawing from biblical examples and teachings from the New King James Version (NKJV).
The Meaning of Consecration
The term “consecration” originates from the Hebrew word “qadash,” which means “to be set apart” or “to be holy.” In the New Testament, the Greek word “hagios” carries a similar meaning, referring to something or someone dedicated to God’s service. Consecration involves a deliberate decision to surrender one’s life, will, and desires to God, seeking His purpose above all else.
God’s command to be consecrated is clear in Scripture:
- “For I am the Lord your God. You shall therefore consecrate yourselves, and you shall be holy; for I am holy” (Leviticus 11:44).
- “Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth” (John 17:17).
Consecration is not a one-time event but a continuous process of spiritual growth and renewal, requiring faith, obedience, and dependence on God.
Biblical Examples of Consecration
Abraham: A Life of Total Surrender
Abraham exemplifies consecration through his willingness to leave his homeland and follow God’s call without knowing his destination. His ultimate test came when God commanded him to sacrifice his son Isaac:
- “And He said, ‘Do not lay your hand on the lad, or do anything to him; for now I know that you fear God, since you have not withheld your son, your only son, from Me'” (Genesis 22:12).
Abraham’s faith and obedience demonstrated a life fully devoted to God.
The Levites: A Tribe Set Apart for God
The Levites were chosen to serve God exclusively in the tabernacle and later in the temple. Their consecration involved a distinct lifestyle and responsibilities:
- “Thus you shall separate the Levites from among the children of Israel, and the Levites shall be Mine” (Numbers 8:14).
Their example teaches that consecration involves service and devotion to God’s work.
Jesus Christ: The Perfect Example of Consecration
Jesus Christ is the ultimate model of consecration. His life on earth was fully dedicated to fulfilling the will of the Father:
- “Then I said, ‘Behold, I have come—In the volume of the book it is written of Me—To do Your will, O God’” (Hebrews 10:7).
His complete obedience, even to the point of death on the cross, exemplifies the highest level of consecration.
The Process of Consecration
Surrendering to God
True consecration begins with surrendering everything to God. This means giving up personal ambitions, sinful desires, and worldly priorities to follow His will:
- “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service” (Romans 12:1).
Seeking Holiness
Holiness is an essential aspect of consecration. God calls His people to live pure and righteous lives, separate from the corruption of the world:
- “Pursue peace with all people, and holiness, without which no one will see the Lord” (Hebrews 12:14).
Holiness is not about perfection but about being set apart for God’s purpose.
Devotion to Prayer and the Word
Consecration requires a commitment to prayer and studying God’s Word. Through prayer, believers align their hearts with God’s will, and through Scripture, they gain wisdom and guidance:
- “Your word I have hidden in my heart, that I might not sin against You” (Psalm 119:11).
A consecrated life is nurtured by regular communication with God and a deep understanding of His truth.
Separation from Worldliness
Living a consecrated life means avoiding sinful influences and embracing godly living:
- “Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him” (1 John 2:15).
This does not mean isolation from society but rather a distinct way of living that reflects God’s values.
The Purpose and Benefits of Consecration
A Closer Relationship with God
Consecration draws believers into a deeper intimacy with God. As they dedicate their lives to Him, they experience His presence and guidance more profoundly:
- “Draw near to God and He will draw near to you” (James 4:8).
Empowerment for Service
A consecrated life is one that is empowered by the Holy Spirit for ministry and service. God equips those who are fully devoted to Him to accomplish His work:
- “But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth” (Acts 1:8).
Spiritual Protection
Living a life dedicated to God provides spiritual protection against the enemy’s attacks. God shields those who walk in obedience to Him:
- “The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer; My God, my strength, in whom I will trust” (Psalm 18:2).
Eternal Rewards
The ultimate reward of a consecrated life is eternal life with Christ. Those who remain faithful will receive the crown of life:
- “Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life” (Revelation 2:10).
Challenges of Consecration
Consecration is not without challenges. The world, the flesh, and the devil all seek to draw believers away from their commitment to God. Some common struggles include:
- Temptations of the world: The pursuit of wealth, fame, and pleasure can hinder consecration.
- Persecution and opposition: Standing for God’s truth may lead to rejection or persecution.
- Personal weaknesses: Human nature often resists full surrender to God’s will.
Despite these challenges, God provides strength to those who remain committed to Him:
- “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:9).
Conclusion
Consecration to God is a vital aspect of the Christian life. It involves surrendering to His will, pursuing holiness, and dedicating oneself to His service. While the journey of consecration may be challenging, it leads to a deeper relationship with God, spiritual empowerment, and eternal rewards. By following the example of Jesus Christ and biblical figures who lived consecrated lives, believers can fulfill their divine calling and bring glory to God. Each day presents an opportunity to renew one’s commitment to the Lord, embracing the privilege of living a life set apart for Him.