"For You do not desire sacrifice, or else I would give it;

You do not delight in burnt offering.

The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit,

broken and a contrite heart—

These, O God, You will not despise." Psalm 51:16-17 NKJV

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What is a broken spirit? It is the positive response of the human heart to God's instruction and direction. Wild animals have uncontrolled spirits. Only when this spirit is "broken", can they be made to do the will of their owner, to be obedient to his direction and command. But, God doesn't "break" our spirits; He pleads, “My son, give me your heart, And let your eyes observe my ways.” (Proverbs 23:26 NKJV)

The human heart is like that of the untamed beasts; it is selfish, and self-willed. If left to itself, it will only grow more determined to have its own way.

Consider sacrifice, not as giving, nor trading, but rather as using. This would harmonize with God's plan in the beginning. As agents of heaven, we would be continually receiving God's blessings, and distributing these to others.

This knowledge and awareness of our relationship to God would prevent us from having pride of ownership. It would also be a great wall against selfishness. We would never substitute giving for personal service. We would never feel guilty about our possessions, for we would be earning, saving, using, and giving under God's direction.

Appeal: Our offering today is for the World Budget and one recipient is the NAD Adventist Community Services fund.