“Therefore, I urge you, brothers, and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing, and perfect will”

Romans 12:1, NIV

Scripture & Prayer submitted by: Reverend Olivia Roberts MCS Church of God Leadership Development & Women’s Discipleship President

Sovereign Lord, we approach your throne with gratitude and humility, submitting totally to you as Lord of our lives. Father, we thank you for life and the salvation you have given us in and through your son Jesus.

We pray that we would always present our bodies to you as living sacrifices in holy conditions so that our offerings will be acceptable and pleasing to you. Lord, this is our reasonable service to you that we may come and offer ourselves as we strive towards holiness. Our bodies are yours, our mind belongs to you, or hands are yours, and we pledge to use them to bring glory and honor to you. We understand that we are your "workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them" (Ephesians 2:10, NIV).

We will use our skill, creativity, and knowledge to work in your kingdom until you come. Father renew our minds every day and teach us to discern what is your good and perfect will for us. Because of the mercy you have shown to us, we desire to live out our lives in total surrender to your choice and your way. You have granted us free access to your throne room, where we will find grace and mercy in our times of need. And thus, we humble ourselves and come boldly and make our petitions unto you.

Father gives us the strength to make healthy eating choices, for we know that we are taking care of the temple you gave us when we do this. Please help us to be mindful of good self-care and how it brings honor to you. If we are healthy, we can fulfill the unique purpose you have planned for us and will then become that godly influence in the lives of those you love. Help us, Father, to keep our eyes, our hands, our speech, and every part of our bodies focused on your instructions as we model your light, your love, and your mercy among neighbors and friends.

Most Holy Father, where we have fallen short of taking care of this temple, we ask for your forgiveness, and we petition you in Jesus' name to help us to remember that our bodies are the temple where your holy presence resides. Grant us grace, peace, and mercy, in Jesus' precious name.

Amen.