Scripture describes two types of “pouring out.” The first kind is emptying ourselves of sin – getting rid of what is not godly, good, or healthy. That is repentance. Then, by faith, we need to be filled again. This time, with the pure, clear water from the throne of God – the Holy Spirit.

Once we are filled, that water is meant to be partaken of and not put on a stand and admired. The reason God fills us with the Holy Spirit is that we give to others what God has filled us with.

Either He pours us out or we make a choice and pour ourselves out through giving to others. We are the most happy when we serve others.

What It Means To Be A Drink Offering Poured Out to the Lord

When David’s closest warrior friends risked their lives to bring water from the well of Bethlehem, David poured out the water to the Lord. It showed that their lives were to precious and only God is worthy of their lives (1 Chronicles 11:17). Worship is an act of sacrifice!

God instructed the widow to use the last bowl of flour and to pour out her last supply of oil to feed Elijah and her family. (1 Kings 17:12). The widow obeyed and because she obeyed, God made a miracle happen. The jar of flour was not used up and the jug of oil did not run dry. When we obey God’s instructions, miracles happen! When we obey the Lord and pour out the last oil for someone else because God told us to, God will send help for us as well.

Another example is the sinful woman who broke the alabaster jar and poured out expensive perfume onto Jesus in Mark 14:3-9. She was criticized by Judas, when in fact she anointed Jesus as the King,  the Prophet, and the Priest. Whenever someone criticizes someone who is generous it shows their own cheap heart.

Paul saw the pouring out of Steven, when he in his obedience to the Father, without complaining, in the midst of suffering endured. Witnessing this made it possible for Paul to do the same when he was beaten, shipwrecked and thrown into jail. There will be people in our life that we will watch and be drawn to their example, to their spirit, to their sacrifice, because they are pouring themselves all out for God. 

1. To Whom Do We Pour Ourselves Out?

God is the One we desire! (Psalms 25:1)

When we love or serve people without God being involved, it is only good works and it becomes idolatry. When we pour ourself out we feel full.

2. God Is Worthy of our Hearts Poured out! (Mark 14:4) 

3. There Is A Cost To Pour Your Life Out To God!

David’s warriors risked their lives. The widow paid with her last meal. The woman gave a year’s wage. Paul and Steven gave their lives.

Eternal life is paid for by the blood of Jesus, but following the Lord will cost us.

4. It Is All Or Nothing With God!

The alabaster jar with precious ointment had to be broken. For God’s fragrance to be released into out ministry, there needs to be brokenness. Brokenness is when we repent of stubbornness, anger, get rid of sin.

5. With Sacrifice To God, There Is A Risk! (1 Chronicles 11:17)

The 3 warriors risked their lives to get the water.

6. With Sacrifice To God, There Is Great Multiplication. (1 Kings 17:16)

The Lord blessed the widow manyfold because she obeyed God and gave away her last meal.

7. Jesus Was Poured Out For Us! (Psalms 22:14, Philippians 2:4-7)

Jesus washed the dirty feet of the disciples; He wants to do the same with our heart. He wants to wash away our sins.

8. We Refresh The Heart Of God! (Exodus 29:18)

We do that by receiving His gift and the power of the Holy Spirit and pouring it out to the people around us, not holding onto it for ourselves only.

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