By Andrew Williams
“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.” (Romans 12:1)
Good morning fellow disciples, in this series we will be answering questions that will help us to become faithful disciples of Christ.
Sacrifice is a significant theme in Scripture, reflecting the heart of what it means to follow Christ. Jesus Himself modeled the ultimate sacrifice by giving His life for our salvation. As we grow in our faith, we are often called to make sacrifices that align our lives with God’s purposes.
SO, WHAT SACRIFICES IS GOD ASKING US TO MAKE?
- 1. Surrendering Our Will
“Not my will, but yours be done.” (Luke 22:42)
One of the first sacrifices God asks of us is to surrender our own will to His. This means setting aside our plans, desires, and ambitions to follow His leading. It can be challenging to let go of our control, but true freedom comes from trusting God’s perfect plan for our lives.
2. Prioritizing God Over Comfort
“Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.” (Luke 9:23)
Following Christ often requires stepping out of our comfort zones. God may be calling us to make sacrifices in our time, finances, or personal comfort to serve others or further His kingdom. Embracing discomfort for the sake of love and obedience is a powerful expression of our faith.
3. Serving Others
“Serve one another humbly in love.” (Galatians 5:13)
Sacrificial love often manifests in serving others. God may be asking us to give our time, energy, or resources to help those in need—whether within our families, communities, or the broader world. Acts of service does not only bless others but also deepen our relationship with God as we reflect His love.
4. Letting Go of Sin
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles.” (Hebrews 12:1)
Sacrifice also involves letting go of habits, attitudes, or relationships that hinder our walk with God. This might mean giving up certain behaviors or influences that draw us away from Him. The process of purification is often challenging but necessary for spiritual growth.
5. Investing in Spiritual Growth
“But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” (Matthew 6:33)
God may be calling us to sacrifice time for personal growth—through prayer, Bible study, or engaging in community with other believers. Prioritizing our spiritual development often requires us to make choices that honor God, placing Him above distractions.
6. Listening for God’s Guidance
“I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you.” (Psalm 32:8)
Ultimately, discerning what sacrifices God is asking of us requires listening to His voice. Prayerfully seek His guidance in your life, asking for clarity on where He is leading you to make sacrifices. He is faithful to provide direction and strength.
Prayer: Gracious Father, thank You for the ultimate sacrifice of Your Son, Jesus Christ. As we reflect on what it means to follow Him, reveal to us the sacrifices You are asking us to make in our own lives.
Help us to surrender our will and desires, trusting that Your plan is always greater than our own. Give us the courage to step out of our comfort zones and serve others humbly in love.
Show us the areas in our lives where we need to let go of sin or distractions, and guide us to invest in our spiritual growth. May we be attentive to Your voice, seeking Your counsel as we navigate the sacrifices before us.
Lord, strengthen us to live as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to You. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.
