Sacrifice is not a word we like to hear. It sounds costly, uncomfortable, and even painful. But for those of us who follow Christ, it is at the heart of what it means to live a surrendered life.
Romans 12:1 tells us, “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.”
A living sacrifice…what does that really mean? In the Old Testament, sacrifices were placed on the altar to atone for sin. Something had to die. But Jesus became the ultimate sacrifice on our behalf. His death paid the price, once and for all. Now, He calls us to live as sacrifices, not just in a one-time act, but daily, moment by moment, choosing to surrender ourselves fully to Him.
A Surrendered Life is a Laid-Down Life
A surrendered life is not about following a checklist of religious duties. It is about full and total devotion to Christ. It means laying down our own plans, desires, and even our rights, so that His will can take center stage. It’s a life where:
Obedience outweighs convenience. We follow God’s leading even when it’s hard.
Faith replaces control. We trust His plan even when we don’t see the full picture.
Love becomes the motive. We serve others selflessly, just as Christ did.
Holiness matters. We strive to live set apart, not conforming to the world’s standards.
But let’s be honest. Surrender costs us. It costs us our pride, our comfort, and sometimes our dreams. Yet, the beauty of it all is this: Jesus already paid the highest price. He laid the foundation, walking the path of surrender before us. He gave up everything. So, we could gain everything in Him.
What Can We Lay Down?
So, what about you? What is God asking you to surrender today?
Is it fear that keeps you from stepping into what He’s calling you to do?
Is it control, refusing to trust Him with your future?
Is it an old wound that needs to be released so you can experience healing?
Is it pride, keeping you from forgiving or admitting you’re wrong?
Is it comfort, making you reluctant to step out in faith?
Whatever it is, He’s calling you to lay it down at His feet. Not because He wants to take from you, but because He wants to fill you with something greater..Himself.
So, what about you? What is God asking you to surrender today?
Are you a living sacrifice?
What will you lay down today?
Beloved, this post challenged me to look at my own life and ask myself the same questions. Let us pray for one another that we may get the answers we need to truly live a surrendered life like Jesus did.
Blessings,
Nia
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It’s so hard to see the blessings beyond the sacrifice, like 1 Cor 2.9 But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.
When we love Him, we obey, we sacrifice. God has given me a few opportunities this week to do just that, and I am learning that sacrifice turns out to be well worth it.
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Amen Kathy. Yes, I love that scripture. It certainly keeps us hopeful and reminds us of His promises. Sacrifice is tough but when we get on the other side of it, the blessing is greater. I just hope He will help to to be proactive in my sacrifice and not reactive.
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