If you really think about it, the Bible is a story of sacrifice. There were animal sacrifices that people offered for their sin, but there were other sacrifices that were much harder to offer. As a test of faith, Abraham was asked to sacrifice his only son, Isaac. Hannah offered her son, Samuel, for the service of God. And the greatest story of all, God giving us His only Son, Jesus, who gave up His life for us. But for each sacrifice, the giver received more. God promised to bless Abraham and his descendants. Hannah was blessed with more children. Jesus’ sacrifice drew many to God.
As I read through these stories, I’ve had to ask myself, just how willing am I to offer whatever it is that I am holding on to God? Is it hard? Yes. Is it worth it? Absolutely! A life of surrender is not a life of regret (although the devil would like us to believe otherwise). It’s a life of peace and joy. No matter how much our sacrifice cost us, it can’t compare with what God wants to give us. He did it for the ancients, so what makes us think that He won’t do it for us? He’s always been and always will be true to His Word!
Is God asking you to give up something for His glory and your good? Give it to Him and expect to receive His best. Live a life of sacrifice. It’ll be a story worth telling.
Rising with the Son 