Leflore Baptist Association

A Part of Life and Growth

            Have you ever noticed that some words leave a somewhat sour taste in our mouths? Words like diet, taxes, and discipline are among them. One reason these words seem so difficult is that they all cost us something. There are certainly many other words that could be added to this list, but there is one I haven't mentioned that would make most people's list: sacrifice.

For those of us who are followers of Jesus, sacrifice is not a new concept. Throughout Scripture, we read about sacrifices offered in the temple for the forgiveness of sin. In the New Testament, we see the disciples sacrifice careers, comfort, and precious time with their families to follow Jesus. Yet the greatest example of sacrifice is found in Jesus Himself, who willingly laid down His life so that we could have a relationship with God.

These examples teach us that sacrifice is not optional. It is a part of everyday life and an act of worship. Romans 12:1-2 says:

"I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.”

As believers, we offer ourselves to God every day to bring glory to His name. The joy of giving something to God, whether it be our time, money, talents, or mind, is both a privilege and an act of worship that honors the Lord.

As our nation celebrates 250 years of history, we are also reminded that many of the blessings we enjoy today came at a great cost. Countless men and women sacrificed their comfort, their dreams, and, in many cases, their very lives to preserve the freedoms we cherish. Their example reminds us that the things we value most often require sacrifice. While no earthly sacrifice compares to the sacrifice of Christ, we can honor both His sacrifice and theirs by living lives marked by gratitude, service, and faithfulness.

The next time God opens a door that may require sacrifice, think of it as an opportunity for worship and watch how He uses it to grow you. Sacrifice is an opportunity to show God how much we love Him. So, instead of viewing sacrifice as a burden, let us see it as an opportunity to go, to grow, and to glorify God.

Bentley Hill