“Ye are bought with a price; be not ye the servants of men. Brethren, let every man, wherein he is called, therein abide with God.” 1 Corinthians 7:23-24
Imagine being at the tribunal that would eventually lead to the fulfillment of Jesus' death at Calvary. Although Jesus responded only a few times, He truly had the opportunity and strength to defend Himself against the accounts of the Sanhedrin. Instead, He accepted their accusations without a fight, understanding that His sacrifice would ultimately save the human race.
Eventually, as a Christian, you will have to make a sacrifice that will benefit others without an apparent benefit to yourself; you may have even done so already. However, there’s one small caveat. Unlike Jesus, your sacrifice may lead you to some type of resentment against your fellow Christians, or even, the church itself. You may even believe you did not receive your price for the sacrifice, i.e. recognition, position, accolades, fanfare, love, etc.
It is so easy for the human ego to get caught up in the pomp and circumstance of Christian churches, where we eagerly desire to become part of the hierarchy. Resist the urge. Somehow, desperately keep in mind that any sacrifice you make is not for you; and, it’s not really for others; it is for God. We can never repay the sacrifice of Jesus. Our worship is not enough, our praise is not enough, and what we believe to be our sacrifice is not enough. Our life and love is the only thing we can offer; it is the only thing that counts.
To really understand our sacrifice fully, think about this; has a child you loved ever given you a homemade gift? Do you remember your reaction? Did you display it with pride and satisfaction? Now, could that gift really equal any of the gifts you have given to that child? -No. Your love sees the sacrifice, time, and love that the child has put into the gift. Our gifts, sacrifices, worship, and praise is like that to God. Know that God loves you already, and anything you bring to Him is accepted with love. So beloved, do not wait for your sacrifice to garner recognition, position, accolades, fanfare, love, etc. from others; know that you already have it from God. -L.
Study Reference: 1 Corinthians 7:23-24
From: "Sacrificial Deeds." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: istock
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