Number 15 Topic: *The Surrendered Life of Sacrifices 1* By M. S. Stephens Text: Romans 12:1-8 Hymns: 363 (I Surrender All), 356 (Take My Life and Let It Be), 355 (Have Thine Own Way, Lord) *Introduction*: In the journey of faith, we are called to live a surrendered life—a life of sacrifice, where we relinquish personal desires, ambitions, and comforts in service to God. This is not just a concept, but a transformative way of living that aligns with the higher ideals of Christ. The Apostle Paul, in Romans 12:1-8, lays out the foundation for this surrendered life, urging us to present ourselves as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God. This message invites us to explore the depth and significance of a surrendered life and its demands, challenges, and ultimate rewards. Romans 12:1 says, "Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, given God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship." 1. *Pleasing God: A Life of Devotion* Our primary purpose is to live a life that is pleasing to God. The Christian walk is not about conforming to worldly standards but living to honour God with every aspect of our being. As Paul emphasizes, presenting ourselves as living sacrifices is our "true and proper worship." This worship is not just what we do in church but how we live daily. It is about offering our lives to God in obedience, purity, and love. *Application*: Examine your life. - Is it pleasing to God? - Are there areas that need to be surrendered to Him? - In your daily decisions, ask, “Does this honour God?” *Call to Action*: Make a conscious effort to live in a way that glorifies God. Dedicate time for personal prayer and Bible study, seeking to align your actions with His will. 2. *Self-Denial: Embracing the Call of Christ* Christ calls us to deny ourselves, take up our cross, and follow Him (Matthew 16:24). A surrendered life requires letting go of worldly pleasures and personal ambitions that conflict with our spiritual growth. It’s a life of continual submission to God’s will. *Application*: Are there things in your life—habits, relationships, or desires—that you need to let go of to grow closer to God? *Call to Action*: Take time this week to reflect on areas where God may be calling you to practice self-denial. Make a tangible step towards surrendering these to Him. 3. *Spiritual Renewal: Daily Transformation* Paul reminds us in Romans 12:2 not to conform to the patterns of this world but to be transformed by the renewing of our minds. Spiritual renewal is essential for sustaining a surrendered life. It allows us to know God's will—His good, pleasing, and perfect will. *Application*: - Commit to a life of regular spiritual renewal. - Join a Bible study group, engage in personal devotion, and seek God's presence consistently. *Call to Action*: Spend time each day in prayer and reflection, asking God to renew your heart and mind. 4. *Humility: Walking in the Example of Christ* Pride is the enemy of a surrendered life. In Philippians 2:5-11, Paul highlights the humility of Christ, who, though equal with God, emptied Himself to serve humanity. We are called to follow this example by not thinking more highly of ourselves than we ought, but humbly serving others. *Application*: Reflect on areas where pride may be hindering your spiritual growth. Are you willing to humble yourself for the sake of Christ? *Call to Action*: Humbly serve someone this week, not seeking recognition but genuinely helping others as Christ did. 5. *Soberness and Unity: Using Our Gifts for God's Glory* Paul reminds us that each of us has been given different measures of faith and spiritual gifts to be used for the building of the church. We are not to boast or compare, but rather work in unity, recognizing that we are all part of one body in Christ. 1 Corinthians 12:7 tells us that each gift is for the common good, and Ephesians 4:7 speaks of the grace apportioned to us according to Christ's measure. *Application*: - Identify your spiritual gifts. - How are you using them to serve the church and the kingdom of God? - Are you working in unity with others? *Call to Action*: If you haven’t already, take an active role in ministry, using your gifts to serve. Collaborate with others in humility, knowing that all gifts are from God. 6. *Generosity and Service: Sacrificial Living* A surrendered life is a life of generosity and service. Paul encourages believers to give cheerfully, serve diligently, and extend mercy with joy. This includes being sensitive to the needs of the poor, sick, and sorrowful, just as the early church did. *Application*: - Are you giving sacrificially? - Are you serving others with a joyful heart? - Reflect on how you can be more generous with your time, resources, and talents. *Call to Action*: Look for opportunities to give and serve this week. Volunteer, donate, or extend a helping hand to someone in need. *Conclusion*: A surrendered life of sacrifice is marked by devotion to God, self-denial, spiritual renewal, humility, unity, generosity, and service. It is not an easy path, but it is the path that leads to true fulfilment in Christ. As we surrender our lives to God, we become living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to Him. Let us commit to living this way, knowing that our sacrifice is an act of worship and that God will use our lives for His glory. *Closing Prayer*: "Lord, we come before You, surrendering our lives completely to Your will. Teach us to live sacrificially, denying ourselves and taking up our cross daily. Renew our minds and hearts, and guide us to serve others humbly and generously. Help us to use the gifts You have given us for the growth of Your kingdom. Lord, may our lives be a living sacrifice, pleasing to You in every way. Strengthen us with Your grace as we strive to live a surrendered life of sacrifice. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen."