Give up shouldn’t be a phrase we sometimes have fun. On this planet’s view, to give up is to lose—to surrender energy, to yield management. However within the kingdom of God, give up is the start line of transformation. Romans 12:1 challenges us to current our our bodies as a “dwelling sacrifice”—not simply our ideas or feelings, however our entire selves. This act shouldn’t be merely symbolic; it’s a each day resolution to put down our wishes, habits, and plans in alternate for God’s good will.
Paul doesn’t command us to give up out of guilt, concern, or responsibility. He appeals to us “by the mercies of God.” In different phrases, after we think about all that God has achieved —His forgiveness, His endurance, His grace—give up turns into the one becoming response. It isn’t a burden; it’s what Paul refers to as our “affordable service.” Christ gave every little thing for us. Providing our lives again to Him shouldn’t be excessive; it’s applicable. Within the phrases of the hymn author, “Love so superb, so divine / Calls for my soul, my life, my all.”
To dwell as a “dwelling sacrifice” means we aren’t simply making a one-time dedication. It’s an ongoing way of life of give up (Luke 9:23; 1 Cor. 15:31b). Daily, we climb onto the altar once more, selecting God’s will over our personal. We give up our pleasure in moments of battle. We give up our consolation in moments of service. We give up our plans when God redirects our path (Proverbs 3:5-6). And in every second of give up, we discover higher freedom, pleasure, and readability in Christ.
Give up doesn’t weaken us; fairly, it strengthens us. It opens the door for God’s energy to work in and thru us. It positions us to obtain His knowledge, His peace, and His course. After we cease attempting to regulate every little thing, we start to belief the One who controls all of it. And in doing so, we’re remodeled; not by striving tougher, however by yielding deeper. Give up shouldn’t be giving up. It’s giving in to the One who gave every little thing for us as we sing with upraised arms, “All to thee, my blessed Savior, I give up all.”
