As we navigate through life, many followers of Jesus are called to a profound sacrifice—paying a high price for their commitment. This journey isn’t just spiritual; it often extends into every aspect of our lives. Consider what happened with Jimmy Doohan when he was injured in battle and suffered immense pain from his wounds. Despite not being religious at the time, he demonstrated extraordinary faith by addressing the pain directly, commanding it to leave his body.
But for believers today, we have a clearer understanding. We are called through God’s word to honor our bodies as temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20), acknowledging that we belong wholly to Him and were redeemed at a great cost—the shedding of Christ’s blood on Calvary. As born-again Christians, we have received salvation through His sacrifice, yet there is more expected of us. We are not merely saved; we are called to live in a way that reflects this redemption.
The Bible tells the story of David and Araunah when he bought the threshing floor for an altar—an act requiring significant cost. It wasn’t a free gift but was purchased with resources, mirroring how Christ paid the ultimate price through His sacrifice on Golgotha’s hill, redeeming us from the curse of the law (Galatians 3:13). The willingness to pay this price is essential.
Paul emphasizes that we must be filled with the knowledge of God’s will and walk in a manner worthy of Him. But how many of us truly grasp what it means to live fully for Christ? It requires discipline, self-control, and a willingness to lay down our lives—perhaps even losing worldly things like family acceptance or material security—for the sake of the kingdom.
It is not easy. Isaiah prophesied that Jesus would bear our transgressions and iniquities (Isaiah 53:5). He was pierced for us, crushed under judgment so we could find peace through His wounds. And Revelation shows those who reign with Christ did pay a high price—sacrificing their lives.
Are you prepared to pay the cost? As Hebrews 12:1 says, Jesus is our pioneer and leader, but He also challenges us to run the race for faith without wavering. Let’s ensure that we are obedient children of God, laying down our rights as if they were insignificant compared to reaching others with the Gospel.
The Apostle Paul demonstrated this commitment when he wrote in Philippians 3:8 that everything else pales in comparison to knowing Christ. Are you willing?