The lack of a clear understanding about what sacrifice really is has led many to a life that is far from what God has planned for His people. And, as long as the person does not change the way he understands and puts it into practice, he will be unsuccessful, even if he remains in Church for many years.

Observe how Jesus considered a sacrifice that needed to be done:

Now My soul is troubled, and what shall I say? ‘Father, save Me from this hour’? But for this purpose I came to this hour. Father, glorify Your name’. Then a voice came from heaven, saying, ‘I have both glorified it and will glorify it again’. John 12.27-28

This awareness led Him to understand that even though He was God the Son, He could not run away or fix the situation so He wouldn’t have to sacrifice, because this was the reason He was there. He knew His Project required the Greatest of all sacrifices! And, though He was under great distress, knowing everything He would endure, He glorified God the Father by going to the Altar.

Wasn’t this what Abraham did as well? Even though his soul was in anguish, he continued walking towards Moriah.

Notice how the awareness of the need for sacrifice does not let the person offering the sacrifice give up or look back. It is interesting to note that the voice that called out to Abraham saying: Now I know that you fear God, was the same that, like thunder, said: I have both glorified it and will glorify it again.

Therefore, I believe that all those who come before the Altar with the same awareness about sacrifice, will surely hear the same voice that called to Abraham and answered the Lord Jesus. No one will remain the same after coming down from the Altar!

May God enlighten your understanding so that your sacrifice is perfect!