Introduction
One of the deepest tests that every believer must face in their walk with God is the test of sacrifice. Sacrifice is not simply about giving something away; it is about giving up what costs us, what we value, and what we hold dear. Sacrifice is the proof of true love, genuine obedience, and unshakable faith. It demonstrates whether we value God above all else.
The Bible is full of examples where God’s people were tested through sacrifice. Each test revealed the condition of their hearts and their trust in Him. Today, as believers, we must understand that the test of sacrifice is not in the past only; it is still relevant in our lives.
1. The Ultimate Example – Abraham’s Test
Perhaps the most famous example of sacrifice in Scripture is Abraham being asked to give up his beloved son, Isaac.
“Take your son, your only son Isaac, whom you love, and go to the region of Moriah. Sacrifice him there as a burnt offering on a mountain I will show you.” (Genesis 22:2, NIV)
This command was not just a test of obedience; it was a test of Abraham’s heart. Isaac was the son of promise, the one through whom God had said nations would come. Yet God asked Abraham to place Isaac on the altar.
Abraham passed the test. He trusted God enough to believe that even if Isaac died, God could raise him up again (Hebrews 11:19). This act of obedience revealed that Abraham loved God more than his son, more than the promise, and more than his own understanding.
As believers, we learn here that the test of sacrifice exposes what or whom we love most. Are we willing to lay down our dreams, relationships, or possessions if God requires it?
2. Sacrifice Proves Our Love
True love is always expressed in sacrifice. Words are not enough; actions reveal the depth of our devotion.
“For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:16)
God Himself set the example. His love for humanity was proven through giving His Son, Jesus. Love without sacrifice is shallow and incomplete.
In the same way, as believers, our love for God must be backed up by our willingness to give. Jesus declared:
“Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.” (Luke 9:23)
The cross represents sacrifice. To follow Jesus means to lay down our will, comfort, and personal ambitions to embrace His purpose.
3. The Cost of True Worship
Many people think worship is only about singing songs, but biblically, worship is tied to sacrifice. When David sought to offer to the Lord, he said:
“I will not sacrifice to the Lord my God burnt offerings that cost me nothing.” (2 Samuel 24:24)
Sacrifice that costs us nothing is not true worship. It is the price we are willing to pay that shows the depth of our devotion. For a believer, worship means offering our time, energy, finances, and even our very lives.
Paul echoes this in the New Testament:
“Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.” (Romans 12:1)
The test of sacrifice reveals whether our worship is genuine or convenient.
4. The Rich Young Ruler – A Failed Test
Not everyone passes the test of sacrifice. The rich young ruler in Matthew 19 approached Jesus, eager for eternal life. But when Jesus told him to sell his possessions, give to the poor, and follow Him, the young man walked away sorrowful.
“When the young man heard this, he went away sad, because he had great wealth.” (Matthew 19:22)
The test exposed his heart—his wealth meant more to him than following Jesus. Sacrifice always unmasks what we treasure.
As believers, we must ask ourselves: What is it that we would struggle to give up if God asked for it? That very thing could be the idol standing between us and full devotion to Him.
5. Sacrifice and Eternal Reward
Sacrifice may be painful in the present, but it carries eternal reward. Jesus assured His disciples of this truth:
“And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or wife or children or fields for my sake will receive a hundred times as much and will inherit eternal life.” (Matthew 19:29)
Every sacrifice made for the sake of God’s kingdom is noticed, recorded, and rewarded. While the world clings to temporary gain, believers are called to invest in eternal treasures.
“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven…” (Matthew 6:19–20)
6. Jesus – The Perfect Sacrifice
The greatest demonstration of sacrifice is found in Jesus Christ. He willingly gave His life for our salvation.
“Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” (John 15:13)
On the cross, Jesus passed the test of sacrifice completely. He surrendered His will to the Father, saying:
“Yet not my will, but yours be done.” (Luke 22:42)
His obedience brought us redemption, forgiveness, and eternal life. His example challenges every believer to live sacrificially—not out of compulsion, but out of love.
7. Passing Our Own Test of Sacrifice
Every believer will face moments where God asks for something precious. It may be a relationship, a career opportunity, a habit, or even material possessions. The test is not about God needing what we have, but about whether He truly has our hearts.
Paul reminds us:
“For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it.” (1 Timothy 6:7)
Everything we have is temporary, but our obedience and sacrifice have eternal significance. The question is: Will we pass the test when it comes?
Conclusion
The test of sacrifice is not easy, but it is essential. It reveals where our loyalty lies, proves our love for God, and aligns us with His perfect will. Abraham, David, and the apostles show us that sacrifice brings blessing and eternal reward. The rich young ruler reminds us of the danger of holding on to earthly treasures. And above all, Jesus Christ proves that the way of sacrifice leads to glory.
As believers, let us embrace the call of sacrifice with faith and courage, knowing that whatever we lay down for God will never be lost. He is faithful to reward every act of obedience.
“Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” (1 Corinthians 15:58)