Living Sacrifice: Preparing the Way for Jesus

As we step into a new year, it’s natural to think about goals, habits, and the kind of people we want to become. But Scripture invites us into something far deeper than self-improvement. It calls us to surrender.

In Romans 12:1, Paul urges us to offer our lives as a living and holy sacrifice—not as a one-time moment, but as a daily posture of worship. A living sacrifice isn’t about striving harder or doing more for God. It’s about allowing surrender to shape our growth instead of trying to shape ourselves apart from Him.

So often, we decide what “better” looks like. We define success, control the timeline, and manage our own transformation. But living surrendered means releasing the right to define the outcome. It’s saying, “God, I want to grow—but I want You to shape how, where, and why.” That kind of surrender doesn’t eliminate movement or dreams; it simply reorders them under obedience.

Jesus reminds us that following Him comes with cost. Carrying our cross daily means denying the flesh—especially in a culture built around comfort, distraction, and self-gratification. Scripture never promises that indulgence will lead to renewal. Instead, Acts 3 tells us that times of refreshment come when we turn toward God. True renewal flows from obedience, not escape.

Living as a sacrifice also keeps us awake. Lukewarm faith doesn’t come from disbelief—it comes from passivity. When we stop surrendering, we slowly drift into comfort. But daily obedience keeps our hearts engaged, our faith alive, and our purpose clear.
The Bible reminds us that Jesus is returning. And preparation for His return isn’t rushed or last-minute—it’s formed slowly, faithfully, day by day. The small choices matter. The quiet obedience matters. The unseen surrender matters.

This invitation isn’t meant to bring shame or pressure. It’s an invitation rooted in love and courage. Often, following Jesus means adding by subtracting—laying something down so we can pick up what truly matters. As we do, our lives begin to prepare the way for Him.
My prayer is that this year would be marked not by resolution, but by surrender. That Lifehouse would be a people awake in faith, unified in purpose, and willing to live as living sacrifices—so that the knowledge of the glory of the Lord fills the earth.