A Life of Willing Sacrifice for the Lord: GFA School of Discipleship
The average young adult in America looks forward expectantly to a life free from the rules of home; free to build their future; free to make their own decisions. They look forward to the world of adulthood that they see being living out around them.
This is natural and, therefore, to be expected.
However, there are also those who have responded to the call of the Lord to present themselves as a "living sacrifice" forsaking their own dreams to be set apart for His work. The Apostle Paul describes this as their "reasonable service." (Romans 12:1)
It is not possible to present ourselves as a "living sacrifice" unless we do it as a "willing sacrifice." Doing so requires an entirely different mindset.
Paul explained that mindset in his letter to the Philippians (Philippians 2:5-8). Although Jesus had all the riches of Heaven to enjoy for all of eternity, He "made Himself of no reputation and took the form of a servant." This required that He humble himself.
The Creator gave up everything to become a willing sacrifice for us. That is why it is our reasonable service to do the same for Him.
If he gave up everything that we might live, should we not give up everything to live for Him?
The GFA School of Discipleship is one year of willing sacrifice in which students commit to serving the Lord above self.
It all begins with a willingness to present themselves, not to GFA, but to the Lord. The School of Discipleship is simply the instrument the Lord uses to help the willing students understand a true life of willing sacrifice in the Lord's service.
Students learn under the tutelage and example of GFA staff members. Principles of godly living taught in the classroom are lived out in service and holiness as a lifestyle.
A willing sacrifice is one who chooses to be holy, that is, set apart from the world and unto the Lord. So, what is the School of Discipleship student really sacrificing?
He or she is sacrificing the world and the things of this world – all of which are passing away and are, therefore, nothing to be held onto.
In contrast, they are laying hold of the eternal things of the Lord. They are, thereby, becoming vessels fit for the Master to use to accomplish His purposes.
Is that too big a sacrifice? Many will say it is. Scripture says it is reasonable. "Reasonable" is just another way of saying that it makes sense. And it does.
Are you wondering how the Lord can use you? Are you willing to become a living sacrifice? Read more about the GFA School of Discipleship and prayerfully consider submitting your application to join others whom the Lord is shaping and using.
Want more information? Visit our website and request a free Information Kit.
"I beseech you, therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service." –Romans 12:1
To read more posts on Patheos on the GFA School of Discipleship, go here.
Click here, to read more blogs on Patheos from Gospel for Asia.
Comments
Post a Comment