‘Sadaka Yangu’ Announces The Power and Blessings of Sacrifice
What does it mean to sacrifice? It's giving something precious, something that costs you dearly, with tears in your eyes. It’s not about the volume, but the value; not the quantity, but the quality.
This act is painful, yet it is the key that unlocks many gates to people’s deliverances and blessings. This is the power of sacrifice, a secret to supernatural breakthroughs, a concept that ministered to me as it was taught by Bishop David Abioye.
The psalmist knew this truth well: "Those who sow in tears shall reap in joy. He who continually goes forth weeping, bearing seed for sowing, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him" (Psalms 126:5-6, NKJV).
Sacrifice is done in pain, but the one who engages in it reaps joy bountifully. The returns are beyond human explanation, a fearful harvest ordained by God to usher in a new dawn, glorious beginnings, and a series of breakthroughs.
What is this altar of sacrifice? It is a place where curses are reversed, as seen when Noah's offering led to God's promise not to curse the ground again (Genesis 8:20-21). It is an altar of covenant enactment, where God promises to bless those who make a sacrifice in worship (Psalm 50:5). It is a place for the termination of plagues, just as David's sacrifice ended the plague on Israel (2 Samuel 24:22-25). It is the altar of supernatural turnaround, exemplified by the widow of Zarephath.
When should we bring our sacrifice? Whenever things look tight, just as the widow of Zarephath did when she had only a handful of flour left. When God instructs you to do so, as He did with Abraham and Isaac. And when you are prompted by a delightful spirit to do so, like King Solomon who offered a thousand burnt offerings and was asked by God what he desired in return.
How can we ensure our sacrifice is acceptable? First, we must give ourselves to God, just as the churches in Macedonia first gave themselves to the Lord (2 Corinthians 8:1-5). We must give it out of love, not obligation, just as Solomon loved the Lord (1 Kings 3:3).
It must be given willingly, as Abraham was ready to do (Genesis 22:9-10). It should be an act of worship, for Abraham went up the mountain to worship God (Genesis 22:5). And finally, we must give with expectation, believing that God will respond fearfully, just as Abraham believed God could raise Isaac from the dead (Hebrews 11:17-18).
Think of the widow of Zarephath. She sacrificed her last meal and in return, experienced a supernatural turnaround, as her flour and oil did not run out during the drought.
Consider Abraham’s sacrifice of Isaac. He was willing to give up his most precious gift, and in return, God enacted a covenant of blessings and multiplication that still speaks today.
And above all, remember the death of Jesus Christ. God sacrificed His only Son to reconcile the world to Himself. This ultimate act of love is a testament to the power of sacrifice.
In conclusion, sacrifice may be the answer to your challenge. There are countless testimonies that emanate from the altar of sacrifice. Nobody gives an acceptable sacrifice and remains the same. So act on this truth today, and you will be sharing your own testimony sooner than you expect.
