Sacrifice?

Recently in Sunday School we discussed the definition of the word sacrifice. A few definitions were mentioned. One definition was this: giving up something good for something better. Someone in the class argued that it wouldn't be a sacrifice if we were getting something better, it would be an investment. Then the thought was brought up that perhaps at the time of giving something up it seems like a hard thing, or a sacrifice, but in the end it was really a blessing. Interesting.  

Many times in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints we are asked to make such sacrifices. Paying tithing is something that seems like a trial and in some cases impossible. But in the Bible we read in Malachi 3:10 "...and prove me now herewith, saith the Lord of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it." It may seem like a hardship at first but after we obey, Heavenly Father will bless us.

Tithing is one of many sacrifices the Lord asks us to make and in turn will bless us tremendously. Perhaps the most important sacrifice we offer the Lord is that of a 'broken heart' and a 'contrite spirit'. We need to humble ourselves and learn to do the Lord's will, not ours.

Sacrifice to me, at least in the Church, is giving up something temporal for something spiritual. I've given up two years of my life to serve a mission. I could be going to school, working, or a number of others things. I am putting off temporal things in order to build a spiritual foundation and to help others do the same.

As we keep our Heavenly Father's commandments and strive to do our very best I know we will be blessed.