Is the distinction between living for Christ and dying for Him so great? Is not the second the logical conclusion of the first?
Interpretation
The quote suggests that living a life dedicated to Christ naturally leads to the ultimate sacrifice of dying for Him.
Elisabeth Elliot's quote reflects on the deep commitment one can have in their faith. She proposes that if one truly lives for Christ, then the act of dying for Him is not only a possibility but a natural extension of that devotion. This challenges believers to consider the weight of their faith and actions, emphasizing that a life devoted to spiritual principles may eventually lead to significant sacrifices.
In practice
In a sermon focused on the significance of faith, one might use this quote to inspire the congregation.
We are not asked to SEE," said Amy. "Why need we when we KNOW?" We know--not the answer to the inevitable Why, but the incontestable fact that it is for the best. "It is an irreparable loss, but is it faith at all if it is 'hard to trust' when things are entirely bewildering?
Prayer lays hold of God's plan and becomes the link between His will and its accomplishment on earth. Amazing things happen, and we are given the privilege of being the channels of the Holy Spirit's prayer.
What sort of world might it have been if Eve had refused the servants offer and had said to him instead, βlet me not be like God. Let me be what I was made to be - let me be a woman'?
Worship is not an experience. Worship is an act, and this takes discipline. We are to worship ''in spirit and in truth.'' Never mind about the feelings. We are to worship in spite of them.
Restlessness and impatience change nothing except our peace and joy. Peace does not dwell in outward things, but in the heart prepared to wait trustfully and quietly on Him who has all things safely in His hands.
If your goal is purity of heart, be prepared to be thought very odd.
From this point of view, to avoid your strengths and to focus on your weaknesses isn't a sign of diligent humility. It is almost irresponsible. By contrast the most responsible, the most challenging, and, in the sense of being true to yourself, the most honorable thing to do is face up to the strength potential inherent in your talents and then find ways to realize it.
If you can wait and not be tired of waiting, or being lied about, don't deal in lies. Or being hated, don't give way to hating, and yet don't look too good, nor talk too wise.
Do not say a little in many words but a great deal in a few.
Though I can't change what happened, I can choose how to react. And I don't want to spend the rest of my life being bitter and locked up.
Because a doubt is not a denial. Doubt is a powerful tool, and it should be applied to history.
The greatest of faults, I should say, is to be conscious of none.
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