817) There have been many throughout the ages who have been martyrs, those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in giving up their lives for what they believe. Many of Jesus’ closest followers were later put to death for their beliefs. Yet, when I think about this subject, I realize that not all martyrs are admirable.

Proverbs 21:3 tells us that obedience is better than any sacrifices we make, including martyrdom. Why? Could it be because the motives around some sacrifices are selfish ones? I don’t know about the specific sacrifices made by mankind but I know sometimes I have made them solely to make myself look better.

Obedience is the foundation of any sacrifices we make. Perhaps we should focus on this a little more.