This is a most interesting verse, don’t you think? For Paul, I suppose this may have referred to the ways he was treated in order to preach the word of God. He was beaten repeatedly and imprisoned for his beliefs.
Most of us don’t have to worry about that type of “living and holy sacrifice.” But there are ways to present our bodies to our Savior as our sacrifice. Even without physical pain, like Paul’s sacrifice. In Romans 12:2, Paul continues: “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is–his good, pleasing and perfect will.”
So I’m curious: what is one way you offer your body as a “living and holy sacrifice” to God?
Growing Our Faith Together 