Sometimes it is very difficult to find the difference between sacrifice and submission. Submission is what I do when it would cost me too much not to do it. It is often a choice to give in to keep the peace or to keep out of trouble.

Sacrifice is a voluntary effort that gives up what is mine to give.

It is only truly sacrifice if it something I could freely choose not to give. I don't make a sacrifice when I do what any father should do for his family. I submit to that clear expectation and follow my sense of responsibility. eg: I get up and go to work because my family needs me to provide for them - even if I don't feel like it.

I do make a sacrifice when I give in an area where I am within my right to withhold. I sacrifice when I take my personal time to voluntarily do something that is beyond the "fatherly" area of responsibility. If I resent that sacrifice, then it is not true sacrifice - just loaned effort until I feel I have been "rewarded" for my loss.

I have the hardest time when I get caught not being sure if some considered act or expectation is necessary, right, helpful or whether it is being manipulated by those close to me. (It sometimes happens to any one of us)

I have 10 more days of seeking God's guidance in understanding the essence of sacrifice for my life - then asking His help working it through the fabric of my existence.