There must be a difference between sacrifice that is forced on me and sacrifice I choose in order to accomplish something for Good.

Persecution from doing good is one kind of sacrifice forced on me.

The Bible says that sacrifice from persecution is to be endured as a way to identify with the sufferings of Jesus. I don't choose this sacrifice, even though it may be a result of Godly behavior. This kind of sacrifice is character building, developing an endurance in the face of different kinds of pressure. It is also a witness to those aware of my sacrifice.

Sacrifice I choose is what I deny myself in order to gain something greater. I sacrifice time spent in certain pleasures to devote that time for God. I sacrifice satisfying certain appetites so I can live without guilt draining my spiritual effectiveness. I choose to sacrifice for the joy that lies on the other side of what that sacrifice will produce.

Jesus chose to sacrifice Himself "before the foundations of the world" - "Who, for the joy set before Him, endured the cross, despising its shame", knowing that there would be an ultimate benefit.

I think that "living sacrifice" is something I choose.