Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. --Ephesians 5:1-2

Muriel McQuilklin was an amazing artist, a vivacious radio host, and a devoted wife and mother while her husband Robertson had a prosperous career as a popular Bible college president. But this all changed when Alzheimer’s disease began to slowly steal Muriel’s mind.

At the peak of his career…while many urged him to put his wife in a nursing home…Robertson McQuilkin left his college presidency to stay home and care for his ailing wife.

His critics couldn’t believe he would walk away from “God’s work,” but this devoted husband shrugged them off saying simply, “There are others who can lead the Bible college, but I am the only one who can care for Muriel.”

Even when she no longer knew him, Robertson lovingly cared for Muriel until she passed away in 2003, 20 years after her diagnosis.

Like McQuilkin, you may know what it’s like to walk beside an ailing loved one. If not, you can probably relate to having to make some kind of sacrifice for others, be it a sacrifice of your time, your energy, or your finances (or all three!).

At times like these, Satan loves to question just why you’re making that sacrifice, and what you’re going to get out of it. But don’t listen to him!

Remember the awesome sacrifice that Jesus Christ made on your behalf on the cross…and know that He will bless you for giving of yourself unselfishly like He did.

Prayer Challenge: Thank God for His wonderful sacrifice and ask Him to help you remember His precious grace when you must make sacrifices for others.