The most precious thing we have is life, 
yet it has absolutely no trade-in value

HB Paksoy

Or, does it?  The real question is, to whom?  Genesis 2:7 “Then the Lord God formed the man of dust from the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living creature.”  Imagine making a chair, or bed, or a chest of drawers.  Regardless of the quality, it is your own make.  You used your own resources, wood, and paint.  If somebody takes it away without your permission, will you be alright?  So, would not God object if your life is taken by someone else?  

Can you exchange your life for something else?  For example, for someone else’s life?  Maximilian Maria Kolbe did just that in 1941. He volunteered to die, replacing Franciszek Gajowniczek on a death list containing ten names.  Romans 12:2 “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.”  Perhaps there are other similar incidents we are not yet aware.

Does it always have to end with death?  Galileo’s (d. 1642) hard science discoveries, forming the bases of today’s understanding of the universe, were deemed against the Bible. He was investigated and found to be “vehemently suspect of heresy.”  Somehow his life was spared, partially due to the support of Jesuits, forced to recant and spent the rest of his days under house arrest. His library attests to his findings.  In 1992 Pope John Paul II formally apologized to Galileo.  Thus it took one man to bring science into religion.  Romans 8:28  “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.”

Saint Kolbe was canonized in 1982, whereas Galileo is still waiting.