How can we apply the principles of sacrificial giving in Leviticus 3:4 today? Setting the Scene Leviticus 3 describes the fellowship (peace) offering, a voluntary act of worship expressing gratitude and communion with God. Verse 4 zooms in on an unusual place—the fat surrounding hidden organs: “and the two kidneys with the fat that is on them beside the loins, and the fatty lobe of the liver, which you shall remove with the kidneys.” (Leviticus 3:4) What This Meant Then • The choicest, energy–rich fat belonged exclusively to the Lord. • The worshiper did not give scraps; he offered the very best—portions regarded as delicacies. • The fat was burned on the altar, rising as a soothing aroma (Leviticus 3:16). • By surrendering what was unseen inside the animal, the offerer acknowledged God’s right to the deepest, most valuable parts of life. Timeless Principles • God is worthy of our finest resources, not our leftovers. • True giving is often hidden from public view; it flows from the heart (Matthew 6:3–4). • Sacrifice acknowledges that everything we possess already belongs to the Lord (Psalm 24:1). • Peace with God naturally produces generosity toward Him and others (Hebrews 13:15-16). Practical Ways to Live This Out Today • Give the “first and the best” of your income before budgeting anything else (Proverbs 3:9). • Set aside time—prime, alert hours—for worship, Scripture, and service rather than squeezing God into spare moments. • Offer hidden talents or behind-the-scenes service where no applause is expected: – Write encouraging notes. – Intercede in prayer for missionaries or church leaders. – Quietly meet a financial need you discover. • Release areas of life we tend to guard: – Reputation: Speak the truth even when misunderstood. – Security: Trust God by tithing or giving sacrificially during lean seasons. – Comfort: Volunteer in ministries that stretch you. • Cultivate a lifestyle of open-handed generosity: “Each one should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion.” (2 Corinthians 9:7) Scripture Connections • Romans 12:1—Present your bodies as a living sacrifice. • Malachi 1:8, 10—God rejects blemished offerings. • Mark 12:41-44—The widow’s two small coins surpassed large public gifts because they cost her everything. • 1 Chronicles 21:24—“I will not offer burnt offerings that cost me nothing.” • Philippians 4:18—Generous gifts are “a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, well-pleasing to God.” Taking the Next Step Identify one “fat portion” of your life—time, finances, skill, influence—that you have guarded closely. Intentionally place it on the altar this week, trusting the Lord to use it as a pleasing aroma and deepen your fellowship with Him. |
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