In what ways can we offer our best to God today? Solomon’s Lavish Offering “King Solomon offered a sacrifice of twenty-two thousand oxen and one hundred twenty thousand sheep. So the king and all the people dedicated the house of God.” (2 Chronicles 7:5) The numbers are literal, underscoring that the Lord is worthy of extraordinary, costly devotion. The Principle: Our Best Belongs to Him • Solomon’s gift flowed from gratitude for God’s presence; nothing less than the finest would do. • God’s worth has not diminished; while we no longer bring animals to an altar, the call to give Him our very best remains unchanged (Romans 12:1-2). Practical Ways to Offer Our Best Today Wholehearted Worship • Engage mind, heart, and voice when the church gathers (Psalm 95:1-2). • Sing, pray, and listen with full attention—no distracted multitasking. • Cultivate private worship: reading, meditation, and praise throughout the week (Psalm 63:1, 3-4). Stewardship of Resources • Honor the Lord with the “firstfruits” of income (Proverbs 3:9). • Give generously and cheerfully to gospel work and those in need (2 Corinthians 9:6-7; Hebrews 13:16). • Budget so that giving is planned, not leftover. Purity and Obedience • Offer a life set apart, refusing half-hearted compromise (1 Peter 1:14-16). • Confess and forsake sin quickly; purity is part of worship (Psalm 24:3-4). • Choose entertainment, conversations, and relationships that honor Christ (Philippians 4:8). Service to Others • Use spiritual gifts to build up the body (1 Peter 4:10). • Look for unnoticed tasks—stack chairs, visit shut-ins, prepare meals. • Meet practical needs as an outflow of love, mirroring the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:36-37). Excellence in Daily Work • Work “with all your heart, as working for the Lord” (Colossians 3:23). • Display integrity, punctuality, diligence, and creativity as acts of worship. • View home duties, studies, and employment alike as sacred trusts. Witness and Discipleship • Speak of Christ openly, making the most of every opportunity (Colossians 4:5-6). • Disciple newer believers, sharing time and wisdom (2 Timothy 2:2). • Live so that good deeds prompt others to glorify God (Matthew 5:16). Persistent Prayer • Labor in intercession for family, church, and world (Ephesians 6:18). • Keep a prayer list; celebrate answers to stay encouraged (1 Samuel 12:23). • Fast periodically, pairing sacrifice of food with focused petition (Matthew 6:16-18). Conclusion: The Joy of Lavish Devotion Solomon’s massive offering reminds us that God welcomes wholehearted, costly gifts. When we worship passionately, give sacrificially, pursue holiness, serve diligently, work excellently, witness boldly, and pray earnestly, we lay modern “oxen and sheep” on the altar—offering nothing less than our very best to the One who first gave His all for us. |
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