How does Numbers 7:45 encourage us to honor God with our resources? Setting the Scene Numbers 7 records how each tribal leader brought identical gifts for the dedication of the altar. Verse 45 lists the gift of Ahiezer of Dan: “one young bull, one ram, and one male lamb a year old for a burnt offering”. Though brief, the verse highlights enduring truths about honoring God with our resources. What the Offering Teaches Us About Honoring God • Priority – A burnt offering was entirely consumed on the altar (Leviticus 1:9). Nothing was held back, signaling that God deserves the first and the whole of what we possess. • Costliness – A young bull and healthy sheep were valuable assets in an agrarian economy. Giving costly animals displayed genuine devotion, not tokenism (2 Samuel 24:24). • Purity – A “male lamb a year old” had to be without defect (Leviticus 1:10). God is honored when what we give is the best, not the leftovers. • Corporate example – Each leader gave publicly, inspiring the entire nation. Our visible generosity can encourage fellow believers (Hebrews 10:24). • Consistent pattern – Every tribe brought the same offering (Numbers 7:12-83). Honoring God with resources is not optional or selective; it is a shared responsibility. Principles for Today • Give the first portion, not the last. • Offer what is valuable to you, reflecting real sacrifice. • Ensure integrity—no “blemished” gifts: honest earnings, ethical stewardship. • Let generosity be a testimony that stirs others to worship. • Treat giving as a continual rhythm, not a sporadic event. Scriptures that Echo the Same Call • Proverbs 3:9-10 – “Honor the LORD with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your harvest; then your barns will be filled with plenty and your vats will overflow with new wine.” • Malachi 3:10 – “Bring the full tithe into the storehouse… and see if I will not open the windows of heaven for you and pour out a blessing until there is no more need.” • 2 Corinthians 9:7 – “Each one should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” • Romans 12:1 – “Present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship.” Putting It Into Practice • Review your budget and set aside God’s portion first. • Identify a prized possession or resource you can use or share for ministry. • Regularly audit your giving for honesty and excellence. • Share testimonies of God’s provision to motivate others. • Keep your heart eager and joyful, remembering that every gift mirrors the wholehearted offering of Christ Himself (Ephesians 5:2). |
    |