How can we apply the principle of giving God our best today? The Heart of the Command: Leviticus 3:16 “The priest is to burn the fat on the altar as a food offering, a pleasing aroma to the LORD. All the fat belongs to the LORD.” (Leviticus 3:16) Why the “Fat” Matters • In Israel’s culture the fat was the richest, most valued portion of the animal. • By reserving it for Himself, God showed He deserves the finest we possess, not the leftovers. • The aroma rising from the altar pictured wholehearted worship reaching heaven. Principles That Carry Forward • God claims first rights to what is best because He is worthy. • Quality, not just quantity, matters to Him (Malachi 1:8). • Giving is an act of worship, not a mere transaction (Philippians 4:18). • Offerings reflect the giver’s heart (Proverbs 3:9-10). Practical Ways to Give God Our Best Today Time • Schedule time with Him first in the day, not if-there’s-time-left. • Protect the Lord’s Day for gathered worship and rest. Talents • Use skills and spiritual gifts with excellence, whether teaching a class or changing diapers in the nursery (1 Peter 4:10-11). • Pursue growth and training so what you offer improves over time. Treasures • Give the first portion of income, not what remains after bills (Proverbs 3:9). • Budget generosity: missions, benevolence, local church, spontaneous needs. Work & Study • Aim for workmanship that glorifies Christ: “Whatever you do…do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus.” (Colossians 3:17). • Reject mediocrity; strive for integrity and diligence. Relationships • Offer the “fat” of attention to family, spouse, friends—quality, undistracted presence. • Forgive quickly; love sacrificially (Ephesians 5:2). Worship & Devotion • Sing, pray, and read Scripture with full engagement, not multitasking. • Come prepared—rested, repentant, expectant. Body & Lifestyle • Present your bodies “as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God” (Romans 12:1). • Honor Him in diet, exercise, purity, and stewardship of health. Scripture Echoes: Consistent Call Throughout the Bible • Exodus 23:19—bring “the best of the firstfruits.” • 2 Samuel 24:24—David: “I will not offer…that which costs me nothing.” • Mark 12:30—love God with “all” heart, soul, mind, strength. • 1 Corinthians 10:31—“Whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” Guardrails Against Half-hearted Offerings • Watch for a “leftover mentality” in budgets and calendars. • Combat distraction—phones off during devotions and services. • Plan giving and serving rather than waiting for convenience. • Invite accountability from mature believers who will ask, “Is this your best?” The Motivating Reality of God’s Best for Us • The Father gave His “only begotten Son” (John 3:16) — the ultimate, flawless sacrifice. • We were redeemed “with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or spot.” (1 Peter 1:19). • Because God withheld nothing, responding with our best is not duty alone; it is grateful, joyful worship. |
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