How can we apply the principle of giving our best to God today? Setting the Scene Exodus 25:7 lists “onyx stones and other gems to be mounted on the ephod and breastpiece.” These were not leftovers; they were prized treasures from a recently liberated people. God asked for their finest because He deserved, and still deserves, nothing less. Why “Best” Matters to God • God’s nature is excellence; our offerings reflect His worth (Psalm 29:2). • Presenting choice gifts declares wholehearted love rather than half-hearted duty (Malachi 1:8). • Giving our best trains our hearts to trust His provision (Proverbs 3:9-10). New Testament Echoes • Romans 12:1—“present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual act of worship.” • Colossians 3:17—“whatever you do in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus.” • 2 Corinthians 9:7—“God loves a cheerful giver.” Each passage moves the principle from gold and gems to every arena of life—time, talents, resources, motives. Practical Ways to Offer Our Finest Today Time • Set apart the first moments of the day for Scripture and prayer, not the scraps of exhaustion. • Prioritize weekly corporate worship, arranging schedules so God is central, not squeezed in. Talent • Serve in areas of giftedness—music, teaching, craftsmanship—aiming for skillful, Spirit-empowered excellence (Psalm 33:3). • Pursue continual growth; study, practice, improve so offerings mature over time. Treasure • Tithe from gross, not net, income; add free-will offerings as the Spirit prompts (Malachi 3:10; 2 Corinthians 9:6). • Budget generosity first, lifestyle second, demonstrating confidence in God’s provision. Relationships • Offer forgiveness quickly, mirroring God’s lavish grace (Ephesians 4:32). • Invest quality attention in family, friends, neighbors as ambassadors of Christ’s love (John 13:35). Work and Study • Approach every assignment as service to the Lord, delivering punctual, thorough, honest results (Colossians 3:23-24). • Refuse shortcuts or mediocrity that would tarnish the testimony of Christ in the workplace or classroom. Guarding the Heart Behind the Gift • Motivation matters: “If I give all I possess…but have not love, I gain nothing” (1 Corinthians 13:3). • Avoid showiness; give “in secret,” trusting the Father who sees (Matthew 6:3-4). • Remember stewardship: everything already belongs to Him; we’re caretakers returning a portion (1 Chronicles 29:14). Encouragement for Every Season • God values proportional faithfulness, not equal amounts—widow’s mites still delight Him (Luke 21:1-4). • Seasons of limitation invite creativity: a heartfelt note, a shared meal, consistent intercession can be “onyx stones” when resources are lean. • The ultimate “best” is ourselves—daily yielded to Christ, awaiting the day He perfects our offering forever (Philippians 1:6). Let’s keep bringing the finest stones of our lives to His dwelling place, confident He receives them with joy and multiplies them for His glory. |
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