How can we apply the principle of using our best for God today? Setting the Scene: God Specifies the Finest “Take the finest spices: 500 shekels of liquid myrrh, half that amount (250 shekels) of fragrant cinnamon, 250 shekels of fragrant cane,” (Exodus 30:23) The Lord did not invite Moses to scrape together whatever herbs were handy. He spelled out exact weights, rare ingredients, and the superlative word “finest.” The message is unmistakable: for what belongs uniquely to God, only the best will do. Why God Desires Our Best • His nature is holy (Isaiah 6:3); excellence reflects His character. • He is worthy of honor that surpasses any earthly authority (Malachi 1:8). • Precise obedience demonstrates trust in the literal reliability of His word. Old Testament Echoes of the Principle • Firstfruits: “Honor the LORD with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your harvest” (Proverbs 3:9). • Unblemished sacrifices (Leviticus 22:19–20). • The cautionary tale: “Cursed is the deceiver… who sacrifices a blemished animal to the LORD” (Malachi 1:14). New Testament Reinforcement • Whole-being service: “Whatever you do, work at it with your whole being, for the Lord and not for men” (Colossians 3:23). • All-encompassing love: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart… soul… mind… strength” (Mark 12:30). • Living sacrifices: “Offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God” (Romans 12:1). • Everyday excellence: “Whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all to the glory of God” (1 Corinthians 10:31). Translating the Principle into Daily Life 1. Time • Prioritize personal worship and Scripture first, not squeezed-in leftovers. 2. Talents • Employ gifts—teaching, hospitality, craftsmanship—at full capacity for Kingdom work. 3. Work Ethic • Deliver quality that would satisfy Christ as your supervisor. 4. Material Resources • Budget so that generosity to church and missions comes off the top, not what remains. 5. Relationships • Invest focused, undistracted attention in family and fellow believers, reflecting God’s attentive love. 6. Thought Life • Filter entertainment and media through Philippians 4:8 standards of “whatever is excellent.” Guarding the Sacredness of What We Offer • Examine motives—seek God’s glory, not applause (Matthew 6:1). • Maintain integrity—refuse shortcuts that mar quality. • Repent quickly when complacency creeps in; half-hearted service insults the One who gave His all. A Lifestyle Pattern of Excellence Giving God our finest is not a special project; it is a continual posture. The same Lord who counted shekels of spice counts the minutes, abilities, and choices we place on His altar. When excellence costs us time, convenience, or reputation, we remember the costlier gift He first provided—Christ Himself. Offering our best simply mirrors the lavish grace we have literally received. |
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