How can we apply the principle of giving our best to God today? The Original Instruction: An Unblemished Offering “ ‘But if his offering to the LORD is a burnt offering from the flock, from the sheep or goats, he shall present an unblemished male.’ ” (Leviticus 1:10) The requirement is clear: nothing damaged, second-rate, or half-hearted—the animal had to be flawless. The Heart Behind the Command • God Himself is perfect; He deserves offerings that reflect His holiness. • An “unblemished” gift points to wholehearted devotion, not mere duty. • The burnt offering was wholly consumed, symbolizing total surrender. Why the Principle Still Matters Today • Hebrews 13:8 reminds us Jesus Christ is “the same yesterday and today and forever.” God’s standards have not changed. • Malachi 1:8 shows God’s displeasure when people offered crippled animals; the lesson echoes through the centuries. • Romans 12:1 calls believers to present their bodies as “a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God.” Practical Ways to Give God Our Best 1. Time – Schedule personal worship when you are most alert, not just leftovers. 2. Talents – Serve in areas of gifting with preparation and excellence (Colossians 3:23). 3. Treasures – Budget first-fruits giving; generosity reflects trust (Proverbs 3:9). 4. Thought Life – Guard what you consume; offer a mind renewed by Scripture (Philippians 4:8). 5. Relationships – Pursue reconciliation promptly; love sincerely (Matthew 5:23-24). 6. Work Ethic – Deliver quality that honors Christ before bosses or clients (Ephesians 6:7). Checks for the Heart • Motivation: Is love for God driving the effort? (Mark 12:30) • Attitude: Is there joy rather than resentment? (2 Corinthians 9:7) • Integrity: Is what’s done in public matched in private? (Psalm 139:1-4) Encouragement from Other Scriptures • 2 Samuel 24:24 — “I will not offer to the LORD my God burnt offerings that cost me nothing.” • Proverbs 11:24-25 — Generosity leads to blessing. • Philippians 2:17 — Paul sees his life poured out as a drink offering, rejoicing in sacrificial service. Living It Out This Week • Review one area (time, talents, treasures) where you’ve settled for “good enough.” • Replace “leftover” moments with scheduled, intentional worship or service. • Prepare a specific gift—financial, practical, or relational—that represents excellence and faith. Final Thought Unblemished sacrifices foreshadowed the perfect Lamb, Jesus (1 Peter 1:19). Because He gave His best for us, we respond in kind—offering the finest of who we are and what we have, all for His glory. |
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