How can we apply the principle of giving our best to God today? The Verse at a Glance “From the fellowship offering he is to present as an offering made by fire to the LORD the fat tail cut off close to the backbone, the fat that covers the entrails, and all the fat that is on them.” (Leviticus 3:9) Why the Fat Mattered • In the ancient world the fat portions were the richest, most desirable parts of the animal—symbols of abundance and value. • By commanding Israel to place the choicest parts on the altar, God was teaching His people to reserve the best for Him, not the leftovers. • This practice reinforced Israel’s acknowledgment that every blessing ultimately comes from the LORD. Timeless Principle: Best Parts for the Lord • God’s character has not changed; He is still worthy of first place (Malachi 1:6–8). • Honoring Him with the best of what we have demonstrates trust in His provision (Proverbs 3:9–10). • Wholehearted giving reflects wholehearted love (Mark 12:30). What “Our Best” Looks Like Today Time • Set aside the first and freshest moments of the day for Scripture and prayer rather than squeezing Him into spare moments. • Guard Lord’s-Day worship as a priority instead of an optional add-on to the weekend. Talents • Identify skills God has entrusted—teaching, hospitality, administration, creativity—and put them to work for the good of His people (1 Peter 4:10–11). • Prepare diligently; offering excellence in service shows reverence for the One we serve (Colossians 3:23–24). Treasure • Give proportionately and cheerfully (2 Corinthians 9:6–8). • Budget in such a way that generosity to kingdom work receives line-item status ahead of personal whims. Words • Use speech to build up, bless, and point others to Christ (Ephesians 4:29). • Speak truth seasoned with grace—our tongues become living sacrifices as well (Romans 12:1). Attitudes • Offer obedience even when unseen; God weighs motives (1 Samuel 16:7). • Cultivate thankfulness so giving remains an act of gratitude, not obligation (Psalm 116:12–14). Motives that Honor the Lord • Love: “We love because He first loved us.” (1 John 4:19) • Trust: Faith releases generosity; fear withholds. • Worship: Every gift, task, or moment can be placed on the altar as an act of worship (Romans 12:1). Encouragement from Other Scriptures • Genesis 4:4 – Abel’s offering of “fat portions” pleases God. • Exodus 35:21 – Hearts stirred to give willingly for the tabernacle. • 2 Chronicles 31:5 – Israelites bring the firstfruits abundantly. • Philippians 2:17 – Paul pictures himself poured out like a drink offering. Wrap-Up Leviticus 3:9 reminds us that the LORD deserves the prime portions of everything He’s entrusted to us. When we place the best of our time, talents, treasure, words, and attitudes on His altar, we echo ancient worshipers who laid the choicest fat before Him—and we discover afresh the joy of living lives wholly devoted to our gracious God. |
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