How can we apply the principle of giving our best to God today? Setting the Scene: What Numbers 15:4 Teaches “then the one presenting his offering shall present to the LORD a grain offering of two-tenths of an ephah of fine flour mixed with a quarter hin of oil.” (Numbers 15:4) • The Israelite was to bring fine flour—sifted, refined, the very best of the harvest. • Oil, costly and carefully pressed, had to be mixed in. • Nothing haphazard, leftover, or second-rate was acceptable; God prescribed excellence. Timeless Principle: God Deserves the First and Finest • The Lord’s clear pattern—whether in sacrifices, firstfruits, or tithes—is that He receives priority. • Proverbs 3:9-10: “Honor the LORD with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your harvest…” • Malachi 1:7-8 exposes half-hearted giving as dishonor. • Romans 12:1 brings the principle forward: our bodies—our whole selves—are now the living sacrifice. Practical Ways to Give Our Best Today 1. Finances • Budget the tithe or first portion before any other expense. • Give cheerfully and intentionally (2 Corinthians 9:6-8). 2. Time • Schedule daily time with God first, not last. • Set aside one day in seven for worship and rest, guarding it from lesser commitments. 3. Talents and Skills • Serve in the local church or community with the abilities He has entrusted to you. • Pursue excellence in your craft “as working for the Lord” (Colossians 3:23). 4. Relationships • Offer your best words—encouragement, truth, forgiveness—reflecting Christ’s love. 5. Thought Life • Filter media, conversations, and plans through Philippians 4:8, keeping the mind pure. Heart Posture Behind the Gift • God measures the heart before the amount (Mark 12:41-44, the widow’s two coins). • Cheerful surrender, not reluctant duty, pleases Him. • Gratitude fuels generosity; remember the cross, where He first gave His best for us (John 3:16). Warnings and Encouragements from Other Passages • Cain’s casual offering ended in rejection and jealousy (Genesis 4:3-7). • Ananias and Sapphira’s half-truth generosity led to judgment (Acts 5:1-11). • Conversely, the Macedonian churches, though poor, “gave beyond their ability” and were blessed (2 Corinthians 8:1-5). Blessings That Follow Wholehearted Giving • Spiritual abundance: “your barns will be filled with plenty” (Proverbs 3:10)—God supplies needs, not greeds. • Deeper intimacy: sacrificial giving aligns our hearts with His. • Eternal impact: treasures are laid up in heaven where nothing can destroy them (Matthew 6:19-21). |
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