In what ways can we honor God through our resources as seen in Numbers 28:12? Setting the Scene in Numbers 28:12 “Along with three-tenths of an ephah of fine flour mixed with oil as a grain offering for each bull, two-tenths of an ephah of fine flour mixed with oil for the ram, and a tenth of an ephah of fine flour mixed with oil for each of the seven lambs.” (Numbers 28:12) What the Verse Shows About Honoring God with Resources • Fine flour and oil were the best staples of ancient Israel. God asked for quality, not leftovers. • Specific measurements point to intentional, thoughtful giving rather than haphazard charity. • Different amounts for bull, ram, and lamb underscore proportionality—larger responsibility requires greater offering. • The grain offering complemented the animal sacrifice, teaching that every kind of resource (produce, livestock, income, skills) belongs to the Lord. Principles We Can Apply Today • Offer the best, not the bare minimum – Proverbs 3:9-10: “Honor the LORD with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your harvest.” – Our modern “fine flour” might be the first portion of a paycheck, prime talents, or prime time. • Give purposefully and precisely – 1 Corinthians 16:2: “On the first day of every week, each of you should set aside a portion of his income…” – Planned generosity reflects careful obedience, just as the priests weighed out flour by the ephah. • Give in proportion to blessing – Luke 12:48: “…from everyone who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked.” – Numbers 28:12’s larger offering for a bull reminds us that greater capacity calls for greater generosity. • Dedicate diverse resources – Hebrews 13:16: “And do not neglect to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.” – Money, possessions, hospitality, expertise, and influence can be “mixed with oil” (set apart) for God’s use. • Keep the rhythm of regular worship-giving – Numbers 28 describes daily, Sabbath, monthly, and festival offerings. – Consistent giving—weekly, monthly, yearly—keeps the heart anchored in worship rather than in wealth. • Let giving echo Christ’s ultimate sacrifice – Ephesians 5:2: “Christ loved us and gave Himself up for us as a fragrant offering…” – Our resources become a thankful response to the once-for-all offering of Jesus. Practical Ways to Live It Out 1. Budget “firstfruits” at the top line, not what’s left at month’s end. 2. Tie giving goals to income brackets—percentage, not random amounts. 3. Support local church ministries that spread the gospel and meet needs. 4. Set aside a “grain offering” of non-cash assets: skills, tools, rooms, vehicles. 5. Review giving regularly—are you still bringing fine flour, or has it become coarse meal? Why It Matters Honoring God through our resources affirms His ownership, trains our hearts to trust, fuels gospel work, and showcases the beauty of cheerful obedience (2 Corinthians 9:7). Just as Israel mixed fine flour with oil, we blend our lives with the Spirit’s leading, turning everyday assets into fragrant worship before the Lord. |
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