What can we learn from the leaders' offerings about giving to God today? Numbers 7:88 at a Glance - “and all the oxen for the sacrifice of the peace offerings were twenty-four bulls, sixty rams, sixty male goats, and sixty male lambs a year old. These were the offerings for the dedication of the altar after it was anointed.” - Twelve tribal leaders had already brought identical gifts day by day; verse 88 totals the grand finale. Key Observations about Their Giving - Abundance: more than 200 animals—extravagant by any standard. - Equality: each tribe offered the same amount; no one out-shone another. - Order and Purpose: every animal suited a specific sacrifice—sin, burnt, or peace—showing thoughtful, intentional worship. - Community Dedication: the offerings were not private but communal, celebrating God’s presence among them. Timeless Principles - Give generously—God is worthy of costly gifts. - Give together—unity in giving strengthens the whole body. - Give intentionally—match the gift to God’s purposes, not personal whims. - Give in response to grace—the altar had been anointed first; their giving followed God’s initiative. Scripture Echoes - 2 Corinthians 9:7: “Each one should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” - Proverbs 3:9: “Honor the LORD with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your harvest.” - Malachi 3:10: “Bring the full tithe into the storehouse… Test Me in this… and see if I will not open the windows of heaven and pour out for you blessing without measure.” - Mark 12:43-44: the widow’s two mites—small in amount, immense in devotion. Living It Out Today - Plan your giving: budget for God first, not last. - Make it a family or church celebration: share testimonies of God’s provision. - Seek balance: combine regular support (tithes) with special, sacrificial gifts when God prompts. - Remember the goal: offerings dedicate our lives, resources, and ministries to the Lord’s service, just as Israel’s gifts consecrated the altar. |
    |