What can we learn about gratitude from the offering in Leviticus 2:9? The Context of Leviticus 2:9 “Then the priest shall take from the grain offering its memorial portion and burn it on the altar, an offering made by fire, a pleasing aroma to the LORD.” (Leviticus 2:9) The grain (or “meal”) offering was a voluntary act of worship. No blood was shed, because this sacrifice was not about atonement; it was about thanksgiving. Fine flour, oil, and frankincense—everyday staples mixed with costly fragrance—were offered to honor the Giver of every harvest. The Memorial Portion: A Tangible Expression of Gratitude • Only “its memorial portion” was burned; the rest became food for the priests (Leviticus 2:10). • By setting aside a representative handful, the worshiper acknowledged that every grain ultimately belonged to the LORD. • The act proclaimed, “I remember Your goodness.” Gratitude and remembrance walk hand-in-hand (cf. Psalm 103:2). A Pleasing Aroma: Gratitude That Delights the LORD • When thanks is offered God’s way, He calls it “a pleasing aroma.” • The smoke rising heavenward pictures gratitude ascending from earth to God (Psalm 141:2). • God takes pleasure not in the size of the gift, but in the heart that gives it (Micah 6:6-8). Key Lessons on Gratitude for Today • Intentionality: The worshiper brought the gift on purpose; gratitude rarely happens by accident (Colossians 3:15). • Proportionality: A small “memorial” symbolized the whole; even brief moments of thanks can sanctify an entire day (1 Timothy 4:4-5). • Priority: The offering happened before the worshiper enjoyed the rest of the harvest; thankful hearts give to God first (Proverbs 3:9). • Dependence: Bread represents life itself; offering it confesses absolute reliance on the LORD (Deuteronomy 8:10-18). • Shared Blessing: Most of the grain became a meal for the priests, showing that gratitude to God often blesses others (2 Corinthians 9:11-12). Living Out These Lessons • Set aside a “memorial portion” of each paycheck—or each day’s time—to acknowledge His provision. • Begin meals or meetings with a brief, sincere thanksgiving, letting gratitude rise like fragrant incense. • Turn everyday resources (food, talents, schedules) into offerings that serve others, demonstrating that thankful hearts are generous hearts. • Keep a gratitude journal to remember His works; recorded remembrance fuels future praise (Psalm 77:11-12). Supporting Scriptures on Gratitude • “Offer to God a sacrifice of thanksgiving, and fulfill your vows to the Most High.” (Psalm 50:14) • “Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise—the fruit of lips that confess His name.” (Hebrews 13:15) • “In everything give thanks, for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18) |
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