Why is it important to offer our best to God, as seen here? The Scene on Araunah’s Threshing Floor 2 Samuel 24:23: “O king, Araunah gives all these things to the king… ‘May the LORD your God accept you.’” David is offered oxen, wood, and the very ground—free of charge. Yet he immediately replies (v. 24), “I will not offer to the LORD my God burnt offerings that cost me nothing.” This moment crystallizes why genuine worship is never cheap or casual. What David Teaches Us about Costly Worship • True worship involves ownership: David insists on purchasing the items so the sacrifice is truly his. • True worship involves value: he refuses anything that would diminish the worth of the God he serves. • True worship involves heartfelt devotion: the king’s personal expense mirrors personal surrender. Why Our Best Matters to God 1. It proclaims His worth • Malachi 1:8 warns against offering blemished animals: “Would your governor be pleased with you?” Offering second best dishonors the King of kings. 2. It reflects gratitude for God’s best • John 3:16 shows God gave His only Son. Our best response rightly echoes His generosity. 3. It trains our hearts • Proverbs 3:9: “Honor the LORD with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops.” Putting Him first reshapes priorities. 4. It demonstrates faith • Abel’s firstborn (Genesis 4:4) and the widow’s two mites (Mark 12:41-44) show trust that God will supply tomorrow when we surrender the best of today. 5. It safeguards holiness • Romans 12:1: “Present your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God.” A costly, wholehearted offering aligns life with God’s purity. Echoes Throughout Scripture • Exodus 12:5 – Passover lambs had to be “without blemish.” • 1 Chronicles 29: David later gives from personal treasury for the temple. • Hebrews 13:15 – Continual “sacrifice of praise” springs from lips and lives that esteem Him. Practical Takeaways for Today • Offer intentional time, not leftover minutes. • Give financial firstfruits before discretionary spending. • Serve with excellence, treating every act as service to the Lord (Colossians 3:23). • Guard purity of heart and body as living sacrifices. • Cultivate an attitude that nothing is too costly when offered to the One who gave everything. David’s refusal of a cost-free gift reminds believers in every age: God deserves our finest, because He is supremely worthy and has already given us His best in Christ. |
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