Giving Our Best
Today’s scripture selection: Deuteronomy 16-19
Key verse: Deuteronomy 17:1
“Do not sacrifice to the LORD your God an ox or a sheep that has any defect or flaw in it, for that would be detestable.”
I’m glad that my faith doesn’t require animal sacrifice – really glad. The idea of taking a knife to an ox or sheep to express my love for God; or seek His forgiveness; or thank Him for the blessings He has bestowed upon me – well, I’d have a hard time with that.
But there is an important principle in this text from Deuteronomy that I think people of faith sometimes overlook.
We are to give our best to God.
When it comes to showing our love and thanksgiving; when it comes to being willing to admit our wrongdoing and seek forgiveness we shouldn’t do it half-heartedly.
What we give of ourselves; what we give of the possessions He has allowed us to have, as stewards, for awhile shouldn’t be
- What we can come up with after we have met our needs and wants first
- What we decide to put in, to look good to our neighbors, when a collection plate comes our way
- What we think will “grease the wheels a bit” with God – smoothing the way to get something for ourselves
- What we think we “have” to give – because “it’s the rule”.
No, we should never give God our leftovers.
God deserves our best love; our deepest commitment; or joyfully offered praise and service in His name.
In fact, my faith regularly reminds me that God gave His best to the world a long time ago. Remember John 3:16?
“For God so loved the world, that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
So – no defective or flawed giving – give your first, and your best.
Let’s love – as God has loved us.
Prayer: Lord, may I always find joy in giving to, and loving, you. AMEN.
