The principle of giving God our best is a recurring theme throughout the Bible, emphasizing the importance of offering our finest efforts, resources, and devotion to God. This principle is rooted in the understanding of God's supreme worthiness and the believer's response to His grace and sovereignty.

Old Testament Foundations

The concept of giving God our best is evident from the earliest biblical narratives. In Genesis 4:3-5, the offerings of Cain and Abel illustrate the significance of the heart and quality behind a gift to God. Abel's offering, described as "the firstborn of his flock and their fat portions," was regarded favorably by God, while Cain's offering was not. This distinction underscores the importance of giving God the best of what we have, reflecting a heart of genuine worship and reverence.

The Mosaic Law further codifies this principle. In Leviticus 22:21, the Israelites are instructed, "When a man presents a peace offering to the LORD to fulfill a vow or as a freewill offering from the herd or flock, it must be without blemish or defect to be acceptable." This requirement for unblemished sacrifices highlights the expectation that offerings to God should be of the highest quality, symbolizing purity and wholehearted devotion.

New Testament Continuation

The New Testament continues to affirm the principle of giving God our best, expanding it beyond material offerings to encompass all aspects of life. In Romans 12:1, the Apostle Paul exhorts believers, "Therefore I urge you, brothers, on account of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God, which is your spiritual service of worship." This call to present oneself as a living sacrifice signifies a total commitment to God, prioritizing His will above personal desires.

Jesus Himself exemplifies and teaches this principle. In Mark 12:41-44, He observes a poor widow who contributes two small coins to the temple treasury. Despite the modesty of her gift, Jesus commends her, saying, "Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others." Her offering, given out of poverty, represents the best she had, demonstrating that the value of a gift is measured by the heart and sacrifice behind it.

Practical Implications

The principle of giving God our best extends to various facets of Christian life, including time, talents, and treasures. Believers are encouraged to serve God with excellence, as seen in Colossians 3:23-24: "Whatever you do, work at it with your whole being, for the Lord and not for men, because you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as your reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving." This passage calls for diligence and wholeheartedness in all endeavors, recognizing that every action is ultimately an offering to God.

In financial stewardship, 2 Corinthians 9:7 emphasizes the attitude behind giving: "Each one should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver." The principle here is not merely about the amount given but the willingness and joy in giving, reflecting a heart that prioritizes God above material wealth.

Conclusion

The principle of giving God our best is a profound expression of faith and devotion, rooted in the recognition of God's ultimate worthiness. It calls believers to offer their finest in every aspect of life, motivated by love, gratitude, and reverence for the Creator.