Scripture
“When you offer blind animals for sacrifice, is that not wrong? When you sacrifice lame or diseased animals, is that not wrong? Try offering them to your governor! Would he be pleased with you? Would he accept you?” says the Lord Almighty.” Malachi 1:8 NIV
Observation
In this chapter God shows a few questions the people had on the relationship of God and His people: “How have you loved us?”, “How have we shown contempt your name?” and “How have we defied you?”
The Bible verse above talks about the offerings that were done just as a ritual and not to show honor to God.
At that time, animal offerings and sacrifices were a must for the astonishment of the people’s sins. There were guidelines to be followed and one was that the animal must be in perfect condition, without any defects. The offerings were always about giving the best… the best animals, the first fruits.
Application
Today, there is no need of offering animals as a sacrifice, but the value behind it is still the same.
Are we presenting ourselves at God’s service with our best? Are we honoring God with the things we give to Him? Are we giving the first fruits of our harvests to Him, believing that he is our provider and this becomes a gesture of giving back a part of what he gives us?
“My name will be great among the nations, from where the sun rises to where it sets. In every place incense and pure offerings will be brought to me, because my name will be great among the nations,” says the Lord Almighty.” Malachi 1:11 NIV
Prayer
Heavenly Father, may the words of my months, and the attitude of my heart be like an acceptable offering to you. May I honor you also by giving back part of what I have received from you. You are my provider. In Jesus’ name, I pray.
