May 19

So all who had willing hearts, both men and women, came and brought brooches and earrings, rings and necklaces, and all kinds of gold jewelry. And they all presented their gold as a wave offering to the LORD. — Exod 35:22 BSB

When the ancient Hebrews were preparing to build the tabernacle for God, they brought the richest and best things they had. They looked at their most valuable possessions and offered them to God.

We should follow the same principle when we give to God. When we give gifts to those we love, we take great care to choose the best and most beautiful things we can find.

But do we always give Christ the best?

Do we give Him the best of our love?

Do we give Him the best of our time, energy, and effort?

Do we do our best work in His service?

Are our gifts to Him the most precious things we have?

The Israelites brought their finest gold jewelry, including medallions, earrings, rings, and necklaces. Nothing was too precious for God.

Is this how we give to God? Or do we sometimes bring Him the smallest gifts we can find? Do we keep the best for ourselves and give Him what’s left over?

This applies to more than just money. It’s also about how we spend our time, our energy, and our talents. Too often, we give God what’s left after we’ve served ourselves first.