"Never sacrifice a sick or defective ox or sheep to the LORD your God, for he detests such gifts." Deuteronomy 17:1 NLT

It would have been a temptation for the Israelites to offer the culls of their herd to God since as an offering they would die anyway and they were of no use to the farmer. But cast offs are not acceptable to God. What has no value to the worshiper has no value to God as an offering. He desires the best one has to offer and He is worthy of the best.

We face the same temptation to give God our leftovers. Leftover money after we have bought all we desire with our money. Leftover time after we have accomplished all we intended with our time. Leftover ability after we have done all we could to profit our self with our abilities. But God desires and deserves our first and best not our last and least. What we offer Him speaks of how we value Him.

Father, You are worthy of the best I have. Forgive me for when I have brought you the leftovers rather than the first fruits. Today I will give you the best and first recognizing that all I have comes from You and belongs to You.

I'm praying for you.
Pastor Mark