“Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ.” Colossians 3:23-24(ESV)
What is Your Best?
Walk His Way Revisited
First Posted in May, 2014
When we were studying the Book of Leviticus, I’ve naturally been thinking a lot about sacrifice. People were required to bring their sacrifice, whether it was a bull or a bird, and it had to be spotless and free of all blemishes. Oh, what those priests had to go through! What a messy, all-encompassing job! And it wasn’t even their sacrifice; they were doing this on the behalf of others. What a drag! Just take a moment, and pause to thank Jesus for being our ultimate Sacrifice.
So, what about the sacrifices we give today? The normal things come to mind—tithing (still a hot topic for many), offering to help someone move, giving up a weekend to watch your friends’ children so that they can have a much-needed break…
What about the sacrifice of praise? I remember a song we used to sing in the eighties: *“We bring the sacrifice of praise, into the house of the Lord…” Frankly, that song never made much sense to me at the time, but I was happy enough to sing and clap along. Today, as a worshiper, it makes more sense. I don’t always feel like worshiping God. Maybe I’m mad at Him. Maybe the band is struggling. The “maybes” could fill a book, but the question is, what am I going to give Him? I love making music more than anything, but in those times when I don’t feel like it, am I still going to give my best?
My abilities are not the same as others’, but if I’m giving it my all, then my best is as good as what others are bringing to the table. And ladies, we have GOT to stop comparing our own abilities, and we need to stop comparing others’ abilities. I am often compared to those I serve with. Sometimes the comments on what I bring are negative, and sometimes they are positive, but the positive is sometimes at someone else’s expense, as they’re saying they like what I do better. But here’s the thing: My best isn’t going to look the same as someone else’s best. Your best isn’t going to look the same as someone else’s best.
I’ve used worship as an example, but this applies to every sacrifice we bring before the Lord. You have millions to give, or you have two mites. You can sing like an angel, or croak like a frog. You have the ability to make things beautiful, or maybe your efforts look like those of a preschooler. But whatever it is, give it yourbest, keep your heart in the right place, and remember….God isn’t comparing.
Father, may my best be unto You, and You only. In Jesus’ name, I bind the enemy from clouding my efforts with comparisons. May my offering be as sweet incense. Thank You for gifting me with the sacrifices you want from me, and no one else. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Amen!
Great reminder! Thanks!