Leviticus 22:20 – “You must not present anything (to God as an offering) that has a flaw.”

As I read, prayed, and mused on the Word of God today, I was challenged by a thought that had resided in my heart for quite some time. “Only the Best.”

That statement is inconclusive and easily misconstrued without explanation. In Leviticus 22:20, we read, “You MUST NOT present anything (to God as an offering) that has a flaw.”   In verse 22, it is even more detailed. The thought and truth is, “Only the Best” is acceptable to God.   That includes us.

What we give or dedicate to God cannot be flawed.  Half-heartedness is a flawed offering.  Lackadaisical service is a flawed offering.  What we give God must be whole, complete, total, and pure! He accepts nothing less!

Often, I hear the lament that the gifts of the Holy Spirit are not manifested in life or in the church.  One reason is our failure to understand the purpose of the gifts and our failure to give God a pure vessel to use.

1 Corinthians 12:17 reveals the purpose of the manifestation and operation of the gifts – “for the benefit(development) of everyone.”  In 1 Corinthians 13, we have the platform for the operation of the gifts- LOVE!

I suggest reading 1 Corinthians 12:31 as an introduction to 1 Corinthians 13. Paul says, “Eagerly desire and seek the greater gifts.” Then he continues, “And NOW I will show you a way that is beyond comparison.” That leads to 1 Corinthians 13.

Do we want more of God’s manifestation in our lives and churches?   Love is the key and catalyst.  Love God.  Love others.  Love who God designed us to be.

It is impossible to consistently manifest and exhibit the characteristics of 1 Corinthians 13 through willpower.  Only a transformed heart will consistently manifest patience, kindness, lack of envy, or self-explanation. Only a transformed heart has the ability to consistently avoid rudeness, selfishness, anger, and resentment. Only the transformed consistently desire truth, justice, and endure the burdens of others. Maintaining an attitude of gratitude and hope!

1 Corinthians 14:1, the apostle reminds us of the power and need of this gift to God – Love!   In 1 Corinthians 16:14, we realize that the foundation of all we are and do is Love!

Love is not words, nor a feeling; it is action. It’s an attitude and commitment. It is purpose-driven, seeking the best good for God, others, and ourselves. Only the Best is acceptable! Give God your best, and He gives you His Best!

LORD, help us to offer you our best so we can receive your best!