That generation maintained a relationship with God through the Tabernacle. God believed their children would want to give freewill and fellowship offerings – an aroma pleasing to the LORD – to mark their relationship and thankfulness to God. God reiterated the rules of offerings to instruct how to demonstrate love to God practically. This applies to all regardless of cultural background (13-16). Today we come to God through Jesus, our great High Priest, who died for our sins once for all, fulfilling the Old Testament sacrificial system. We show our love today through hearing and obeying Jesus (Jn 14:21) and offering ourselves as living sacrifices, pleasing to God (Ro 12:1). We must show each generation how to do so practically, by our example and instruction.

In the wilderness every bite and drink were provided by God through manna and springs. But in the land they would be blessed abundantly with harvests. To remember and keep a thankful heart to God, the first of the ground meal was to be given to God as an offering. It is easy to think our labor and wealth provides for us; but all that we have is to be received from God with thanksgiving. We are to seek God and his kingdom first (Mt 6:33), trusting in his provision for all our needs.


Application: Father, thank you for providing all for us. Help us respond by offering ourselves and our materials in a way that pleases you.
One Word: Offer ourselves as a living sacrifice