SCRIPTURE:
"Then the Lord spoke to Moses, saying: "Speak to the children of Israel, that they bring Me an offering. From everyone who gives it willingly with his heart you shall take My offering."
Exodus 25:1-2 (NKJV)
OBSERVATION:
The Lord instructed Moses to collect an offering, which later would be used to build the tabernacle. What the Lord was looking for was an offering given willingly, by those whose hearts were prompted to give.
APPLICATION:
One night, years ago as I was driving home from Ministry, I remember taking some time to pray. As I drove, I recalled how everything had gone smoothly, how everything had worked out and how all of the tasks had gotten done. I remember how great it felt and found myself asking “Lord, what else do you want me to do for You? What are You calling me to do?”
I sat waiting to hear His grand plan for my life. Then, clear as day, He said “All I want is your heart.” That was not what I was expecting to hear, but it caused me to do some serious self-reflection and to ask myself why I was doing what I was doing. Was it for the pats on the back from others or was it for the Lord? While the intentions of my heart were initially for Him, I sadly began to make it all about me.
While man may look at the outside and what I can do, God cares more about my heart (1 Samuel 16:7). God cares more about who I am becoming, rather than the things I can accomplish, which is why I need to do a regular heart check. The best way I can do that is through my daily devotions, where I can ask myself questions like: Am I giving and serving willingly? Am I more concerned about what people think, rather than what God thinks? Am I making this all about me?
PRAYER:
Father Almighty. Forgive me Lord when I have made this all about myself. Thank You Lord for Your Word that guides, corrects and encourages me daily. May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, this I pray, in Jesus’ name, Amen.
