Give of Your Best

    “If this firstborn animal has any defect, such as being lame or blind, or if anything else is wrong with it, you must not sacrifice it to the LORD your God.”
    Deuteronomy 15:21 NLT

Howard Benjamin Grose had discovered a secret to satisfaction and meaning in life. In 1902, he expressed his discovery in a hymn called “Give of Your Best.”

Grose, who was born on this day in 1851 in Millerton, New York, served as the pastor of several churches. He also was an outstanding educator. He taught history at the University of Chicago and was president of the University of South Dakota.

Grose believed that we must not compromise in our work for God. This applied to every aspect of our lives. He echoed a theme from the Bible when the Israelites were told not to bring the Lord any defective offering. God expected their best.

In his hymn, he wrote, “Give of your best to the Master; give of the strength of your youth.” Instead of holding back, you’re called to “throw your soul’s fresh, glowing ardor into the battle for truth.”

Grose knew that “Jesus has set the example” for all of us. He was willing to lay down His life, totally dedicating Himself to serving the Father. In the same way, we must “give Him first place” in our hearts and service.

The Bible tells us, “Give, and it will be given to you” (Luke 6:38). God gave His best by sending Jesus. We are to gratefully seek to serve Him, and give Him the best that we have.

What are you giving to the Master? Are you giving Him your best, or are you holding back and compromising in your commitment?

Remember that your gifts Sown into God’s Kingdom are investments in your eternal bank account with God. Invest your resources in the things that will last. Give your best to the Master!

Source: http://inspiration.org/give-of-your-best/