We have an internal desire to do good. We, therefore, have a desire to show God and others how we mean to do good. Too often, we think good means just doing something good—like bringing offerings before God. God looks deeper; into our heart. He appreciates our doing good, but values more our doing good out of a right heart condition. That often entails making good with people whom with we are in conflict.
“Therefore if you bring your gift to the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar, and go your way. First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift” (Matthew 5:23-25).
RELEVANCE
God has often impressed me that before doing things, to get things in the proper order. After you fail enough, you get that point. He made a big impression on David to do the same. God broke out against Israel one time because they failed to apply the proper order of bringing the Ark of the Covenant into the camp.
“For because you did not do it the first time, the LORD our God broke out against us, because we did not consult Him about the proper order” (1 Chronicles 15:13).
David learned to be sensitive to the Holy Spirit. He understood that what is really relevant is first relevant to God, since God created all. He, therefore, understood how God watches over us to monitor us; monitor our hearts. If we can seek God for truth and allow God to bring our heart into alignment with His, we can offer back to him—and others—offerings of real value and substance.
“The LORD looks down from heaven upon the children of men, to see if there are any who understand, who seek God” (Psalm 14:2).
REFLECT AND RELATE
God always provides grace when we seek Him for truth and change in His direction. Are there some things you need to reconcile with God or others?
REFERENCES
1 Chronicles 15:1-16