Unshakeable DevotionalsSýnishorn

FIRST AND BEST OR SWING THE SWORD?

“Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.” Romans 12:1 (NIV)

In the first battle of the Promised Land, God commanded the Israelites to worship Him, not engage in hand-to-hand combat. Instead of grabbing swords and charging into battle, they were called to march, blow trumpets, and shout in praise. This wasn’t about military strategy; it was about surrendering to God and declaring that He alone was their victory.

In the same way, God asks us to offer our lives to Him—our first and our best—not to rely on our own strength or understanding. This is true worship. When we put God first, even when it doesn’t make sense, He is faithful to provide.

In The Treasure Principle, Randy Alcorn says, “Sometimes giving will seem like it doesn’t make sense, but when we do it, God provides.” Worshipping with our best—whether it’s our time or resources—might not always seem like the most practical choice, but when we surrender in faith, trusting God to provide, He shows us that His ways are always better than ours.

God didn’t want the Israelites to win their first victory by their own might, He wanted them to know that only He delivers victory. The same is true for us today. Our strength doesn’t win the battle—God does. When we offer ourselves fully to Him, we make space for His power to work in ways we can’t imagine.

CHALLENGE:

This week, make a conscious decision to give God your first and best. Reflect on these questions: Do I live in such a way that places Christ as first in all things? Practically speaking, is how I spend my time driven by things that honor God or serve self? In the realm of giving, does my giving affect my saving and spending decisions, or do my saving and spending decisions affect my giving?

PRAYER THOUGHT:

Take a second and think about a time God provided. Remind yourself that he delivers the victory in your life, whether that is financial, relational, or spiritual.