Don't Substitute (Leviticus 27:10)

Taking shortcuts in product manufacturing has been in the news recently. We read of melamine, a toxic plastic compound, added to baby products, milk, and pet food as a substitute for protein. The tragic result is injury and death. The uproar and scrutiny continues. Unfortunately, more shortcuts are being taken as duplicitous companies seek to enhance their bottom line, regardless of the horrific cost in health and life. Even some olive oil companies are substituting less expensive sunflower seed oil and passing it off labeled as olive oil.

He shall not exchange it or make a substitute for it, good for bad, or bad for good; and if he does in fact substitute one animal for another, then both it and the substitute shall be holy.
Leviticus 27:10 (ESV)

When we voluntarily give something, whether material goods or our service, we need to give our very best. There are no substitutes. The Israelites were commanded by God to give Him their best. Substitution was not an option. They had to answer to God, not to their supervisor or boss.

If you have placed your trust in Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior, you will want to give your best to Him, not out of obligation or begrudgingly, but out of gratitude. If Jesus Christ gave His life for you, what sacrifice could be too costly for us to give?

Don’t substitute when giving to God. Give Him your best. He gave you His eternal rest.

Love and trust the Lord; keep our family strong.