Leviticus 7:4
And the two kidneys, and the fat that is on them, which is by the flankes, and the caule that is aboue the liuer, with the kidneys, it shall he take away. Leviticus 7:4 (KJV)
Leviticus is an Old Testament book that contains laws and instructions given by God to the Israelites through Moses. Chapter 7 specifically deals with the regulations for the guilt offering and the peace offering. Verse 7:4 describes the portion of the sacrifice that was to be taken away: the two kidneys, the fat that is on them and by the flanks, and the caul that is above the liver.
In the Israelite sacrificial system the kidneys were regarded as the seat of the innermost thoughts and emotions, while the fat represented the choicest, best parts of the animal. By removing these specific portions God taught the people to offer their whole selves—thoughts, desires, and motives—to Him, separating them from impurity and ungodliness.
The act of removing the kidneys and surrounding fat emphasized holiness and purity before God. The Israelites were instructed to present their offerings with reverence and a heart seeking to please God. This principle extends to believers today. God desires wholehearted devotion and calls us to separate from anything that hinders our relationship with Him or compromises our holiness.
Although the sacrificial system is no longer practiced, the spiritual principles remain. As Christians we are called to offer our bodies as living sacrifices (Romans 12:1), dedicating our entire selves—including thoughts, desires, and motives—to God. We should examine our hearts, allowing the Holy Spirit to reveal and remove impure thoughts or attitudes that hinder our walk with God. Just as the Israelites physically removed specific parts from the offering, we must actively pursue holiness, continually renewing our minds and aligning our thoughts with God’s Word (Romans 12:2).
In conclusion, Leviticus 7:4 reminds us to offer ourselves completely to God, seeking holiness, purity, and wholehearted devotion in every aspect of life. May we continually present ourselves as living sacrifices, dedicated and pleasing to Him.
