"And this your heave offering shall be reckoned unto you, as though it were the corn of the threshingfloor, and as the fulness of the winepress."
Context:The book of Numbers records the events that took place during the Israelites’ journey from Mount Sinai to the edge of the Promised Land. It contains various instructions given by God to Moses concerning the organisation and responsibilities of the priests, Levites, and the people of Israel. Numbers 18 specifically focuses on the responsibilities and privileges of the Levites, who were set apart for service in the tabernacle.
The Heave Offering:In the Old Testament, the heave offering was a portion of the offering that was presented to the priests. It was given to the Lord by the people and then “heaved” or lifted up by the priests as an offering to God. The heave offering was a symbol of dedicating something to God and acknowledging His provision and ownership over all things.
Reckoned as the Corn of the Threshing Floor:In Numbers 18:27, the Lord instructed the Levites that the heave offering they received from the people was to be considered as though it were the corn from the threshing floor. The threshing floor was the place where the grain harvest was processed. It was a significant part of the agricultural economy, and the grain from the threshing floor represented a valuable provision from God.
Reckoned as the Fullness of the Winepress:Similarly, the Lord instructed the Levites that the heave offering was to be regarded as the fullness of the winepress. The winepress was where grapes were crushed to extract the juice, which was used to produce wine. Wine was considered a precious and valuable commodity in ancient times, and the fullness of the winepress symbolised abundance and blessing.
Spiritual Lessons:
- Recognition of God’s Provision:By designating the heave offering as the corn of the threshing floor and the fullness of the winepress, God reminded the Levites and the people of Israel that all their provisions came from Him. It emphasised the importance of recognising God’s role as the ultimate provider of their physical needs.
- Dedication and Surrender:The act of presenting the heave offering signified a dedication and surrender of the people’s possessions to God. It demonstrated their acknowledgment that everything they possessed belonged to Him, and they were willing to offer a portion back to Him in gratitude and obedience.
- Generosity and Trust:The heave offering also encouraged the people to be generous and trust in God’s provision. It required faith to give a portion of their harvest and wealth, trusting that God would continue to bless them abundantly.
- Spiritual Application:While the Old Testament laws and practices regarding offerings and sacrifices have been fulfilled in Christ (Hebrews 10:1-18), we can still draw spiritual principles from this verse. As believers, we are called to recognise God as the ultimate provider, dedicate our possessions and lives to Him, practice generosity, and trust in His provision.
Remember to study the Bible in its entirety and seek further understanding through prayer, meditation, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
