"Therefore thou shalt say unto them, When ye have heaved the best thereof from it, then it shall be counted unto the Levites as the increase of the threshingfloor, and as the increase of the winepress."
Context:The book of Numbers is part of the Pentateuch, also known as the Torah or the Law of Moses. It contains instructions given by God to the Israelites during their journey from Egypt to the Promised Land. In this particular verse, God is speaking to Moses and providing instructions regarding the tithes and offerings to be given to the Levites, who served as priests in the tabernacle.
Heaved offering:The term "heaved" refers to lifting up or presenting a portion of something as an offering to God. In this verse, it specifically refers to the tithes that the Israelites were to give. The tithes were a tenth of their produce or livestock and were given to support the Levites, who did not receive an inheritance of land like the other tribes. The Levites, in turn, were responsible for the service of the tabernacle and ministering to the people.
The best thereof:The verse instructs the Israelites to heave the best portion of their tithes. This indicates that God expected them to offer their first and finest produce as an expression of their gratitude and devotion. By offering the best, they acknowledged God’s provision and recognised that everything they had came from Him.
Increase of the threshing floor and winepress:The verse further explains that when the Israelites presented the best portion of their tithes, it would be counted or considered as the increase of the threshing floor and winepress. The threshing floor was where grain was separated from the chaff, while the winepress was used to extract juice from grapes for making wine. These agricultural references highlight the connection between the people’s livelihood and their offerings to God.
Spiritual principles:This verse teaches us several spiritual principles. Firstly, it emphasises the importance of giving back to God a portion of what He has blessed us with. Tithing was a way for the Israelites to honour God and support His work. Today, giving a portion of our income to support the work of the church and those in need is still a relevant practice.
Secondly, the instruction to offer the best portion of the tithes reminds us to give sacrificially and with a heart of generosity. It reflects an attitude of putting God first and offering Him our very best.
Lastly, the mention of the increase of the threshing floor and winepress encourages us to recognise God’s blessing and provision in our lives. Just as the Israelites acknowledged God’s role in their agricultural abundance, we should acknowledge His provision and blessings in all areas of our lives.
Overall, Numbers 18:30 teaches us about the importance of giving back to God, doing so with a generous heart, and acknowledging His provision and blessing in our lives.
