SEPTEMBER 4 - Feasting with Focus
3-Year-Bible Reading: Proverbs 23:1–3; Leviticus 7–8
3-Year Bible Devotional Book Available on Amazon.
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“When you sit down to eat with a ruler, observe carefully what is before you, and put a knife to your throat if you are given to appetite. Do not desire his delicacies, for they are deceptive food.” — Proverbs 23:1–3
“This is the law of the burnt offering, of the grain offering, of the sin offering, of the guilt offering, of the ordination offering, and of the peace offering.” — Leviticus 7:37
“And Moses did as the Lord commanded him, and the congregation was assembled at the entrance of the tent of meeting.” — Leviticus 8:4
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Have you ever been super hungry and then found yourself eating way too fast—or way too much—only to regret it afterward? In Proverbs 23:1–3, the writer warns us to be cautious, even when good things are in front of us. Food isn’t the enemy—it’s about learning self-control and remembering who we’re living for.
The offerings in Leviticus 7–8 may seem a bit technical or outdated at first glance, but they show us something powerful: God is a God of order, worship, and purpose. Every offering had a meaning, and the people couldn’t just approach Him however they wanted. They had to come with reverence. Whether it’s a meal or a moment of worship, the Bible is calling us to be intentional—focused on God more than what’s on the table or happening around us.
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THINK ABOUT IT
1. What’s really feeding you? In a world full of “delicacies”—from social media to popularity to achievements—what are you really craving? Are you being filled by things that satisfy for a moment but leave you empty?
2. Worship is more than music: The detailed offerings in Leviticus show that God cares how we come to Him. How can you bring more intention and respect into your daily relationship with God?
3. Discipline protects purpose: Proverbs talks about controlling your appetite. That applies to food, but also your desires, habits, and even emotions. What area of your life could use more self-control to help you stay focused on God?
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BOTTOM LINE
Whether you're sitting at a feast or standing in worship, your focus should be on honoring God with discipline, reverence, and purpose.
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PRAYER
Heavenly Father, thank You for being a God of purpose and order. Help me not to chase after things that only look good on the outside but don’t lead me closer to You. Teach me to live with self-control, to worship You with intention, and to keep my focus on what truly matters. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
