Giving God 100 Percent

Giving God 100 Percent

Miriam

Read: Exodus 15:20-21

As I looked over my daughter’s first-grade progress report, I beamed with pride. She excelled in each of the academic areas and had high marks in social skills. But the handwritten note at the bottom reminded me of one of her most endearing qualities—her enthusiasm. Beside a smiley face, her teacher had written, Whatever we do in class, Holly always gives 110 percent of herself.

Miriam shines as a biblical example of a woman who gave herself to God, 100 percent. As the first female prophet mentioned in the Bible, she was entrusted by God to share his wisdom with the people. Miriam also displayed other gifts after the miraculous crossing of the Red Sea. Although she was probably at least ninety years old, Miriam grabbed a tambourine and continued the song of praise that Moses had begun, leading the women as they danced to the Lord. Whether using her gifts as a prophet, leader, singer, or perhaps a poet, Miriam served God with enthusiasm and joy.

If we’re honest, we have to admit that we don’t always give God our best. It’s tempting to throw ourselves into work, family matters, hobbies, or the pursuit of pleasure and to slack off in spiritual things. We may spend hours crafting a business letter or a presentation, but offer God only quick “bless me” prayers or a few memorized lines before meals. We may take a class to improve our leadership skills, but open God’s Word only on Sunday mornings. While it’s commendable to pursue professional and personal excellence, only our relationship with God and our service for him have eternal value. Whatever we do for him deserves 100 percent of our effort and enthusiasm—or even 110 percent.

Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might.

Ecclesiastes 9:10 (NIV)