First, eating fat and blood is forbidden (22-27). The Israelites ate the meat of fellowship offerings. Regarding eating the meat, the LORD gave them two strict regulations: “Do not eat any of the fat… Anyone who eats the fat… must be cut off from his people” (22-25); “You must not eat the blood… If anyone eats blood, that person must be cut off from his people” (26). By prohibiting his people from eating fat and blood, the LORD taught his people the importance of blood and the holiness of an offering. Blood represents the life of an animal. Blood, or life, was given for our atonement, as Jesus gave his blood for our atonement. By claiming the fat portions, God taught his people that their offerings must be done in his way.

Second, the priests’ share (28-36). From the fellowship offerings, the breast and the right thigh were given to the priests (31-34). The breast and thigh were considered better portions and so God blessed those who dedicated their lives to serving him. Though the priests had no earthly inheritance, God provided for his servants on a daily basis through the offerings. When we serve the LORD, he provides us with our daily needs. Our labor in the LORD is not in vain.
Application: Father, thank you for your love. Help me joyfully serve your lost children and believe your great reward for me!
One Word: My great reward in Jesus!