Previous Challenge Entry (Level 3 - Advanced)
Topic: ADAGE (10/05/23)
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TITLE: Leftovers or Main Dish | Previous Challenge Entry
By Nnenna Moneme
10/11/23 -
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“Don't let the excitement of youth cause you to forget your Creator.
Honour him in your youth before you grow old and say, ‘Life is not
pleasant anymore.’” Ecclesiastes 12:1 (NLT)
When I relocated to England to live and work, I was faced with understanding the cultural differences and values of the Western world. Coming from Nigeria, a former British colony, I noticed stark differences in worldview and values. One surprising observation was noticing the importance placed on animals in the Western culture. Several people I encountered valued their dogs and cats above some of their family members. Some even went as far as telling me their pet was their child and they preferred having these animals over having human children. More surprising was seeing a complete supermarket section with food items for animals as expensive or more expensive than food for humans. It seemed as though animals were prioritised here; enjoying main dishes while humans received leftovers.
As I tried to make sense of this love for animals, I thought about the contrast in Nigeria where leftovers were given to animals. Humans eat first and whatever remains as leftovers like bones, rice or vegetable waste were given to the family pets (dogs, cats or chickens). As I pondered on this contrast in value system, the word of God in Ecclesiastes 12 began to make sense. I realised that this worldview is similar to how people prioritised spiritual matters and life in general.
Some individual intentionally put God first and giving him their ultimate attention hence treating Him like the main dish. On the other hand, there are those who give God leftovers, neglecting Him for most of their lives and only turning to Him as an afterthought when nearing the grave. These categories of individuals often spend their whole life pursuing money, fame and many more frivolities, later treating God more like an insurance policy in case there is a heaven. There are also those who don't like God telling them what to do. Making money and building houses (although not necessarily wrong) is more valuable than answering the call to ministry.
The argument of whether animals or humans should be valued more is not the point here. The main focus is on the value system we adopt, which determines who receives the main dish and who gets leftovers. In Ecclesiastes 12:1-14, Solomon highlighted the wisdom of serving God in our youth as this means we give Him our best or main dish. Conversely, those who delay until they were old and tired find themselves unable to accomplish much. Jesus also emphasised the urgency of doing His fathers’ work while there is still time as the night comes when no one can work (John 9:4).These two scriptures make it clear that the Lord is interested in receiving our very best throughout our journey here.
So, are you currently serving God or postponing it for later? Later may come with the burden of sickness or old age where you are limited and only able to give your leftovers. It is important to give God the main dish, offering Him your best time, resources, and dedication, as this is the only aspect of life that holds eternal value. As the popular adage says, "Make hay while the sun shines.” Reflect on this truth today and consider making changes in your life. Jesus gave His all for us, so it is only right to give Him our hearts and service in return.
Suggested further reading: Ecclesiastes 12:1-14, John 9 and 1 Timothy 4:12
Reflection
Take a moment to evaluate where your highest pursuit in life lies. For example, are you predominantly focused on making money, seeking fame, or climbing the career ladder? Consider whether these pursuits align with God's will for your life.
How can you begin aligning your pursuits with God's plan for your life and His kingdom? Make a conscious effort to prioritise Him in your decisions and actions.
Prayer
Father Lord, I humbly ask for your forgiveness for treating You as an afterthought in my life. Help me to give You my best now without procrastination. Guide me in aligning my pursuits with Your plan for my life and Your kingdom. Amen.
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and those who put everything else before God.