Are We Giving God the Leftovers?

 The King deserves the best version of you, not just the worn-out you,

Think about relationships. Many of us gave the best version of ourselves; youthful energy, focus, passion, even physical strength to people who never appreciated it. Then, when we finally find someone who truly values us, we often hand them the tired, complacent, “just love me as I am” version.

Now pause. Isn’t that exactly how many of us treat the Kingdom of God?

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Giving Our Best Away to the World

When we were chasing careers, fame, relationships, and recognition, we went all in. Long hours. Extra effort. Sacrifices. We showed up early, stayed late, put in the grind, and gave it everything we had. But when it comes to the Kingdom, the place where our obedience and devotion actually matter, we often bring a lukewarm; half-hearted version of ourselves.

Jesus challenged this mindset when He said:

“These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me.” Matthew 15:8

We expect God to accept us “as is” while giving Him the leftovers of our time, energy, and passion. Yet we gave the world our best drive, best years, best creativity, and best effort.

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The Comfort Mentality in Faith

Just like in relationships, comfort creeps into faith. We tell ourselves, “God loves me as I am.” And while that’s true, His love is never an excuse for complacency. Acceptance doesn’t mean apathy. The Kingdom isn’t about being comfortable, it’s about being committed.

Paul reminds us of the proper posture:

“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” Colossians 3:23

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Retired from the Fight?

Some believers live with a “retirement mentality” in their walk with God. They say, “I’ve served my time, I’ve done my part. I just want peace now.” But the Kingdom doesn’t run on seniority. Jesus didn’t retire at the cross; He surrendered to the very end.

Paul urges us:

“Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God; this is your true and proper worship.” Romans 12:1

Our best offering isn’t behind us, it’s still required today.

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The Fear Factor

Some stop giving their best to God because of past disappointments. They prayed, they served, and life didn’t turn out as they hoped. So they settle into a quiet, minimal faith: showing up at church, saying the right words, but never fully investing again.

But Jesus speaks against lukewarm living:

“Because you are lukewarm, neither hot nor cold, I am about to spit you out of my mouth.” Revelation 3:16

Withholding our best only keeps us from the abundant life the Kingdom promises.

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A Call Back to Excellence

The truth is, the King deserves the best version of you—not just the worn-out you, not just the distracted you, not just the “I’ll do enough to get by” you. He deserves the passionate, disciplined, intentional you—the version that once gave everything for things that never lasted.

Jesus gave His all. Shouldn’t our response be to do the same?

“But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” Matthew 6:33