How can we apply the principle of dedication found in Exodus 13:11 today? The Principle Revealed “ ‘When the LORD brings you into the land of the Canaanites and gives it to you, as He swore to you and your fathers,’ ” (Exodus 13:11). God commanded Israel to dedicate every firstborn—human and animal—to Him. The act recognized His deliverance, His ownership, and His faithfulness to covenant promises. Why the Call Still Echoes • God’s character and ownership have not changed (Psalm 24:1). • Redemption remains central; the firstborn pointed ahead to Christ, “the firstborn over all creation” (Colossians 1:15). • Believers are redeemed people who now live set-apart lives (1 Peter 2:9). Practical Ways to Live Dedicated Lives Today First and Best • Put God first in daily schedule—beginning the day with Scripture and prayer gives Him the “first moments.” • Budget with “firstfruits” giving (Proverbs 3:9-10); set aside the tithe before spending anything else. Family and Children • Present newborns to the Lord publicly as a testimony, following Luke 2:22-23. • Teach children early that they belong to God, praying over their future callings (Deuteronomy 6:6-7). Time and Talents • Block off weekly time for gathered worship (Hebrews 10:25). • Identify spiritual gifts and deploy them in service (1 Peter 4:10). Work and Possessions • Dedicate workplaces and tools, asking God to use them for His glory (Colossians 3:23-24). • Hold possessions loosely; practice regular generosity (2 Corinthians 9:6-8). Body and Lifestyle • Offer “your bodies as living sacrifices” (Romans 12:1). • Guard purity, what you watch, and what you consume, honoring the One who redeemed you (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). Daily Habits That Reinforce Dedication • Begin each task with a silent “This is Yours, Lord.” • Keep a gratitude list, reminding yourself everything is received, not earned. • Review the week every Lord’s Day, asking, “Did my choices reflect that I belong to Him?” Scriptures to Keep in View • Numbers 3:13; Luke 2:22-23 — Dedication of firstborn. • James 1:18 — We are “a kind of firstfruits of His creatures.” • Hebrews 12:23 — Registered in heaven as the “assembly of the firstborn.” Living the Legacy Dedication in Exodus 13:11 was a concrete reminder that Israel’s story was God’s story. When believers today consciously set aside the first and best of every sphere—family, time, resources, and selves—they echo that same confession: “We are Yours, Lord, because You redeemed us.” |
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