How can we apply the principle of firstfruits in our daily lives? Setting the Scene Leviticus 2 describes the grain offering. Verse 16 summarizes the climax: “The priest is to burn the memorial portion… an aroma pleasing to the LORD.” That “first portion” belonged wholly to God. The heart behind it still speaks today. Why Firstfruits Matter • They declare that everything we have comes from God. • They show trust: giving the first bit means believing more will follow. • They invite God’s blessing on the remainder (Proverbs 3:9-10). Seeing It Across Scripture • Exodus 34:26 – bring “the first of the firstfruits” to the house of the LORD. • Deuteronomy 26:1-11 – rejoice as you present them. • Proverbs 3:9-10 – honor God with first produce, barns overflow. • 1 Corinthians 15:20 – Christ, “the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep.” • James 1:18 – we are “a kind of firstfruits of His creatures.” God loves firsts; they mark ownership, honor, and hope. Living the Principle Daily Time • Start the day with Scripture and prayer before screens or schedules. • Give Him the first slice of major decisions—seek His counsel first, not last. Finances • Tithe or set aside a percentage before paying any bill. • When income is irregular, decide a first-portion formula ahead of time. Talents • Offer the freshest energy to ministry, not only leftovers. • Schedule service projects or church involvement early in the week to signal priority. Harvest of Achievements • Dedicate the first success in a new role or project to God—publicly thank Him. • Celebrate graduations, promotions, or milestones by giving an offering or volunteering. Home & Relationships • Teach children to set aside a tithe from allowance. • Pray over the first meal cooked in a new house, acknowledging God’s provision. Promises That Follow • “Then your barns will be filled with plenty.” (Proverbs 3:9-10) • Malachi 3:10 pictures windows of heaven opened for those who bring the whole tithe. • Romans 11:16 – “If the first portion is holy, the batch is also holy.” God sanctifies the rest when the first is His. Christ, Our Firstfruits Because Jesus rose as the “firstfruits,” every offering of first things now points to resurrection hope. Giving the first part is a small echo of His greater gift and a reminder that more—eternal life—follows. Practical Steps for This Week 1. List every “income stream” (money, time, skills). Mark a first portion for God. 2. Set an automatic transfer or envelope labeled “Firstfruits” before other expenses hit. 3. Block 15 early-morning minutes for undistracted Bible reading; guard it like an appointment. 4. Choose one ability (music, mentoring, hospitality) and schedule its first weekly use for kingdom work. 5. After your next accomplishment, write a brief thanksgiving note to God and share it with someone. Verses to Keep Handy • Leviticus 2:16 – “burn the memorial portion… an aroma pleasing to the LORD.” • Proverbs 3:9 – “Honor the LORD with your wealth, with the firstfruits.” • 1 Corinthians 15:20 – “Christ has been raised… the firstfruits.” • James 1:18 – “We might be a kind of firstfruits.” Giving God the first isn’t loss; it’s the pathway to blessing, joy, and deeper fellowship with the One who gave us His best first. |
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