How can we apply the principle of offering firstfruits in our daily lives? Setting the Scene: Deuteronomy 26:4 “Then the priest shall take the basket from your hands and place it before the altar of the LORD your God.” Why Firstfruits Still Matter • Firstfruits signal that the Lord receives the first and best, never the leftovers (Proverbs 3:9–10). • They declare trust that God will supply the rest (Malachi 3:10). • They remind believers that every harvest—salary, talent, breath—belongs to Him (Psalm 24:1). Practical Firstfruits Living Money • Set aside the tithe when income first arrives, not after expenses (Leviticus 27:30; 1 Corinthians 16:2). • Automate transfers or separate envelopes so the first portion never mingles with general spending. Time • Offer the opening minutes of each day in Scripture and praise (Psalm 5:3). • Reserve the first day of the week for gathered worship and service (Acts 20:7). Talents & Skills • Deploy abilities for kingdom projects before personal projects—teach, design, code, cook, mentor. • Treat every new opportunity as a “fresh harvest” and dedicate a portion to God’s work (1 Peter 4:10). Relationships • Give loved ones the “firstfruits” of attention—unhurried eye contact, listening, prayer—before screens and tasks (Ephesians 5:15–16). • Introduce children to giving early, letting them bring a first slice of allowance or birthday money to church (Deuteronomy 6:6–7). Decisions • Seek God’s counsel first, not as a last resort (Matthew 6:33; James 1:5). • When a promotion, purchase, or move appears, place it before the Lord’s altar in prayer and Scripture before signing. Promises Attached to Firstfruits • “Honor the LORD with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your harvest; then your barns will be filled with plenty” (Proverbs 3:9–10). • “Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse… ‘Test Me in this,’ says the LORD of Hosts, ‘and see if I will not open the windows of heaven’” (Malachi 3:10). • “God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things… you will abound in every good work” (2 Corinthians 9:8). Starting Today • Identify the next paycheck, hour, or decision and mark off the first portion for the Lord. • Celebrate His faithfulness each time He multiplies what remains, just as surely as He accepted Israel’s baskets at the altar. |
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