How can we dedicate our "firstborn" blessings to God in daily life? The Original Command: God Owns the Firstborn “Consecrate to Me every firstborn, the first offspring of every womb among the Israelites, both man and beast; they belong to Me.” (Exodus 13:2) What Our “Firstborn” Blessings Look Like Today • Children—especially the first child entrusted to us • Initial income from a new job or venture • First harvest, commission, bonus, or raise • First hours of each day, week, and year • First successes, talents, and opportunities God opens Foundational Principles for Dedication • Ownership: God claims first rights (Numbers 18:15; Psalm 24:1). • Redemption: Every firstborn of Israel was redeemed by a sacrifice, pointing to Christ (Luke 2:22-23). • Priority: “Honor the LORD with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your harvest.” (Proverbs 3:9) • Living sacrifice: “Offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God.” (Romans 12:1) Practical Ways to Offer Our Firstborn Blessings • Presenting Children – Publicly dedicate your child in church. – Pray daily that the child fulfills God’s calling. – Model wholehearted obedience so the child’s life stays set apart. • Tithing and Beyond – Give the first portion of every paycheck before other expenses. – When a windfall comes, set aside a “firstborn” amount for kingdom work. • Beginning Each Day with God – Rise a little earlier to read Scripture, worship, and listen. – Speak any planned commitments aloud to the Lord before acting. • First Moments of New Seasons – At the start of a school term, new job, or project, pause to thank God and invite His direction. – Mark anniversaries or birthdays by recounting His faithfulness and realigning goals with His Word. • Celebrating Achievements – Redirect praise to Christ when commended (James 1:17). – Use the first fruits of success—time, influence, or finances—to bless others in Jesus’ name. Guarding the Heart While We Dedicate • Reject the temptation to keep the best for self (Malachi 1:8). • Guard against mechanical giving; God desires willing hearts (2 Corinthians 9:7). • Remain alert to pride—remember God produces every blessing (Deuteronomy 8:17-18). Anticipating God’s Faithful Response • He multiplies what is surrendered (John 6:11-13). • He sets His favor on homes that honor Him first (Deuteronomy 28:1-2). • He deepens our assurance that all we steward—present and future—belongs to Him and is secure in His hands. |
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