How does prioritizing God with firstfruits strengthen our faith and trust in Him? Nehemiah 10:35 – Renewed Devotion through Firstfruits “We will also bring the firstfruits of our land and of every fruit tree year by year to the house of the LORD.” What firstfruits meant in Nehemiah’s day • Fresh harvest appeared, and the first portion—before anyone ate or sold anything—went straight to God’s house. • The people pledged this yearly, proving that their covenant with God reached into daily labor, income, and future security. Why giving the first strengthens faith • Declares ownership: God is recognized as the true source; “The earth is the LORD’s, and the fullness thereof” (Psalm 24:1). • Puts obedience before consumption: faith acts before sight, mirroring Hebrews 11:1. • Trains contentment: holding resources loosely quiets anxiety; “Keep your lives free from the love of money… He has said, ‘Never will I leave you’” (Hebrews 13:5). • Invites God’s blessing: Proverbs 3:9-10 promises overflowing barns and vats when honor precedes expenditure. • Keeps dependence daily: manna lessons (Exodus 16) repeat in every paycheck—God provides again tomorrow. Faith lessons from Israel’s renewal • National revival revived giving—spiritual health and generosity rise together. • Obedience was specific and measurable, guarding the commitment from fading sentiment. • Families participated “year by year,” shaping generational trust. New Testament echoes • Matthew 6:33—“Seek first the kingdom of God… and all these things will be added to you.” The principle stays, though harvests may look like salaries now. • Romans 11:16—holy first portion sanctifies the whole. • 1 Corinthians 15:20—Christ Himself is “the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep.” The resurrection secures every promise connected to firstfruits giving. Tangible ways firstfruits build trust today 1. Set aside the first percentage the moment income arrives. Automation prevents second thoughts. 2. Give to gospel-centered ministry and local church, echoing “house of the LORD.” 3. Celebrate the act—tell stories of God’s faithfulness when needs are met despite generosity. 4. Teach children by letting them sort coins: first to God, then saving, then spending. 5. Review annually, just as Nehemiah’s community pledged “year after year.” God’s promise of provision “Bring the full tithe into the storehouse… and try Me in this,” says the LORD of Hosts, “and see if I will not open the windows of heaven and pour out for you blessing without measure.” (Malachi 3:10) Prioritizing God with firstfruits shifts dependence from visible resources to the unseen yet unfailing Provider. As obedience meets promise, faith matures, and trust deepens—just as it did for the restored people of Nehemiah’s day. |
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