How can we apply the principle of firstfruits in our daily giving? Setting the Scene: Deuteronomy 26:10 “Now I have brought the first of the fruits of the land You, LORD, have given me” (Deuteronomy 26:10a). Israel’s worshiper physically placed the earliest produce before God, declaring, “Everything that follows belongs to You too.” What Firstfruits Signified Then • Recognition that harvest—and life itself—comes from the Lord • Joyful gratitude expressed immediately, not eventually • Trust that the rest of the crop would arrive under God’s blessing • An act of public witness: everyone saw who supplied their needs Translating Firstfruits to Today The principle still pulses beneath our paycheck stubs, calendars, and cupboards. Firstfruits giving means: • Giving to God first, not from leftovers • Giving the best, not what we can’t use • Giving in faith, believing more will follow as He provides Practical Ways to Give Our First and Best Money – As soon as income shows up, set aside the tithe or offering before paying any bill (cf. Proverbs 3:9). – Automate giving so the “first transfer” belongs to God. Time – Offer the first minutes of each day in Scripture and worship. – Dedicate the first day of the week to gathering with the church (see 1 Corinthians 16:2a). Talents & Opportunities – When a new project or promotion surfaces, ask how it can first serve Christ’s kingdom. – Give prime creative energy, not only the scraps of fatigue. Possessions – When groceries or a garden harvest arrive, set aside a portion for a neighbor or food bank. – With any new purchase, consider if something gently used can be released to bless another. Heart Checks That Keep Firstfruits Fresh • Is gratitude pushing my giving, or guilt? • Does my budget show God gets priority? • Am I trusting His supply, or clinging in fear? • Do my sacrifices point others to His generosity? Encouragement from Other Scriptures • “Honor the LORD with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your harvest.” (Proverbs 3:9) • “Bring the full tithe into the storehouse… see if I will not open the windows of heaven” (Malachi 3:10a). • “As soon as the order was issued, the Israelites gave in abundance the firstfruits” (2 Chronicles 31:5a). A Lifestyle of Expectant Gratitude Firstfruits giving threads thanksgiving, trust, and testimony into everyday life. When we hand God the first and finest, we echo ancient worshipers, announcing to the watching world—and to our own hearts—that every good gift still comes from His faithful hand. |
    |