In what ways can we honor God with our "firstfruits" in modern times? Key Verse “Honor the LORD with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your harvest.” – Proverbs 3:9 What Firstfruits Meant in Scripture • The very first portion of every harvest or increase was dedicated to God (Exodus 23:19; Deuteronomy 26:10). • It was a tangible declaration that everything belonged to Him and that He would be trusted for the rest. • Jesus is called “the firstfruits” of the resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:20), showing that the concept reaches beyond crops to every arena of life. Why Firstfruits Still Matter • God’s ownership of all we have has not changed (Psalm 24:1). • Honoring Him first positions our hearts in humility and gratitude (Romans 11:16). • The promise of provision remains: “Bring the whole tithe… see if I will not open the windows of heaven” (Malachi 3:10). Modern Ways to Offer Our Firstfruits • Income: The first portion of every paycheck, bonus, or unexpected gain cheerfully given to gospel work and practical mercy. • Time: Structuring schedule so the first, best part of the day goes to Scripture intake, worship, and undistracted prayer. • Talents: Committing initial creative energy and professional skill to serve in the local church or community before pursuing personal projects. • Harvests & Investments: Dedicating the first yield from business ventures, dividends, or sales to Kingdom purposes. • Milestones: Beginning each new season (job, marriage, school year) with intentional generosity and consecration. • Household Produce: Gardeners, farmers, and hobbyists joyfully sharing the first pick with neighbors or food ministries as a witness to God’s abundance. Practical Steps to Live It Out 1. Calculate or set aside the first fraction rather than the leftover fraction of every increase. 2. Automate giving where possible, reducing the chance of forgetfulness. 3. Keep a written record of God’s provision and the blessings that follow obedience, strengthening faith for future acts of generosity. 4. Involve family members—especially children—in deciding where firstfruits offerings go, building a legacy of trust in God. 5. Celebrate testimonies of God’s faithfulness, echoing Israel’s joyful presentations in Deuteronomy 26. Blessings God Associates with Firstfruits • Material sufficiency: “Your barns will be filled with plenty and your vats will overflow with new wine” (Proverbs 3:10). • Spiritual vitality: Giving first sharpens dependence on the Father and freedom from materialism (Luke 16:11–13). • Eternal impact: Resources released early accelerate gospel advance and compassionate reach (2 Corinthians 9:6–11). • Anticipation of Christ’s return: Living as firstfruits ourselves (James 1:18) keeps us watchful and mission-minded. Honoring God with firstfruits today is simply choosing, at every new increase or beginning, to say, “Lord, You come first.” As we do, He delights to pour out provision, joy, and eternal fruit that far surpass whatever we place in His hands. |
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