In what ways can we prioritize God in our financial and spiritual practices? Opening scripture focus “From the first of your dough you are to present an offering to the LORD; you are to present an offering from the first of your grain.” (Numbers 15:20) What firstfruits teach us • God receives the initial portion, not the leftovers. • The act is worship: recognizing His ownership, our stewardship, and His faithful provision. • Giving the first and best trains the heart to trust rather than to hoard. Financial priorities: honoring God with resources • Set aside the first 10 percent—or whatever amount you purpose—to Him before paying any other bill (Proverbs 3:9-10; Malachi 3:10). • Move generosity from “optional” to “non-negotiable” by scheduling automatic transfers or handwritten checks as soon as income arrives. • Budget with giving at the top line, not the bottom line; everything else follows. • Look for Spirit-prompted offerings beyond the tithe (2 Corinthians 9:6-8) to missionaries, local churches, and people in need. • Avoid debt that compromises the freedom to give (Romans 13:8). Spiritual priorities: giving God the first of our time and attention • Begin each day with Scripture and prayer before scrolling news or email (Mark 1:35). • Dedicate the first day of the week to gathered worship and rest (Hebrews 10:24-25; Exodus 20:8-11). • Seek His kingdom first in every decision—career, relationships, calendar (Matthew 6:33). • Treat talents and spiritual gifts as “firstfruits” to be offered in service, not merely personal gain (1 Peter 4:10-11). Practical steps to live the firstfruits principle today 1. Calculate your income and decide the percentage you will give up front. 2. Automate the transfer or write the check immediately when paid. 3. Review your budget monthly: if spending crowds out giving, adjust spending, not giving. 4. Schedule daily “first moments” with God—set an alarm, place a Bible where you brew coffee. 5. Volunteer early in the week or month so service does not become what’s left after everything else. 6. Teach children to set aside first coins or dollars for the Lord to ingrain the habit early. Promises connected to firstfruits obedience • Overflowing barns and vats—God supplies more than enough (Proverbs 3:10). • Open windows of heaven—He rebukes the devourer and pours out blessing (Malachi 3:10-11). • Cheerful giving yields multiplied harvests of righteousness (2 Corinthians 9:6-11). • Hearts anchored in heaven, free from slavery to money (Matthew 6:21; Luke 12:34). The first-dough offering may feel ancient, yet its heartbeat remains current: give God the first and best in finances and in spirit, and watch Him fill the rest with His faithful abundance. |
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