How does Nehemiah 10:35 emphasize the importance of firstfruits in our lives? Setting the scene in Nehemiah 10:35 “We also assumed responsibility for bringing to the house of the Lord each year the firstfruits of our land and of every fruit tree.” (Nehemiah 10:35) • After the exile, Judah’s leaders put their signatures on a covenant to obey God’s Law. • Among their promises, verse 35 stands out: they committed to bring the first produce of every harvest—grain, fruit, and more—to God’s house. • This was not a token gesture; it was a public declaration that the Lord owned everything and came first in every sphere of life. what firstfruits meant in israel • The “firstfruits” (Hebrew rešît) were the initial, best portion of any harvest. • Leviticus 23:10–14 and Exodus 23:19 instructed the people to present these earliest yields to the priests before eating or selling any of the rest. • Giving firstfruits demonstrated gratitude, trust, and an expectation of God’s continued provision. why firstfruits matter to God 1. Ownership — Psalm 24:1 reminds us, “The earth is the Lord’s, and the fullness thereof.” Bringing firstfruits visibly acknowledged His rightful ownership. 2. Priority — Proverbs 3:9-10: “Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your harvest; then your barns will be filled with plenty.” First things reveal true priorities. 3. Holiness — Ezekiel 44:30 calls firstfruits a “blessing” resting on the house of the giver. What is offered first is set apart, making the rest holy (Romans 11:16). 4. Anticipation — The first portion was a pledge of the full harvest still to come (cf. Romans 8:23; James 1:18). how Nehemiah 10:35 speaks to believers today • God still claims first place in every believer’s time, talents, and treasure (Matthew 6:33). • Our “firstfruits” now include: – Income: the first allocation in any budget (Malachi 3:10). – Time: daily, weekly, yearly rhythms that begin with God—morning devotions, Lord’s Day worship, and annual seasons of reflection. – Abilities: using spiritual gifts for ministry before personal advancement (1 Peter 4:10). – Relationships: seeking God-honoring decisions in family and friendships before pursuing personal desires. practical ways to live out firstfruits • Set up automated giving or deliberate envelopes so the first withdrawal supports gospel work. • Schedule the day so Scripture and prayer open the morning rather than fill a leftover slot. • When income increases, decide the new giving percentage before buying new comforts. • Teach children to separate “give, save, spend” piles whenever they receive money. • At harvest, bonus, or tax-refund time, consecrate the first share to missions or benevolence. • Celebrate milestones (promotion, graduation) with an offering of thanks before a self-focused party. encouraging promises linked to firstfruits • “Test Me in this,” says the Lord Almighty, “and see if I will not open for you the floodgates of heaven” (Malachi 3:10). • Jesus Himself is called “the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep” (1 Corinthians 15:20); His resurrection guarantees ours. • Sowing bountifully brings a bountiful harvest—spiritually and materially (2 Corinthians 9:6-11). closing thoughts Nehemiah 10:35 reminds us that the practice of firstfruits is far more than an ancient agricultural rule. It is an enduring principle that places God first, sanctifies the remainder, and invites His abundant blessing. When we joyfully offer the best and the first of everything, we echo the restored people of Israel and declare with our lives: “The Lord is worthy of it all.” |
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