How does Nehemiah 10:36 emphasize the importance of firstfruits in our lives? Setting the Scene • In Nehemiah 10, God’s people renew their covenant after returning from exile. • They list specific commitments, showing that genuine repentance produces concrete obedience. • Among those promises, verse 36 highlights giving the firstborn and firstfruits—an act that re-centers life on the Lord’s ownership and provision. Reading Nehemiah 10:36 “Likewise, we will bring to the house of our God—to the priests ministering in the house of our God—the firstborn of our sons and of our livestock, of our herds and flocks, as it is written in the Law.” Why Firstfruits Matter • Ownership acknowledged – God created and sustains everything (Psalm 24:1). Returning the firstborn and firstfruits affirms, “All I have is Yours.” • Priority established – Firstfruits come before anything else is used or consumed (Proverbs 3:9-10). This places the Lord first in the budget, schedule, and heart. • Faith expressed – Giving the first and best trusts God to provide the rest (Malachi 3:10). It declares faith in His ongoing provision rather than in stored resources. • Covenant obedience – Nehemiah’s generation obeys what “is written in the Law” (Exodus 13:2; Deuteronomy 26:1-10). Obedience proves love (John 14:15). • Worship demonstrated – Firstfruits are an act of worship, not a tax. Offering the best animals and produce celebrates God’s worthiness (Romans 12:1). Practical Implications for Us Today • Finances – Set aside the first portion of every paycheck for the Lord’s work before any other expense. • Time – Begin each day in Scripture and prayer, dedicating the “firstfruits” of attention. • Talents – Use gifts and abilities in service to God’s people and mission before personal gain. • Family – Like the commitment of firstborn sons, intentionally dedicate children to the Lord’s purposes (1 Samuel 1:27-28). • Work & Goals – Offer the best efforts at work and study as service to Christ, rather than giving Him leftovers (Colossians 3:23-24). Other Scriptures that Echo the Principle • Exodus 23:19 – “Bring the best of the firstfruits of your soil to the house of the LORD your God.” • Leviticus 23:10 – Initial sheaf presented before harvest could continue. • Proverbs 3:9-10 – Honoring the LORD with firstfruits leads to overflowing barns. • Matthew 6:33 – “Seek first the kingdom of God…” puts priority on God above needs. • Romans 11:16 – “If the first portion is holy, the whole batch is holy,” showing how firstfruits consecrate the rest. Summary Thoughts Nehemiah 10:36 teaches that returning the very first and best to God is not optional; it is the natural response of a covenant people who recognize His ownership, seek His honor, and trust His provision. When firstfruits shape our finances, time, and talents, we declare that God comes first and everything else follows under His blessing. |
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