The First Fruits Principle: Giving God Our Best(The heart of giving)

The Bible teaches us the importance of honoring God with the first and best of what we have. This principle, known as the "first fruits," is deeply rooted in scripture and serves as a reminder of God’s provision and our trust in Him. It’s a beautiful way to express gratitude, faith, and devotion. Let’s explore what the Bible says about first fruits and how it applies to modern giving.

What Are First Fruits?

In biblical times, the concept of first fruits referred to the first portion of the harvest that was dedicated to God. The Israelites were instructed to bring the best and first of their crops, livestock, and produce to honor God and acknowledge His blessings.

Proverbs 3:9-10 captures this principle beautifully:
“Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops; then your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over with new wine.”

This act of giving wasn’t just about material offerings; it was about trusting God to provide for their needs and showing gratitude for His goodness.

How the First Fruits Principle Applies Today

Though most of us aren’t farmers bringing literal crops to the altar, the principle of giving God our first and best still applies. Today, first fruits can mean offering the first portion of our income, time, or resources to God.

1. Our Finances
   The first fruits principle challenges us to prioritize God in our finances. This means setting aside the first portion of our earnings for Him before addressing other expenses. It’s an act of faith, trusting that He will meet our needs as promised in His Word.

2. Our Time and Talents
   Beyond finances, first fruits can also apply to how we use our time and abilities. Are we giving God the best of our energy, creativity, and effort, or just what’s left over after everything else?

3. Our Worship
   First fruits also extend to our worship. Starting each day with prayer and time in God’s Word is a way to honor Him with the "first" moments of our lives.

Biblical Examples of First Fruits Giving

The Bible provides several examples of individuals and nations practicing the first fruits principle:

• Abel’s Offering: In Genesis 4:4, Abel brought the firstborn of his flock as an offering to the Lord. His sacrifice was pleasing to God because it came from a sincere and generous heart.
• The Israelites’ Harvest Offering: Leviticus 23:10-11 instructed the Israelites to bring the first sheath of their harvest to the priest as an offering, symbolizing their dependence on God’s provision.
• Jesus as the First Fruits: In 1 Corinthians 15:20, Paul refers to Jesus as the "firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep," highlighting His resurrection as the first and best of what God has given us.

The Blessings of First Fruits Giving

The Bible assures us that when we honor God with our first and best, He blesses us abundantly. Proverbs 3:10 promises that our "barns will be filled to overflowing" when we follow this principle.

This doesn’t always mean material wealth, but it does mean experiencing God’s favor, peace, and provision in every area of life. As Jesus said in Matthew 6:33:
“But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”

Practical Steps to Practice First Fruits Giving

1. Set God as Your Priority
   Dedicate the first portion of your income, time, and energy to God before anything else. This might mean tithing the moment you receive your paycheck or starting your day with prayer and scripture.

2. Give with a Grateful Heart
   First fruits giving is an act of worship, not obligation. Approach it with a heart full of gratitude for all that God has done.

3. Trust in God’s Provision
   Giving your first fruits can feel challenging, especially when resources are tight. But remember, God promises to provide abundantly for those who trust Him.

4. Reevaluate Regularly
   Take time to reflect on whether you’re giving God your best in every area of your life—finances, time, talents, and worship.

Conclusion: Honoring God with Our First and Best

The first fruits principle is more than a financial practice; it’s a lifestyle of honoring God with our best. It’s about recognizing Him as the source of all we have and trusting Him to provide for our needs.

As we embrace this principle in modern times, we not only experience God’s blessings but also grow deeper in faith and gratitude. Let’s strive to give God the first and best of all we have, reflecting the heart of worship He desires.

“But who am I, and who are my people, that we should be able to give as generously as this? Everything comes from You, and we have given You only what comes from Your hand.” – 1 Chronicles 29:14