Opening Verse
“Honor the Lord with thy substance, and with the firstfruits of all thine increase.” – Proverbs 3:9 (KJV)
Introduction
The concept of “first fruits” goes beyond material offerings—it’s about giving God our very best in every aspect of life. This principle reflects our acknowledgment of God as the source of all blessings and our gratitude for His provision.
Devotional Story
Rachel was a farmer’s daughter who loved the beauty of her family’s land. Each year, her family celebrated the harvest by setting aside the first portion for God. Before anything else was enjoyed or sold, they would gather their best produce, pray, and bring it to their church as an offering.
One year, a storm devastated their crops, and the harvest was meager. Rachel’s father, however, insisted they honor their commitment to God by giving the first and best portion of what remained. The family prayed, thanking God for His faithfulness despite their challenges.
Weeks later, a neighboring farmer, touched by their faithfulness, gifted them seeds and resources to prepare for the next planting season. The following year’s harvest was abundant. Rachel realized that their act of giving their first fruits, even in hardship, was a declaration of trust in God’s provision.
What This Means
Giving God the “first fruits” of our time, talents, and resources isn’t just an ancient agricultural practice; it’s a principle of prioritizing God in all we do. When we give God our best, we declare our trust in His ability to supply all our needs. It’s an act of worship, gratitude, and faith.
Think About This
- What is your “first fruit” today—your time, energy, or resources?
- How can you prioritize God in your daily life and decisions?
- Are you holding back something that belongs to God?
Prayer
Lord, thank You for being the giver of every good and perfect gift. Help me to honor You with my first fruits, giving You the best of my time, energy, and resources. Teach me to trust in Your provision and to live with a heart full of gratitude. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Closing Verse
“And the first of all the firstfruits of all things, and every oblation of all, of every sort of your oblations, shall be the priest’s: ye shall also give unto the priest the first of your dough, that he may cause the blessing to rest in thine house.” – Ezekiel 44:30 (KJV)