Proverbs 3:9 (KJV) “Honour the LORD with thy substance, and with the firstfruits of all thine increase.”
Doing “first things first” includes honouring God with the first and best of our time, strength, and resources. Though, our Scriptural text is primarily about giving to God, the command to honour the LORD goes beyond giving. Now, giving is not a transaction; it is an act of worship that declares God’s lordship over our lives and resources. In biblical times, the first and best portion of the harvest was offered to God before personal use. This teaches the principle of putting God first, not giving Him what remains after expenses are settled. The reward for honouring God with our firstfruits and our substance is seen in Proverbs 3:10 – “Then every dimension of your life will overflow with blessings ...” (TPT).
Firstfruits, as an expression of priority and honour for God, can mean: The first income of a new job, the first salary of the year, or the first increase from promotion, bonus, or new stream of income. Honouring God with your firstfruits can be applied at the point of receiving your salary (for salary earners). As soon as your salary is received (or even budgeted), you set aside God’s portion first. This may be done immediately via transfer before any bills are paid. Caution: There is no legalism in giving of your firstfruits. Prayerfully decide which one to practice. Guard against extremes. Firstfruits is less about the amount and more about the order. Let it be a covenant relationship between you and the El Shaddai. Praise God!
Written by: Andrew A. Esemudje