First and Best: Honoring the Lord With What We Have

By Romina Chevren

"Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops."—Proverbs 3:9 (NIV)

Do you remember what it felt like as a child to be called first for a piece of candy or a slice of cake? That rush of excitement, the feeling of being special, and the joy of receiving the first, freshest piece? It wasn’t just about the treat—it was about the honor. Being chosen first made us feel valued and loved.

In Proverbs 3:9, we’re reminded to give that same honor to God—not with cake or candy, but with the “firstfruits” of our lives. In ancient times, these were the best and earliest parts of the harvest, set aside for the Lord as an act of worship. For us, this means prioritizing God above all else and offering Him the best of our time, resources, and energy.

But why does God ask for our first and best? Because giving Him the firstfruits reflects our love and trust. Just as being chosen first filled us with joy as children, honoring God first shows Him that He holds the most important place in our hearts. It’s a way of saying, “Lord, You are worthy of my best because You have given me everything.”

This act also reflects gratitude. Think about it—did we ever hesitate to share our excitement when we got the first slice of cake? We wanted others to know how good it was! In the same way, when we honor God with the first and best of our lives, it flows from a heart that recognizes His goodness and wants to celebrate Him.

Of course, trusting God with our firstfruits can be challenging. Life pulls at us with demands and distractions. Sometimes we want to hold on tightly to our time, money, or abilities, worrying that there might not be enough. Yet, just as we trusted that there would always be more cake to go around, we can trust that God will supply all our needs. Verse 10 assures us of His provision: "Then your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over with new wine."

When we give God our first and best, we’re stepping into the joy and freedom of putting Him first. It’s like saying, “Here, Lord, have the first slice—it’s Yours, because You’re the reason I have anything at all.”

What are the “firstfruits” in your life today? Is it your time, energy, talents, or finances? Are you offering them to God with the same excitement and honor you felt as a child receiving the first piece of cake?

Pause:

• Take a moment to reflect on how you feel when someone values you by offering you the first or the best of what they have. Do you approach God in the same way, eager to give Him your best?
• What are the “firstfruits” in your life today? Is it your time, energy, talents, or finances? Are you offering them to God with the same excitement and honor you felt as a child receiving the first piece of cake?
• Consider areas where you might be holding back from offering your "firstfruits" to God.

Practice:

1. Reprioritize: Choose one area of your life—time, finances, or talents—and commit to offering the first and best to God this week.
2. Celebrate God’s Goodness: Start a gratitude journal where you note ways God has provided for you daily. Use this as a reminder of His faithfulness when it’s hard to trust.
3. Be a Blessing: Find a tangible way to bless someone else—offer help, encouragement, or generosity. Let your actions reflect God’s love and provision in your life.

Pray: Lord, You are worthy of my first and my best. Forgive me for the times I’ve placed other things ahead of You. Teach me to trust You fully, knowing that You are my Provider. Help me to give joyfully and generously, offering the best of what I have as an act of worship. Thank You for Your faithfulness, and let my life be a reflection of Your goodness and grace. Amen.