Together - Daily DevotionalSample

First fruits

Reading: Deut.26:1-11

Key Verse: “He brought us to this place and gave us this land, a land flowing with milk and honey; and now I bring the firstfruits of the soil that you, O Lord, have given me” verses 9-10

In the OT we read of a number of religious ceremonies and rituals including a practice that was referred to as “firstfruits.” God was concerned that when the Israelites came into the Promised Land they would forget their origins as slaves in Egypt and how He had rescued them (Deut.8). Instead they would replace gratitude with pride that they alone were responsible for the wealthy lifestyle they enjoyed (Deut.8:17). It was not so much that God wanted their appreciation but more that He knew such an attitude would leave them vulnerable to idolatry and self exaltation that would weaken and eventually destroy them.

The ceremony of firstfruits would cause them to remember the Lord and how He and He alone was responsible for the blessings they now experienced. Remembrance would lead to reinforcement and renewal of their covenant commitment to Him. When we bring an offering to God it is a token of remembrance and thanksgiving for His blessings on our lives. We have been rescued from the dominion of darkness and brought into the kingdom of his dear Son who is the firstfruits of our redemption (1 Cor.15:20-23).

To “seek first the kingdom of God” is to remember we owe him everything.

Prayer: Lord I acknowledge I owe You everything through my salvation in Jesus