Good morning!
Text: Deuteronomy 23-26; Psalm 47
Deuteronomy 26 opens with the LORD’s commandments regarding “first fruits,” the first and the best of the produce of the land which the LORD has given His people. The people are to take their first fruits, place them in a basket, make a special pronouncement to the LORD. Then, in verses 26:10-11 we read,
” And you shall set it down before the Lord your God and worship before the Lord your God. And you shall rejoice in all the good that the Lord your God has given to you and to your house…”
Our giving is an act of worship. What’s more, our generous giving to the LORD is a source of joy, and a reminder of all the good He has given to us. Some folks might think that when they give to the LORD it is a negative thing, an obligation or duty which hurts. After all, “we worked hard for that money.” But the reality is it all came from Him, and when we offer it in our outstretched, open hand, we experience joy. I know this to be true as I have watched our brothers and sisters who generously give to support missions or to help people in need. They all smile and get animated when they speak of the work of the LORD they were able to have a part in. Don’t miss the blessing, and bring your first fruits and set them before our great God and King..
in Him, Mike