Upon taking over and settling in the Promised Land, the Israelites are to make an offering of their firstfruits. They confess to the priest what God has done. Then the Israelites declare to the LORD what he has done for them, including bringing them out of slavery by his mighty hand and into a land flowing with milk and honey. The basket is then placed before God, and the people bow down before him. Offering their firstfruits was a practical act of thanksgiving for what God had done and faith that he would continue to provide.

The tithe given in the third year is for those who had less or had difficult life circumstances. The offering is made in obedience to God. It, too, is given in faith, believing God will continue to bless his people when they obey him. Do you generously offer to God with gratitude and faith? Will you give to others and trust God to meet all your needs?

Generous giving and heartfelt obedience to God are marks of God's people. By receiving Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, we become children of God and his treasured possession. Our response to this great grace is to love and obey God (Jn 14:15). May we listen to God, obey his commands, and grow to be a people holy to the LORD our God.


Application: Father, thank you for declaring that we are your people. Help us to obey you and generously offer out of love and thanksgiving.
One Word: Obey and give with a thankful heart